Stuffed bitter melon with minced pork (Chinese style bitter melon / bitter gourd recipe)

minced pork

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground chicken

Ground turkey offers lower fat content while ground chicken is often less expensive.

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: low-sodium soy sauce

💰Cheaper: tamari

Low-sodium soy sauce reduces sodium intake, while tamari is often cheaper and gluten-free.

oyster sauce

🥗Healthier: mushroom sauce

💰Cheaper: hoisin sauce

Mushroom sauce provides a similar umami flavor, while hoisin sauce is usually less costly.

sesame oil

🥗Healthier: flaxseed oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Flaxseed oil offers omega-3s, while canola oil is a budget-friendly alternative.

Cut bitter melon in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.

Mix minced pork with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Stuff the bitter melon halves with the pork mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.

Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat until shimmering.

Sear the stuffed bitter melon halves for 2-3 minutes until browned on the outside.

Add water to the pan, cover, and steam for about 15-20 minutes until the pork is cooked through.

Remove the lid and let any excess liquid evaporate for a few minutes.

Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: