Description
This stir-fried dish combines tender bitter melon with fluffy scrambled eggs, seasoned with garlic, onion, and soy sauce for a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect as a main or side dish, it highlights the unique taste of bitter melon while offering a delightful balance of textures. Enjoy it hot, garnished with fresh herbs, and serve alongside rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium-sized bitter melons
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the bitter melons thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Cut the bitter melons in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and white pith with a spoon to reduce bitterness.
- Slice the bitter melons into thin half-moon shapes, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Sprinkle the sliced bitter melon with a little salt and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Crack the eggs into a mixing bowl.
- Add soy sauce, salt, and black pepper to the eggs.
- Whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and sliced onion, sauté for 1-2 minutes until the onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant.
- Add sliced bitter melon and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender but still slightly crunchy. Cook longer for a softer texture if desired.
- If using, drizzle oyster sauce over the bitter melon and stir to combine.
- Push the bitter melon mixture to one side of the skillet, creating space for the eggs.
- Pour the egg mixture into the empty side of the skillet. Let it sit for a few seconds, then gently stir with a spatula to scramble.
- Once the eggs are mostly cooked but still slightly runny, mix them with the bitter melon.
- Drizzle sesame oil over the mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until eggs are fully cooked and fluffy.
- Taste the stir-fried bitter melon and eggs, adjusting seasoning with more salt or soy sauce if needed.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
- Serve hot as a main dish or side alongside steamed rice or noodles.
- Pairs well with a cucumber salad or pickled vegetables.
- For added protein, consider incorporating cooked shrimp or tofu.
- For a spicy kick, add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili oil during cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes