While bitter melons are commonly sold in markets, not all of them are of good quality. To choose the best ones, keep these tips in mind:
Observe the color of the bitter melon
Typically, bitter melons come in shades of dark or light green. Contrary to popular belief, the lighter-colored ones are not softer. Due to their natural growth process and exposure to sunlight, their color tends to be more intense.
Examine the shape of the bitter melon
Bitter melons usually come in two shapes: straight and slightly curved. According to experienced vegetable growers, bitter melons are natural climbers belonging to the vine family, and factors like sunlight, temperature, and fertilizer can cause them to grow slightly curved.
Nowadays, straight bitter melons are common in the market, but they may have been treated with growth enhancers. Hence, it is advisable to choose slightly curved ones as they tend to have a better flavor and are sweeter.
Inspect the navel of the bitter melon
When bitter melons are fresh and still on the vine, there is usually a small flower attached to the navel. However, this flower naturally falls off within a day of harvesting. If the flower is still attached and feels firm, it indicates the use of preservatives or growth enhancers during the growth process.
Therefore, unless you know the bitter melon has just been picked, it is best to avoid those with flowers still attached, as they may contain chemicals.
Feel the skin of the bitter melon
Bitter melons have slightly rough skin. When shopping, look for melons with this texture, as it indicates freshness. Avoid those with smooth, slightly bruised skin, as they have likely been sitting for a while.
Press the bitter melon gently
When shopping, gently press the bitter melon and then release. If it quickly regains its shape, it indicates that the melon is juicy and fresh. On the other hand, if it feels stiff, it may have been stung by insects, and if it remains indented, it is likely old, dehydrated, and less nutritious.
Avoid purchasing bitter melons that do not spring back, even if they are inexpensive.
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