The diet of a kampung dweller is simple. More importance is given to the natural flavours of the ingredients, whether vegetable or meat, when preparing a dish.
Bitter gourd might be an acquired taste for some considering how bitter this vegetable can be. However, it can be prepared in so many ways – fried, boiled, baked or used in a soup.
Bitter gourd is also known to have many health benefits that include controlling the blood sugar levels of diabetic patients due to its high insulin content.
This fried bitter gourd recipe is a must-have for an authentic kampung-style meal.
Ingredients
- 650g bitter gourd
- 4 tablespoons cooking oil
- 3 red chillies
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons dried shrimp
- Salt
Method
- Cut the bitter gourd lengthwise and remove the seeds. Cut into 1 cm slices.
- Fill a bowl with water and add 2 tablespoons of salt. Soak the bitter gourd for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, blend the chilli, garlic and turmeric.
- Heat 4 tablespoons of oil in a wok on medium heat and saute the blended ingredients until the oil separates and forms a layer on the surface.
- Add the dried shrimp, sliced onions and sliced bitter gourd.
- Stir-fry for four to five minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
This article first appeared in butterkicap.com.
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