Bitter melon, also known as bitter gourd or karela, is a unique and flavorful vegetable that is common in Asian cuisine. Although it may not be everyone’s first choice due to its bitter taste, when cooked properly, it can be transformed into a delicious and healthy dish. In this article, we will explore the best easy white bitter melon recipe that will surely make you appreciate this often misunderstood vegetable.
White bitter melon is a variety of bitter melon that has a lighter color and milder taste compared to its green counterpart. It is less bitter and has a slightly sweet flavor, making it more palatable for those who are new to bitter melon. Here is a simple and flavorful recipe that you can try at home:
Ingredients:
– 2 white bitter melons
– 1 medium-sized onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cooking oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the bitter melon. Cut them lengthwise and remove the seeds and pith using a spoon. Slice them into thin half-moons.
2. Place the sliced bitter melon in a bowl and sprinkle salt over them. Toss gently and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps to reduce the bitterness of the melon.
3. After 10 minutes, rinse the bitter melon slices thoroughly under running water to remove the excess salt.
4. Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.
6. Now add the bitter melon slices to the pan and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they become tender.
7. Season with salt to taste and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Transfer the cooked bitter melon to a serving plate and garnish with fresh cilantro or spring onions if desired.
9. Serve hot as a side dish or with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Now, let’s move on to some commonly asked questions about cooking with white bitter melon:
Q1. How do I choose fresh white bitter melon?
A1. Look for firm, unblemished bitter melons with a bright white color. Avoid ones that are soft or have brown spots.
Q2. Can I use green bitter melon instead?
A2. Yes, you can use green bitter melon for this recipe. Just keep in mind that it will have a stronger bitter taste.
Q3. How do I reduce the bitterness of bitter melon?
A3. Sprinkling salt on the sliced bitter melon and letting it sit for a few minutes helps to reduce the bitterness. Rinse them thoroughly before cooking.
Q4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A4. Absolutely! You can add sliced bell peppers, carrots, or even tofu to make it a more substantial dish.
Q5. Is bitter melon good for health?
A5. Yes, bitter melon is packed with nutrients and has numerous health benefits. It is known to help regulate blood sugar levels and aid digestion.
Q6. Can I substitute the cooking oil with something else?
A6. Yes, you can use any cooking oil of your choice, such as olive oil or coconut oil.
Q7. How long does it take to cook bitter melon?
A7. It usually takes around 10-15 minutes to cook bitter melon until it becomes tender.
Q8. Can I make this recipe spicy?
A8. Absolutely! You can add some chili flakes or chopped chili peppers to make it spicy according to your preference.
Q9. Can I store leftovers?
A9. Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
In conclusion, white bitter melon may be an acquired taste for some, but with the right recipe, it can be transformed into a delicious and nutritious dish. Give this easy white bitter melon recipe a try and discover the wonderful flavors it has to offer.