Ginisang Ampalaya (Sauteed Bitter Melon)

The thought we often associate with “ampalaya” is bitterness and a generally unpleasant taste. And while it is true that this vegetable holds this flavor— after all, it is called a bitter melon— it doesn’t always have to taste unfavorable. Some ampalaya can initially have that overpowering bitterness, but with the right preparations, it can actually taste satisfyingly flavorful and delicious. A classic dish that utilizes this unique flavor is Ginisang Ampalaya.

 

We make it with a couple of kitchen basics. This includes garlic, black pepper, eggs and tomatoes. You’d be surprised what you’ll end up with using such simple ingredients. Ginisang Ampalaya holds a well-balanced group of flavors— from savor to a pleasantly subtle bitterness. And of course, you can’t forget about the fact that it is a massively healthy and nutritious dish. 

Not only is it more than filling enough for a good meal, but it also has a variety of vitamins and minerals. From ampalaya alone, you are able to get lots of vitamin C. This is essential in forming the bones, as well as keeping away from diseases. The ingredient is also popular for its anti-diabetes functions, as it contains an insulin-like peptide. 

But I can understand if you’re in doubt because of the bitter taste of this healthy ingredient. Let me introduce you to some ways you could get rid of this a bit.

Decreasing the bitter flavor of ampalaya

A well-known method is by soaking the bitter melon in water with some salt. You can start out by pouring water into a bowl, and placing a large pinch of salt inside. After that, you can put your sliced ampalaya inside. You can keep it in the bowl for just a few minutes, or for better results, overnight. Then once you’re done, just drain the mix of water, rinse the slices, and then dry them. 

You could also try the simple way of rubbing the vegetable with salt. Take your ampalaya slices with the seeds taken out, and distribute a teaspoon of salt on the inside of the ingredient. Rub the salt onto the vegetable, and then let this sit for about 5 minutes. After that, your ampalaya should be a lot less bitter. 

Now that we’ve successfully explored the ways to lighten the bitter melon’s overpowering flavor, how about making some Ginisang Ampalaya?

How to cook Ginisang Ampalaya

We will start by preparing our ampalaya, but you can also skip this if you have already done preparations for lessening the bitterness beforehand. Otherwise, you can utilize this easy method. Begin by taking your 2 pieces of ampalaya, and make sure you have cleaned and cut them up into thin slices. Put these inside a large bowl, and add some salt, as well as lukewarm water. Leave this inside for 5 minutes.

Then you can put the ampalaya on a cheesecloth, and start squeezing the slices tightly until all the liquid drips out. Now we will prepare for the cooking of these bitter melon slices! Go ahead and heat up your pan, then pour 3 tablespoons of cooking oil inside. After that, we will add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 large onion we’ve sliced, and 1 large tomato we’ve also sliced. Sauté these together.

Now get the ampalaya we prepared earlier, and place this in the pan as well. Mix it up nicely along with your other ingredients to blend the flavors together. And then just sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper and some salt to your taste. Now beat 2 raw eggs, and pour them over your ampalaya. Let the eggs cook partially, and then mix them up with your other ingredients. Then you’re all good to go!

Make sure to have it while it’s hot. Just transfer it to your serving plate of choice, and this would also work with some warm rice. Enjoyed this Ginisang Ampalaya recipe? Luckily, we’ve got a great selection of delightful bitter melon recipes for you. 

More ampalaya recipes to try out

Chicken with Ampalaya in Oyster Sauce

If you’re looking for a fun and distinct way to have your chicken, here’s a deliciously nutritious option for you! Chicken with Ampalaya in Oyster Sauce gives you a juicy mix of white meat and tasty bitter gourd mixed in with the finest set of flavors. With chicken broth and yellow onions added into the mix, we’ve got a most flavorful recipe in our hands. 

Ampalaya Salad

Now when you’re craving something a bit simpler, and perhaps healthier too, Ampalaya Salad is your go-to. This uses some moist Roma tomatoes, vinegar and red onions to make up a rich, tasty dish. And the preparation is also very easy because we’ll mainly just be putting all of our ingredients together.  Ensaladang Ampalaya also works well with a variety of meals as a side dish. Come and make your own plate of this yummy dish! 

For any questions or suggestions, the comments section is always open for them! Let us know what you thought of this Ginisang Ampalaya recipe.

Watch the cooking video