Sauteed Bitter Melon (Ginisang Ampalaya) (Source: Yummy.ph)

I remember my grandmother telling me how important it is for me to eat bitter melon when I was growing up. Aside from its unique flavor, bitter melon has important health benefits, including helping to reduce blood sugar levels and lowering cholesterol. 

Dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, soy-free, vegetarian

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes

Serves 4

Ingredients

2 bitter melons

5 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil

1/2 onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tomato, finely chopped

4 large eggs, beaten

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Procedure

1. Cut the bitter melons in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Then cut into 1/4-inch slices. Set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Saute the onions for 3-5 minutes, until translucent. Add the garlic and saute until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

3. Add the tomato and saute for about 2 minutes, or until softened. Add the bitter melon and saute until tender and crisp, about 3 minutes.

4. Pour in the eggs and toss to combine with bitter melon until the eggs are set, soft, and fluffy, 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve hot on a platter.

Prep tip: When I prepare bitter melon, I wash it, rub it with rock salt, and let it sit for a few minutes to thave the salt work its magic by reducing a bit of its bitterness. Here in the United States, I have noticed the bitter melon is not as bitter as those in Asia, so I sometimes skip this process.