white gourd with mushrooms

How to Cook Braised Winter Melon with Mushrooms

Braised winter melon with mushrooms is a simple, nutritious, and delicious dish, perfect for any season. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making it.

First, gather your ingredients: 500g winter melon (peeled and cut into 2cm cubes), 200g fresh shiitake mushrooms (stems removed, sliced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon cooking oil, 500ml vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and chopped green onions for garnish.

Start by heating the oil in a wok or deep pan over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the sliced mushrooms and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they soften and release their aroma. Next, toss in the winter melon cubes, coating them evenly with the garlic and mushroom mixture.

Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the soy sauce and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the winter melon turns tender and translucent. Occasionally stir gently to prevent sticking.

Once cooked, transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped green onions. For extra richness, you may drizzle a teaspoon of sesame oil before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice and offers a light, umami-rich flavor that highlights the natural sweetness of winter melon and the earthiness of mushrooms. Enjoy!