Zheng Dou Fu Gua (steamed Stuffed Bitter Melon)

Zheng Dou Fu Gua, also known as Steamed Stuffed Bitter Melon, is a classic dish from Huaiyang Cuisine that features a unique combination of flavors and textures. The bitterness of the melon is balanced by the savory filling, creating a delicious and nutritious meal.

Vegetarian Low Carb Main Course Huaiyang Chinese Cuisine Stuffed Bitter Melon Steamed Dish
Zheng Dou Fu Gua (steamed Stuffed Bitter Melon)

Ingredients

  • 4 bitter melons
  • 200g ground pork
  • 1 egg
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp ginger, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp sugar
  • 1/4 tsp white pepper
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bitter melons by cutting them in half lengthwise, scooping out the seeds, and blanching them in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix the ground pork, egg, green onions, ginger, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, salt, sugar, white pepper, and cornstarch until well combined.
  3. Stuff the bitter melon halves with the pork mixture, pressing it in firmly.
  4. Place the stuffed bitter melon in a steaming dish and steam over high heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the melon is tender and the filling is cooked through.
  5. Heat the vegetable oil in a small pan and drizzle it over the steamed bitter melon before serving.

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
10g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
6g

Supplies

Steaming dish Small pan

Tools

Knife Cutting board Bowl Steamer

Serving suggestions

Serve the Zheng Dou Fu Gua hot as a main dish with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables.

Tips & tricks

To reduce the bitterness of the melon, you can soak the cut halves in salted water for 30 minutes before blanching.

Cost

$10