This is Sauteed Bitter Melon with Egg (Ginisang Ampalaya at Itlog). Ampalaya is called bitter melon in some countries, it is also known as bitter gourd. The bitter part of the name is no joke. It definitely has an acquired taste, but I feel there is a certain appeal to flavor imparted to the palate. Ampalaya is considered to have many health benefits, including anti-diabetic properties. It is an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals. Try this vegetable dish, if not for the taste then for your health. Enjoy this recipe from all of us at Filipino Chow.
Sauteed Bitter Melon with Egg (Ginisang Ampalaya at Itlog)
Ingredients
- 1 large bitter melon, sliced in half with seeds removed
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
- 1 medium-sized onion, sliced
- 1 medium-sized tomato, sliced
- salt and black pepper to taste
- cooking oil
Instructions
- Slice the bitter melon into thin, half crescent shaped pieces.
- Now soak the bitter melon in salted water for 10 minutes.
- Remove the bitter melon from the salt water and squeeze it with your hands slightly to remove some of the bitter taste.
- Then rinse the bitter melon and set it aside.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt to taste.
- Add the cooking oil to a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Now add the garlic and onion and stir occasionally.
- Saute this for a minute then add the tomato.
- Saute for another minute then add the bitter melon.
- Stir occasionally until the bitter melon is tender but do not overcook.
- Pour the eggs into the pan then stir.
- Cook this until eggs are scrambled.
- Remove the pan from the heat and serve the food on a serving dish.
For a boost of flavor, you can also add some sauteed pork, sausage, shrimp, or any meat of your choice to the dish.