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.

Steamed Stuffed Bitter Melon (Zhēng Bǎo Kǔguā)

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Stuff the bitter melon halves with the pork mixture, pressing the filling in firmly.
  4. 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.
  5. Cover and steam over high heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the bitter melon is tender and the filling is cooked through.
  6. 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