Bitter melon, also known as bitter gourd, is a powerful vegetable known for its unique taste and impressive health benefits. Frequently used in Asian cuisine, its slightly bitter flavor might seem an acquired taste, but when prepared properly, it becomes a delicious and nutritious addition to your meals.
One of the most popular ways to enjoy bitter melon is by stir-frying it with eggs, which balances the bitterness of the melon with the softness and richness of the eggs. Now, let’s dive into how to make bitter melon stir fry with eggs, step by step.
1. Bitter Melon Stir Fry With Eggs
Ingredients
- 2 medium bitter melons
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Soy sauce (optional, for seasoning)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bitter Melon
Cut the bitter melons lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and pith. Discard the seeds and pith, as these intensify the bitterness.
Slice the bitter melon into thin half-moons, about ¼-inch thick. The thinner slices will cook more evenly and help reduce the intensity of the bitter taste. Next, rinse the slices under cold water and drain.
Step 2: Boil the Bitter Melon
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the sliced bitter melon and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This process will significantly reduce the bitterness while keeping the bitter melon tender yet firm. After boiling, drain the bitter melon and set the slices aside.
Step 3: Beat the Eggs
While the bitter melon is boiling, prepare the eggs:
In a small bowl, crack the 3 large eggs and beat them lightly with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to season the eggs. Keep the beaten eggs nearby, ready to be added to the pan.
Step 4: Stir Fry the Bitter Melon With Eggs
Now that the bitter melon is prepped and the eggs are ready, it’s time to stir fry
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden.
Next, add the boiled bitter melon slices to the pan then pour the beaten eggs over the bitter melon. Mix eggs with the bitter melon slices, stirring everything together. Continue cooking for another 3 – 4 minutes until the eggs are fully cooked and blended with the bitter melon. Season with a little salt, pepper, and a dash of soy sauce
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the stir fry from the heat and transfer it to a serving dish. For added flavor and presentation, you can garnish the dish with chopped green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red chili flakes on top.
This bitter melon stir fry with eggs pairs perfectly with steamed white rice or can be served on its own as a quick and easy meal.
2. Tips for Best Bitter Melon Stir Fry With Eggs
While the dish is straightforward, a few tips can help you achieve the best flavor and texture:
Boiling Before Stir Frying is Essential: Boiling the bitter melon for 15 minutes before stir-frying significantly reduces its bitterness while keeping the texture tender. Skipping this step may result in a more intense bitter flavor, which can be overwhelming for some.
Use Fresh Bitter Melon: Choose bitter melons that are firm and bright green. Avoid those that appear yellowing or soft, as they tend to be overly bitter and less fresh.
Season Lightly: The simplicity of this dish allows the flavor of the bitter melon and eggs to shine, so you don’t need to overpower it with too many seasonings. A little salt, pepper, and soy sauce go a long way in balancing the dish. If you find the bitterness too strong, adding a pinch of sugar can help offset it.
Cook Eggs Softly: The eggs should be soft and slightly creamy to complement the slightly firm texture of the bitter melon. Avoid overcooking the eggs, as they will continue to cook slightly while being mixed with the bitter melon.
3. Health Benefits of Bitter Melon
Bitter melon is not only a flavorful addition to meals but also a highly nutritious vegetable with numerous health benefits. It is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, folate, and antioxidants, which help boost the immune system and fight inflammation.
One of the most well-known benefits of bitter melon is its potential to help regulate blood sugar levels. Traditional medicine has long used bitter melon as a natural remedy for managing diabetes. It contains compounds that may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood glucose levels.
Additionally, bitter melon is low in calories and high in fiber, making it an excellent choice for those looking to support digestive health or manage their weight.
Bitter melon stir fry with eggs is a simple, nutritious dish that combines the slightly bitter taste of bitter melon with the soft, creamy texture of scrambled eggs. Boiling the bitter melon first helps reduce its bitterness, making the dish more palatable, especially for those unfamiliar with this unique vegetable. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, this stir fry can be prepared in under 30 minutes and makes for a healthy, delicious meal.