Spicy Beef and Bitter Melon Stir-Fry

Ingredients

• 2 bitter melons (sliced)
• 1/4 pound beef (sliced thinly)
• 3 shallots (sliced thinly)
• 1 clove garlic (sliced thinly)
• 6 red curly chilies (mashed)
• 4 bird’s eye chilies (mashed)
• Galangal (crushed, to taste)
• Water (as needed)
• Salt (to taste)
• Saori oyster sauce (optional)
• Cooking oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots, garlic, and crushed galangal, and sauté until fragrant and golden brown.

2. Add the thinly sliced beef to the pan. Stir-fry until the beef is browned and partially cooked.

3. Incorporate the mashed red curly chilies and bird’s eye chilies into the pan, stirring well to combine with the beef. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Add the sliced bitter melon to the pan. Stir in the optional Saori oyster sauce, if using, and a small amount of water to create a bit of steam. Mix everything thoroughly.

5. Continue to cook until both the bitter melon and beef are fully cooked and tender. Adjust the seasoning with salt to taste.

6. Once the dish is cooked through and the flavors are well balanced, remove from heat and serve hot.

This delightful dish combines the distinctive bitterness of bitter melon with the rich flavors of beef, all elevated by a spicy and aromatic sauce. Perfect as a flavorful and comforting meal!