Bitter melon, known for its distinctive bitterness, is a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Often overlooked due to its strong flavor, this versatile vegetable offers a surprisingly delightful culinary experience when prepared correctly. This recipe transforms the often-feared bitter melon into a vibrant and flavorful stir-fry, perfectly balancing its natural bitterness with sweet and savory notes. We'll enhance its appeal with the satisfying texture of glass noodles and the richness of egg, creating a dish that's both healthy and incredibly satisfying.
Forget everything you thought you knew about bitter melon. This recipe is designed to make even the most hesitant cook fall in love with this underestimated vegetable. We'll guide you through each step, from expertly preparing the bitter melon to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in this delicious stir-fry. Ready to discover a new favorite dish? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Spoon
Ingredients
- Bitter melon: 1 small
- Glass noodles: 1 small package
- Eggs: 4
- Minced pork
- Garlic
- Salt: half a pinch
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Sugar
- Vegetable oil
- Seasoning powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Blanch Bitter Melon
- Cut off the ends, halve it, and remove the seeds. Use a spoon to scrape off the white part inside to reduce bitterness. Wash thoroughly.
- Cut the bitter melon into 3-4 mm wide slices.
- Blanch the bitter melon slices in boiling water with a little salt for 1-2 minutes until the color changes. Immediately transfer to cold water to maintain crispiness.
Step 2. Stir-fry Proteins and Aromatics
- Heat oil in a pan and stir-fry 4 eggs until cooked through. Set aside.
- Add a little oil to the same pan, then add minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add minced pork and stir-fry until cooked.
Step 3. Combine and Cook Noodles
- Add glass noodles (previously soaked), bitter melon, seasoning powder, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir-fry until well combined. Add water if needed to prevent dryness.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Once the glass noodles are soft, add the cooked eggs. Stir gently to combine everything, ensuring the glass noodles don't stick together.
- Serve immediately.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Scrape off the white part of the bitter melon to reduce bitterness.
- Blanching the bitter melon helps to maintain its crispiness and reduce bitterness.
- Stir-fry the eggs separately and add them at the end to maintain their texture.
- Adjust seasoning (salt, sugar) to your preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. How do I reduce the bitterness of the bitter melon?
Salt the sliced bitter melon and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. This draws out some of the bitterness. Rinse thoroughly before cooking.
2. Can I substitute the glass noodles?
Yes! Other noodles like thin rice noodles or even cellophane noodles would work well. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the noodle type.
This Crispy Bitter Melon with Glass Noodles & Egg Stir-fry is a testament to the transformative power of simple cooking techniques. The result is a surprisingly delicious and healthy dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and delightful balance of flavors!