How to Make Bitter Gourd with Beef

Bitter gourd, also known as bitter melon, is a popular vegetable in many Asian cuisines. It has a unique bitter taste but is also packed with nutrients. Beef is another nutrient-rich food, and it is a good source of protein and iron. When combined, bitter guard and beef make a delicious and nutritious meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Bitter Gourd and Beef

Bitter gourd is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and manganese. It is also a good source of fiber. Beef is a good protein, iron, zinc, and selenium source.

Health Benefits of Bitter Gourd and Beef

Bitter gourd has been shown to have several health benefits. It is known to help lower blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol levels, and boost the immune system. Bitter guards may also have anti-cancer properties.

Beef is a good protein source, essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. Beef is also a good source of iron, which is necessary for carrying oxygen throughout the body.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make bitter gourd with beef:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound (225g) beef, thinly sliced

• 2 medium-sized bitter gourds

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced

• 2 green chilies, slit (adjust to your spice preference)

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)

• Salt to taste

• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare Bitter Gourd:

Wash the bitter gourds and cut them in half lengthwise.

Scoop out the seeds and white pith using a spoon. This is where most of the bitterness resides, so removing it will make the dish less bitter.

Slice the cleaned bitter gourds into thin semi-circles.

Marinate the Beef:

In a bowl, marinate the beef slices with half of the minced garlic, ginger, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Bitter Gourd:

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.

Add the bitter gourd slices and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and turn light brown. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.

Cook the Beef:

In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.

Add the sliced onion, green chilies, and the remaining minced garlic and ginger. Sauté until the onions become translucent.

Add the marinated beef slices and stir-fry until they are cooked through and turn brown. This will take about 5-7 minutes.

Combine and Season:

Add the sautéed bitter gourd back to the pan with the beef.

Mix everything well and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the bitter gourd is tender.

Adjust salt and spice levels according to your taste.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves if desired.

Serve hot with steamed rice or bread of your choice.

Tips for making bitter gourd with beef:

·         To reduce the bitterness of the bitter gourd, soak the slices in salted water for 30 minutes before cooking.

·         You can also blanch the bitter gourd in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before cooking.

·         If you don't have fermented black beans, you can substitute with regular black beans.

·         You can also add other vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms.

·         To make the dish spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili sauce.

Another popular way to cook bitter gourd and beef is to make a soup. To make bitter gourd and beef soup, you will need the following ingredients:

·         1 pound beef, sliced thinly

·         1 bitter gourd, sliced thinly

·         1 onion, chopped

·         2 cloves garlic, minced

·         1 tablespoon ginger, minced

·         1 teaspoon chili oil

·         1 teaspoon sesame oil

·         1/2 teaspoon black pepper

·         6 cups beef broth

·         1 tablespoon soy sauce

·         1 tablespoon rice vinegar

·         Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1.    Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2.    Add the beef and cook until browned.

3.    Add the onion, garlic, ginger, chili oil, sesame oil, and black pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

4.    Add the beef broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper and bring to a boil.

5.    Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.

6.    Add the bitter gourd and cook until tender, about 10 minutes more.

Popular Bitter Gourd and Beef Recipes

·         Stir-Fried Bitter Gourd and Beef: This is a classic Chinese stir-fry dish that is quick and easy to make.

·         Bitter Gourd and Beef Soup: This hearty soup is perfect for a cold winter day.

·         Bitter Gourd and Beef Curry: This flavorful curry is a great way to enjoy the unique taste of bitter guard.

·         Bitter Gourd and Beef Salad: This refreshing salad is a great way to enjoy bitter guard in the summer.

Conclusion:

Enjoy your Bitter Gourd with Beef! It's a delicious and slightly bitter dish that balances the flavors of the bitter gourd with the savory beef and spices.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes                                                       Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Serves: 2-3                                                                                      Author: Asma Rasool