Bitter Melon from seeds

I have got a seed for this plant from a friend of mine. Bitter Melon is uncommn here in Libya but was brought by Asian workers who use it as food. It also used as medcine (see WebMed Quote below):

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BITTER MELON Overview Information (WebMed [ http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-suppl...795-bitter melon.aspx?activeingredientid=795& ])

 

I just recently heard about all the medicinal properties of Bitter Melon. They are uncommon here and so when I grew them last year we weren't sure what to do with them! What do you do with them liono?

 

Hi Eileen, it was only one seed and it did germinate. I planted it in the ground:

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Netty, I do not know how to cook them but I got these from the net:

- http://food.ndtv.com/lists/5-best-bitter-gourd-recipes-1233784
- http://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2010/07/seriously-asian-bitter-melon-stir-fry.html
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- http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/prepare-own-bitter-melon-5034.html

 

After 2 Months:

 

I grow bitter melon regularly and enjoy eating them.


Bitter Gourd ( photo / image / picture from KK Ng's Garden )


Bitter Gourd ( photo / image / picture from KK Ng's Garden )

I think eating them is an either you like it or just hate it. To those who do not like them it is bitter but to those who enjoy them it is actually sweet bitter, a refreshing taste...it is yum!!!

The easiest way to eat it is just stir fry with egg like an omelette.

 

I've seen these in our grocery store but never knew what to do with them.

@KK Ng - do you peel them? Then slice them? And then do you chop them up?

Do they need to be cooked? Or are they eaten raw?

 

Sorry for my late reply Islandlife. No you don't have to peel them and they do not need to be overcook, just cook will be greak. To make an omelette, first saute some garlic in oil, lard is best until fragrant then add in the bitter melon cut in slices and cook them. When they are cooked add in the beaten up egg and wa-lah, yum yum!!!

To prepare the bitter melon first cut it into half lengthwise and remove all the pulp containing the seeds. Next slice it about ½ cm thickness and it is ready for the pan. Wash it before cutting it. Enjoy.

 

@ KK Ng - Thanks! Will give the bitter melon a try one of these days. I do see it in the grocery stores here but have never had a clue how to cook it (so have never eaten it)