Asians > Stir Fries > Bitter Melons

Bitter Melon Stir Fry Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 medium-sized bitter melons
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 cup water

Special Equipment Needed:
- Wok or large skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Wash and cut the bitter melons in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and then cut into thin slices.
2. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the bitter melon slices and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
5. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, white pepper, and water. Stir-fry for 3 minutes.
6. Serve hot.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 minutes
Temperature: Medium-high heat
Serving Size: 4

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 90
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Vegetable oil: Canola oil or olive oil
- Soy sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos
- Sugar: Honey or maple syrup

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of diced onion for additional flavor.
- Add 1/2 cup of diced bell pepper for additional color.
- Add 1/2 cup of diced mushrooms for additional texture.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cut the bitter melon slices evenly so that they cook evenly.
- If the stir-fry starts to get too dry, add a few tablespoons of water to help create a sauce.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve over steamed white rice or quinoa.

Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds.

Pairings:
Pair with steamed vegetables or a side of edamame.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Steamed white rice
- Quinoa
- Steamed vegetables
- Edamame

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the stir-fry is too dry, add a few tablespoons of water to help create a sauce.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to wash the bitter melon before cutting and cooking.

Food History:
Bitter melon is a popular vegetable in Asian cuisine and has been used for centuries.

Flavor Profiles:
Bitter melon has a unique flavor that is slightly bitter and slightly sweet.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a side dish or as part of a stir-fry.

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Region: Chinese

Taste: Spicy, Savory, Tangy, Bitter, Umami