Steamed Stuffed Bitter Melon (Zhēng Bǎo Kǔguā)
Zhēng Bǎo Kǔguā, or Steamed Stuffed Bitter Melon, is a classic Tianjin Cuisine dish that combines the bitterness of bitter melon with a savory and flavorful stuffing. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
- 4 small bitter melons
- 200g ground pork
- 1 egg
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare the bitter melons by cutting them in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and pith, and blanching them in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix the ground pork, egg, green onions, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, sugar, white pepper, and cornstarch until well combined.
- Stuff the bitter melon halves with the pork mixture, pressing the filling in firmly.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a steaming plate or dish. Arrange the stuffed bitter melon halves in the plate and pour the chicken broth around them.
- Cover and steam over high heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the bitter melon is tender and the filling is cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 20 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 25 minutes
- Total time:
- 45 minutes
- Cooking method
- Stovetop
Nutritional facts per 1 serving
- Calories
- 150 per serving
- Protein
- 8g
- Carbohydrates
- 12g
- Fat
- 7g
Supplies
Steaming plate or dish Cutting board Knife Bowl Steamer
Tools
Knife Steamer
Serving suggestions
Serving suggestions: Serve the Zhēng Bǎo Kǔguā with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips & tricks
Tips: Adjust the amount of salt and sugar in the filling according to your taste preference for a perfect balance of flavors.
Cost
$10