Bitter Melon Stir Fry with Eggs (Khổ Qua Xào Trứng)

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Bitter Melon Stir Fry with Eggs (Khổ Qua Xào Trứng)

Bitter Melon Stir Fry with Eggs is a healthy and light dish that’s easy to make

Bitter Melon Stir-Fry with Eggs (Khổ Qua Xào Trứng) is a healthy and light dish that’s easy to make, with little chance of going wrong. It pairs perfectly with a hot bowl of steamed rice.

Here are a few notes on my Bitter Melon Stir Fry with Eggs recipe:

  1. I use dried shrimp as an extra ingredient to add a bit more colour and flavour to the dish. However, you can omit the shrimp, and your Bitter Melon Stir Fry with Eggs will still taste delicious.
  2. I don’t blanch the bitter melons before cooking, but you can do so if you prefer a slightly milder flavour.

Q&As on Bitter Melon Stir Fry with Eggs

1. Is bitter melon good for weight management?

Yes, bitter melon can be beneficial for weight management. Bitter melon is low in calories and high in fibre, which helps you feel fuller for longer, potentially reducing overall calorie intake. Additionally, bitter melon has been studied for its potential role in improving metabolism and regulating blood sugar levels, both of which are important factors in managing weight. However, it’s important to incorporate bitter melon as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle for the best results in weight management.

Bitter melon is beloved in many Asian cuisines, where it is a staple ingredient

2. Which cuisines love to use bitter melon?

Bitter melon is beloved in many Asian cuisines, where it is a staple ingredient. In Chinese cuisine, it is often stir-fried with meats or eggs, added to soups, or stuffed with a savoury filling. Indian cuisine features bitter melon in dishes like curries, pickles, and stir-fries, where its bitterness is balanced with spices and other flavours. Vietnamese cuisine includes bitter melon in stir-fries, soups, and stews, often paired with pork or eggs. In Filipino cuisine, bitter melon, known as ampalaya, is commonly used in ginisang ampalaya, a stir-fry with eggs, onions, and tomatoes. These cuisines appreciate bitter melon not only for its unique taste but also for its health benefits.

3. Why does bitter melon have its bitter taste?

Bitter melon has its bitter taste due to the presence of compounds called momordicins and charantin. These are natural phytochemicals found in the fruit that give it its distinct bitterness. While the taste may be strong, these compounds are also associated with various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-regulating properties. The bitterness can vary depending on the variety of bitter melon, its ripeness, and how it is prepared, but it is this unique flavour that also makes it popular in traditional cuisines and medicinal practices.

4. Is there any bitter melon dish in Western cuisine?

Bitter melon is not traditionally used in Western cuisine, so it’s rare to find dishes that feature this ingredient. However, as global culinary influences continue to grow, bitter melon is increasingly being incorporated into Western dishes by chefs and home cooks who appreciate its unique flavour and health benefits. You might find it in fusion recipes, salads, or as a creative addition to stir-fries and side dishes. Despite its limited presence in traditional Western cuisine, bitter melon is gaining popularity as people explore and embrace diverse culinary traditions.

5. How do you say “Bitter Melon Stir Fry with Eggs” in Vietnamese, and how do you pronounce it?

The Vietnamese name for “Bitter Melon Stir-Fry with Eggs” is “Khổ Qua Xào Trứng.”

  • “Khổ Qua” refers to bitter melon.
  • “Xào” means stir-fry.
  • “Trứng” means eggs.

Pronunciation:

  • Khổ Qua: [koh-wah] – The “kh” is pronounced like a soft “k” sound, and “ổ” has a rising tone.
  • Xào: [sow] – The “x” is pronounced like an “s,” and “ào” has a falling-rising tone.
  • Trứng: [choong] – The “tr” is pronounced like “ch” in “church,” and “ứng” has a rising tone.

When combined, “Khổ Qua Xào Trứng” is pronounced as [koh-wah sow choong].

Recipe for Bitter Melon Stir Fry with Eggs (Khổ Qua Xào Trứng)

Bitter Melon Stir Fry with Eggs (Khổ Qua Xào Trứng) is a simple yet nutritious Vietnamese dish that combines the unique bitterness of bitter melon with the richness of eggs. This quick stir-fry is enhanced with dried shrimp for added depth of flavour, making it a perfect accompaniment to a hot bowl of steamed rice. The dish is light, easy to prepare, and packed with health benefits, offering a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Whether you're looking for a healthy side dish or a light main course, Bitter Melon Stir Fry with Eggs is a comforting and satisfying choice.
Please refer to the video instructions at the end of the recipe if you’d like to see how to make Bitter Melon Stir Fry with Eggs (Khổ Qua Xào Trứng) in action.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Cuisine Vietnamese
Servings 2

Equipment

  • 1 nonstick skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium bitter melons
  • 4 eggs
  • 75 grams dried shrimp
  • Shallots (finely chopped)
  • Green onions
  • For seasoning: Salt, fish sauce, mushroom powder, MSG (or chicken bouillon powder)

Instructions
 

  • Start by cutting the bitter melons in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and the white pith from the centre of each half.
  • Thinly slice the bitter melons into bite-sized pieces.
  • Cut the green onions into small pieces.
  • In a bowl, break the eggs and add 1 teaspoon of fish sauce and a pinch of MSG (or chicken bouillon powder). Beat the eggs well.
  • Heat oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, then add the shallots. Sauté them until they become fragrant, then add the dried shrimp. Cook just until the shrimp are slightly crispy and fragrant.
  • Add the sliced bitter melon to the skillet with the sautéed shallots and shrimp. Stir the mixture well. Cook until the bitter melon starts to soften but still retains a slight crunch. Sprinkle the stir-fry with mushroom powder and a pinch of salt.
  • Gently pour in the beaten eggs and continue stirring. Cook until the eggs are just set.
  • Turn off the heat and stir in the green onions.
  • Your Bitter Melon Stir Fry with Eggs is ready to be served!
    Transfer the finished stir-fry to a serving plate. The dish is now ready to be enjoyed alongside a steaming bowl of rice.

Video

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