Bitter melon, or goya, might sound intimidating, but this vibrant green vegetable is a culinary star in many Asian cuisines, particularly in the Tet celebrations of Vietnam. Its slightly bitter taste, balanced perfectly with sweet and savory notes, makes it a surprisingly addictive ingredient. This vegetarian bitter melon stew, a beloved Tet dish, offers a refreshing twist on traditional stews, proving that even the most unassuming vegetables can create a symphony of flavors. Forget preconceived notions; this recipe unveils the incredible versatility of bitter melon.
This recipe emphasizes simple, fresh ingredients and techniques, leading to a deeply satisfying and flavorful stew perfect for a festive occasion or a cozy weeknight meal. The unique blend of spices and vegetables creates a comforting yet complex taste profile, showcasing the best of Vietnamese culinary traditions. Ready to unlock the delicious secrets of this vegetarian masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Pot
- Cloth bag
- Spoon
Ingredients
- Bitter melon: 2 (400g)
- Fresh tofu: 100g
- White tofu: 200g
- Cassava (or jicama)
- Carrots
- Squash
- Onion: 1 head
- Sugar
- Seasoning
- Salt
- Pepper
- Water: 2 liters
- Vegetarian seasoning: 1 teaspoon (for 300g of ingredients)
- Salt and pepper: 2/3 teaspoon (for 300g of ingredients)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables and Broth
- Cut cassava, carrots, and squash. You can also use pickled cabbage, radish, sugar cane, or sweet corn.
- Boil 2 liters of water. Once boiling, add the prepared vegetables (except bitter melon) to cook the sweet broth. Add onion root for extra flavor (or coriander/celery for a garlic-free option). Cook for 25 minutes.
Step 2. Prepare and Stuff the Bitter Melon
- Add a spoonful of salt to a pot of water. Add the tofu and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove, let cool, and press in a cloth bag to remove excess water.
- If using small bitter melons, leave whole. Larger melons should be cut into pieces. Remove the core using a spoon.
- Mix the pressed tofu, vegetarian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Knead for at least 15-25 minutes until it becomes elastic and chewy.
- Fill the bitter melon pieces with the tofu mixture. Pack it tightly but not too full.
- Steam the stuffed bitter melon for 10 minutes to help the filling set and prevent it from falling apart during stewing.
Step 3. Stew and Season
- Add the steamed bitter melon to the sweet broth along with the carrots (if using). Stew for another 10 minutes, until the bitter melon is tender.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Add sugar, vegetarian seasoning powder, and coriander to taste. Garnish with chili, pepper, green onions, and cilantro as desired.
Read more: Vietnamese Chicken Stew (Ca Ri Ga): A Flavorful Comfort Dish
Tips
- To preserve the bitter melon, store the steamed slices in a storage box in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Don't press the tofu until it's too dry; leave some moisture for better texture and adhesion.
- If the tofu mixture isn't chewy enough, add a tablespoon of flour.
- Don't freeze the tofu (Ky tofu); keep it cold to maintain its chewy texture.
- To remove the bitter melon's core easily, use a spoon handle to scrape it out in a circular motion.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbs: 30-35g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute bitter melon with another vegetable?
While bitter melon is key to the dish's unique flavor, you could try adding other greens like spinach or choy sum to supplement, but the taste will differ significantly.
2. How can I reduce the bitterness of the bitter melon?
Salting the sliced bitter melon and letting it sit for 15-20 minutes helps draw out some of the bitterness before cooking. Rinsing thoroughly afterward is essential.
3. What can I serve this stew with?
This stew pairs perfectly with steamed rice, crusty bread, or even as a side dish with grilled tofu or tempeh. It's versatile!
This vegetarian bitter melon stew is more than just a recipe; it's a taste of Vietnamese tradition and a testament to the surprising deliciousness of bitter melon. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it's sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy this heartwarming and flavorful dish, and happy Tet!