bitter gourd slices

How to Make Bitter Melon with Pork: A Step-by-Step Guide

Bitter melon with pork is a popular Asian dish loved for its unique balance of bitter, savory, and umami flavors. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to guide you.

Ingredients:

- 1 medium bitter melon, sliced and soaked in saltwater

- 200g pork loin, thinly sliced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tsp oyster sauce

- ½ tsp sugar

- 1 tbsp cooking oil

- Optional: Red chili for heat, sesame seeds for garnish

Steps:

1. Prep the bitter melon: Slice the bitter melon in half, scoop out the seeds, and cut into thin half-moons. Soak in saltwater for 15 minutes to reduce bitterness, then rinse and drain.

2. Marinate the pork: Mix pork slices with 1 tsp soy sauce, a pinch of cornstarch, and 1 tsp oil. Let sit for 10 minutes.

3. Stir-fry: Heat oil in a wok over high heat. Stir-fry pork until no longer pink, then remove. In the same wok, sauté garlic until fragrant, add bitter melon, and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes.

4. Combine: Return pork to the wok. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and a splash of water. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until sauce thickens.

5. Serve: Garnish with chili or sesame seeds. Enjoy hot with rice!

This dish is quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. Adjust bitterness by soaking the melon longer or blanching it briefly. Enjoy your homemade bitter melon with pork!