**Steamed Stuffed Bitter Melon: A Symphony of Flavors and Health Benefits**
Discover the culinary delight of steamed stuffed bitter melon, a traditional Chinese dish that tantalizes taste buds with its unique blend of bitterness, sweetness, and umami. This healthy and flavorful dish is not only a treat for the palate but also a treasure trove of nutrients, boasting an impressive array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The bitterness of the melon is perfectly balanced by the savory filling, typically made with a combination of minced pork, shrimp, and aromatic herbs. Steaming preserves the melon's vibrant green color and crisp texture, while infusing it with the delectable flavors of the stuffing. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish, and is sure to impress even the most discerning palate. In this article, we present a collection of steamed stuffed bitter melon recipes, each offering a unique take on this classic dish. From traditional Cantonese-style preparations to innovative fusion variations, these recipes cater to a wide range of culinary preferences. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, you'll find a recipe here to suit your skills and tastes. So, embark on this culinary adventure and discover the wonders of steamed stuffed bitter melon, a dish that is both delicious and good for you.
STEAMED STUFFED BITTER MELON
My research indicates that this recipe originated with Chef Ken Hom. It was pubished in his excellent (out of print) book Chinese Technique, which deserves republication. It is one of my favorite things, and I always make it when I can find bitter melons. They are not always easy to find. Try it, you will like it.
Provided by Lloyd-Fred
Categories Melons
Time 1h
Yield 2 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 20
Steps:
- PREP:.
- Finely mince the water chestnuts.
- Trim the ends off the bitter melons ans slice into 1 inch slices.
- Using a small paring knife, carefully cut out the pulp and seeds in the center of each slive, leaving onlu the melon wall.
- Rub the inside of each slice with coating of cornstarch.
- METHOD:.
- the slices:.
- Combine all of the stuffing ingredients in a large bowl.
- Mix them thoroughly using freshly washed hands.
- Rub more starch into the inner surfce of each slice of bitter melon, then stuff the cavity of each slive with a generous spoonful of stuffing, enough to completely fill the cavity.
- As the slices are stuffed, arrange them on a plate and set the plate in a steamer with water coming within an inch of the plate Cover and steam for 20 minutes.
- Arrange hte coked slices on a serving plats, reserving the juices on the plate for the sauce.
- the sauce:.
- In a separate wok or pan, heat 2 T.
- peanut oil, add the garlic and black beans, then stir fry for a minute or two, then add the Shaoxing wine, chicken stock and salt.
- Add the reserved juices from the steaming of the melon slices.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Thicken with the dissolved cornstarch and flavor eith sesame oil.
- Pur sauce over bitter melon and serve with white rice.
STEAMED STUFFED BITTER MELON
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- 1. Soak fermented black beans. 2. Mince pork and garlic. Mash soaked beans and add to meat along with soy sauce, sherry and salt. Blend in well. 3. Cut bitter melons lengthwise in half. With a spoon, scoop out the seeds and spongy white pulp at the center. Stuff with meat mixture. 4. Arrange bitter melon, stuffing-side up, on a heatproof dish. Steam until done (about 30 minutes). See HOW-TO, _Steaming. VARIATION: * For the pork stuffing, substitute 1/2 pound fish fillets, 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon sugar and 1/8 cup water blended together. The Thousand Recipe Chinese Cookbook. ©1994 by Gloria Bley Miller.
Nutrition Facts : Nutritional Facts Serves
Tips:
- To easily remove the bitter melon's bitter taste, use a spoon to scrape out the white pith and seeds from the center of the melon. You can also blanch the bitter melon in boiling water for a few minutes before stuffing and steaming.
- For a more flavorful filling, try using a combination of ground pork, shrimp, and vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and mushrooms.
- To prevent the bitter melon from bursting while steaming, use a toothpick or skewer to poke a few holes in the melon before stuffing.
- Serve the steamed stuffed bitter melon with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil.
Conclusion:
Steamed stuffed bitter melon is a delicious and healthy dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. The bitter melon is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. The filling provides protein and additional nutrients. This dish is also low in calories and fat, making it a good choice for those who are watching their weight.
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