KOMPAS.com – Bitter gourd or pariah is a type of vegetable known for its distinctive bitter taste. For some people, this bitter taste actually has its own attraction.
However, quite a few people avoid bitter melon because they can’t stand the taste. In fact, bitter melon is rich in nutrients that are good for the body.
If you are one of those who don’t like bitter melon because of its bitter taste, there is good news for you.
Also read: Quail Egg Bitter Gourd Sambal Recipe, Lunch Side Dish Idea
How to reduce bitterness in bitter melon
Apparently, the bitter taste of bitter melon can be reduced with a few simple steps. Here are the methods you can try:
1. Split and clean bitter melon
The first step is to divide the bitter melon into two parts lengthwise. After that, remove the seeds in the middle. Use a spoon to scrape out the white part of the bitter melon, because this is the source of the bitter taste.
If after scraping there is still a lot of white part remaining, you can use a knife to remove it more thoroughly. Make sure the white part is completely reduced to reduce the bitter taste to the maximum.
2. Slicing the bitter melon
After the white part is cleaned, slice the bitter melon according to your needs. If you want neater slices, make sure the white part is cleaned carefully.
3. Cover the bitter melon with salt
The next step is to coat the bitter melon with salt. Using a lot of salt will help reduce the bitter taste.
Also read: How to Make Bitter Gourd Juice to Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Stir in the salted bitter melon while squeezing occasionally. This process helps remove the bitter liquid from the bitter melon.
4. Rinse bitter melon
After kneading with salt, rinse the bitter melon with clean water. Repeat this step three times to ensure the bitterness is reduced significantly. Finally, rinse the bitter melon once again with clean water so that it is ready to be processed.
Tips for processing bitter melon
Once the bitter taste has reduced, the bitter melon is ready to be cooked. One simple way to prepare bitter melon is to stir-fry it.
You can use sliced spices such as shallots, garlic, and chilies. Add fried anchovies for a more savory taste.
This way, you will still be able to enjoy bitter melon without being too bothered by the bitter taste.
Also read: Recipe for Stir-Frying Bitter Tempe with Sliced Spices, Anti-Bitter
So, don’t hesitate to try the tips above so that your family can get the nutritional benefits of this highly nutritious vegetable.
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