Bitter Gourd Recipes: Omelette, Stir-Fry, Soup & Sambal

Much has already been said about bitter gourd, but let me refresh your memory. Bitter gourd, also known as bitter melon, is celebrated for its health benefits and unique flavor. If you’re curious about its benefits or how to grow it at home, feel free to explore at CRISPY BITTER GOURD CHIPS & SRI LANKA BITTER GOURD SALAD.

Today, however, we’re focusing on showcasing Chinese bitter gourd. This variety is typically lighter in color and comes in various sizes, often larger than the Indian version. When using Chinese bitter gourd, it only makes sense to feature it in a Chinese-style dish. I must admit, I haven’t tried incorporating it into Indian recipes, but today’s focus is all about the classic pairing of bitter gourd and eggs in an omelette.

This combination is one I truly enjoy, especially when dining in Chinese restaurants with my Chinese friends. To my surprise, even my husband loves it (CHINESE GINSENG CHICKEN NOURISHING SOUP). However, my Indian friends - despite their commitment to healthy living - often act as if bitter gourd and eggs prepared Chinese-style would be impossible for them to swallow. I simply keep my opinions to myself in those moments. 

In Chinese restaurants, thanks to the signature "wok hei" technique, the bitter gourd omelette often turns out crispy and flat, or even fluffy, depending on the amount of oil used. 

While I’ve tried to recreate this at home, it’s never quite the same, though I’ve managed to achieve a version that’s somewhat reminiscent of an Indian-style omelette. Oh, and I must mention that I’ve tried making this dish with Indian bitter gourd too - it turned out fantastic.

For those who love experimenting with bitter gourd, I also have a few other delightful recipes to try: a Savory Bitter Gourd with Egg dish, a flavorful Bitter Gourd Egg Stir-Fry with Wolfberries, and a comforting Bitter Gourd Fish Soup. Additionally, if you’re into spicy flavors, the Chinese Style Sambal Bitter Gourd might just be your new favorite.

Bitter Gourd Omelette
Ingredients
1 bitter gourd, seeds removed and sliced thin
3 eggs, beaten
Some garlic, smashed
White pepper, to taste
4 tbsp oil
Salt, to taste

Method
Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the bitter gourd slices and smashed garlic, cooking on low heat until the gourd is softened.
Pour in the beaten eggs, ensuring they are evenly distributed over the bitter gourd.
Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
Cook until both sides are golden brown, then remove from heat.

Bitter Gourd with Egg
Ingredients
1 medium Chinese bitter gourd, seeds removed and sliced thin
5 garlic cloves, chopped
3 eggs
1 red chili, sliced
Some spring onion, thinly sliced
3 tbsp oil
Salt, to taste

Method
Heat oil in a pan and sauté garlic until it turns golden brown.
Add the sliced bitter gourd, stir, and cover to allow it to soften.
Crack the eggs directly onto the gourd and spread evenly.
Cover the pan again and cook until the eggs are set.
Uncover, then add sliced red chili, spring onion, and salt.
Gently stir and serve.

Bitter Gourd Egg Stir-Fry with Wolfberries
Ingredients
Similar as the Bitter Gourd with Egg recipe, with the addition of wolfberries and pepper for seasoning.

Method
Follow the same steps as outlined in the Bitter Gourd with Egg recipe.
Incorporate wolfberries and season with pepper along with salt before serving.

Bitter Gourd Fish Soup

Ingredients

Indian mackerel or mackerel fillets

Spring onion, for garnish

Method
Prepare the fish stock - HANDCRAFTED AND HOMEMADE FISH BALL NOODLE SOUP. 
Add the mackerel fillets to the stock and cook until tender.
Garnish with sliced spring onion before serving.

Chinese Style Sambal Bitter Gourd
Ingredients (as needed)
Chinese bitter gourd, sliced
Dried chili paste
Garlic, chopped
Lime juice
Salt, to taste
Oil

Method
Heat oil in a pan and stir-fry the chopped garlic and dried chili paste until fragrant.
Add the sliced bitter gourd and cook until tender.
Season with lime juice and salt before serving.