Bitter Melon With Minced Pork Recipe

Ingredients

This Bitter Melon With Minced Pork recipe is a classic Chinese dish that is packed full of flavor and nutrition. To make this dish, you will need the following ingredients: 3 bitter melons, ½ pound ground pork, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon light soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. You can also add other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or bamboo shoots if desired.

Instructions

Begin by preparing the bitter melons. Slice the bitter melons into thin strips. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan. Add the bitter melons and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the melons are tender. Remove from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add the ground pork and cook until the pork is no longer pink. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the oyster sauce, light soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch and stir until the sauce thickens. Add the cooked bitter melons and stir to combine. Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Bitter melon is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is high in antioxidants and other important vitamins and minerals. It is also low in calories and fat, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight. The pork adds an additional source of protein, and the garlic and other seasonings add flavor and nutrition. This dish is an excellent source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Vitamin B6. It is also a good source of dietary fiber and iron. One serving of this dish provides approximately 250 calories and 10 grams of fat.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but can also be served alongside steamed white rice or noodles. If desired, you can also add other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or bamboo shoots. This dish can also be served as an appetizer or side dish. To make it more of a meal, add a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad. It makes a great addition to any Asian-inspired meal.

Tips and Tricks

To make this dish even more flavorful, try adding a few drops of fish sauce or a pinch of chili flakes to the stir-fry. If you are not a fan of bitter melon, you can substitute it with another vegetable such as zucchini or squash. To reduce the cooking time, you can also use pre-cooked ground pork or pre-cut vegetables. For a vegan version of this dish, simply omit the pork and use extra vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and bamboo shoots. This dish is best served hot but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.