Stuffed Bitter Melon with Mackerel
Discover a delightful fusion of flavors with this Stuffed Bitter Melon with Mackerel recipe, featuring tender mackerel fillets stuffed into succulent bitter melon. This dish balances the bitterness of the melon with savory spices, creating a unique culinary experience that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for those looking to explore different textures and flavors, this recipe combines simplicity with taste, making it an excellent addition to any meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mackerel fillet | 700 grams |
| Shallots | 6 cloves |
| Garlic | 5 cloves |
| Ginger | 1 thumb-sized piece |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Granulated sugar | ½ teaspoon |
| Bitter melon (pare) | 2, cleaned and seeds removed |
| Red chili peppers | 4 (adjust to taste) |
| Egg | 1 |
| Vegetable oil for sautéing | 3 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Filling:
- Begin by blending the shallots, garlic, ginger, and red chili peppers into a fine paste, adding the salt and sugar for seasoning. This will create a fragrant base for the stuffing.
-
-
Sauté the Mixture:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground spice mixture to the pan and sauté until aromatic, allowing the flavors to develop. Then, incorporate the mackerel fillets, stirring until they are well combined with the spices. As the fish begins to cook, crack the egg into the mixture, continuing to stir until everything is evenly mixed and the mackerel is fully cooked. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt to your preference.
-
Prepare the Bitter Melon:
- While the filling is cooking, clean the bitter melon thoroughly. Slice it lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds, ensuring that the flesh remains intact to form a boat for the filling.
-
Stuff the Melon:
- Generously fill each half of the bitter melon with the prepared mackerel mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the filling adheres well to the melon.
-
Steam the Stuffed Melon:
- Set up a steamer basket over boiling water. Place the stuffed bitter melon in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cover and steam for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the melon is cooked through but still slightly firm, avoiding an overly soft texture.
-
Serve:
- Once steamed, transfer the stuffed bitter melon to a serving platter. Accompany the dish with a refreshing side of boiled cucumbers and tomatoes to balance the rich flavors of the filling.
Enjoy this unique and healthy dish, perfect for a family meal or a special gathering, where the bitter melon complements the savory filling beautifully, creating a delightful culinary experience.
