Bitter melon is a type of vegetable that has many beneficial properties such as anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, cholesterol-lowering, and antiviral effects. It is rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A, complex B vitamins, fiber, potassium, iron, and calcium. Some of the phytochemicals found in bitter melon include flavonoids, glucosinolates, isoflavones, and terpenes.
Traditionally, many families hesitate to include bitter melon in their meals due to its bitter taste. However, there are several simple ways to reduce the bitterness of this vegetable without compromising its nutritional value.
1. Remove the seeds
Although bitter melon seeds can be eaten and are good for health, you can remove them if you want to reduce the bitterness of the vegetable. You can do this by cutting the bitter melon in half lengthwise and using a spoon to scrape out the seeds before cooking.
2. Boil
Boiling bitter melon is a method that significantly reduces its bitterness. If you add a little salt to the water while boiling, the bitterness will be reduced even faster. After boiling the bitter melon, including the skin, rinse it with boiling water to cool it down before enjoying.
3. Remove the outer skin
The outer skin of bitter melon can also be eaten, but peeling it can help reduce some of its bitterness. Use a knife to peel the skin off before cooking to make the melon smoother and less bitter.
4. Rub with salt
Salt is an effective seasoning that can help minimize the bitterness of bitter melon. All you need to do is place the slices of bitter melon on a tray and generously sprinkle them with salt. Let them marinate for about 20-30 minutes before cooking.
5. Soak in tamarind water
Tannin, a phytochemical compound found in bitter melon, is responsible for its bitter taste. Soaking bitter melon in tamarind water can help reduce the amount of tannin and therefore, the bitterness. Simply cut the bitter melon into pieces, wash them thoroughly, and soak them in tamarind water for about 30 minutes. The bitter taste will be removed, and the melon will be ready to use. However, this process may result in a slightly softer texture.
6. Use yogurt
The bitterness of bitter melon can be reduced by using yogurt. Place the bitter melon slices in diluted yogurt for 1 hour before cooking to ensure optimal bitterness reduction.
7. Squeeze lemon
The bitterness of bitter melon can be easily balanced by adding something salty, sweet, or sour to it. With bitter melon, you can squeeze some lemon juice on it to achieve optimal bitterness reduction.
8. Deep-fry
Deep-frying has little impact on the mineral and protein content of the food. When deep-frying bitter melon, this process not only helps remove the bitterness but also enhances the flavor of the dish, preserving all the nutrients.
9. Add sugar
Adding sweeteners such as palm sugar, syrup, or white sugar can help reduce the bitterness of bitter melon. However, you need to be cautious as adding sweeteners may affect the overall taste of the dish.
10. Soak in sugar and vinegar
A sugar and vinegar solution can also help eliminate the bitterness of bitter melon. Place sugar and vinegar in a bowl and mix well. Add a few pieces of bitter melon to soak for a while before cooking.
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