What dishes can bitter melon be paired with

Bitter gourd can be cooked with ingredients such as eggs, pork, beef, shrimp, and fermented black beans to neutralize bitterness and enhance nutritional value.

1. Eggs

Bitter melon stir fried eggs are a classic combination, and the mellow aroma of eggs can effectively mask the astringency of bitter melon. Eggs are rich in high-quality protein and lecithin, which can promote iron absorption when combined with vitamin C in bitter gourd. When cooking, first slice the bitter gourd and marinate it with salt to remove the bitter water. Then stir fry it with beaten eggs until golden brown, suitable for clearing heat and relieving summer heat.

2. Pork

Bitter melon stuffed meat or stir fried meat slices are common methods, and the fat in pork can dissolve the fat soluble nutrients in bitter melon. Choosing lean meat can avoid greasiness, and the combination of heme iron provided by pork and vitamin C from bitter gourd can help improve anemia. It is recommended to blanch the bitter gourd first to reduce its bitterness, and then stir fry it quickly with marinated meat slices.

III. Beef

Bitter gourd beef combination has the characteristics of high protein and low fat. The sarcosines in beef work together with bitter gourd polysaccharides to enhance immunity. Beef should be sliced against the grain and mixed with starch to maintain tenderness and smoothness. Bitter gourd can be paired with a little fermented black beans for freshness. This dish is suitable for fitness enthusiasts to supplement protein, but those with gastrointestinal weakness should control their consumption.

4. Shrimp

Stir fried shrimp with bitter melon has a refreshing taste, and the sweetness of the shrimp can balance the bitterness. Shrimp is rich in zinc and taurine, and together with the dietary fiber of bitter gourd, it regulates blood lipids. Suggest marinating shrimp with cooking wine in advance to remove fishy smell, slicing bitter gourd thinly and stir frying quickly to maintain crispness and tenderness, and pouring a little oyster sauce to enhance flavor before serving.

5. Douchi

Douchi bitter melon is a traditional Cantonese recipe, and the salty and fresh fermented Douchi can transform the astringency of bitter melon. Douchi contains soy isoflavones and probiotics, which work synergistically with bitter melon extract for antioxidant properties. When cooking, first stir fry the fermented black beans and minced garlic until fragrant, then add bitter melon and stir fry over high heat quickly. It is suitable for people with high blood pressure to assist in controlling salt intake.

When pairing bitter gourd, attention should be paid to physical adaptability. For those with spleen and stomach deficiency and cold, ginger slices can be added to harmonize. All combinations are recommended to control the amount of oil and salt used. Marinating or blanching bitter gourd in advance can lower the threshold for bitter taste acceptance. In summer, it is recommended to pair cold bitter gourd with tomato or lemon juice, and in winter, it is suitable for stewing with warm and nourishing meat. Special groups, such as pregnant women and patients with diabetes, should adjust their eating methods and portions under the guidance of nutritionists to avoid excessive intake affecting digestion and absorption.