Sliced Bitter Melon Stuffed with Tofu and Peanut Sauce
This delightful dish features the unique flavor of bitter melon paired with a savory tofu filling, complemented by a rich and tangy peanut sauce. Perfect for those who appreciate the balance of bitter, salty, and sweet, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
| Main Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bitter melon (pare) | 1 piece |
| Firm tofu | 1 package |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Filling for Bitter Melon | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tapioca flour | 3 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 1 tablespoon |
| Beef or chicken flavoring | To taste |
| Hot water | As needed |
| Peanut Sauce | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Roasted peanuts | 1 handful |
| Large red chili peppers | 2 pieces |
| Garlic cloves | 2 pieces |
| Shallots | 2 pieces |
| Kencur (aromatic ginger) | 1 small piece |
| Tomato | 1/2 piece |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 piece |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garnish | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kaffir lime (jeruk purut) | 1 piece |
Instructions
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Prepare the Bitter Melon:
- Slice the bitter melon in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Rinse thoroughly to clean, then blanch briefly in boiling water with 1 tablespoon of salt until slightly wilted. Remove from heat, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
-
-
Make the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the tapioca flour and all-purpose flour. Gradually add hot water, mixing until you achieve a dough-like consistency that can be easily molded. Season the mixture with beef or chicken flavoring to taste. Stuff the filling into the hollowed-out bitter melon halves.
-
Steam the Stuffed Melon:
- Arrange the stuffed bitter melon and pieces of tofu on a steaming plate. Steam for approximately 15 minutes until cooked through. Once done, set aside to cool slightly.
-
Prepare the Peanut Sauce:
- In a pan, sauté the roasted peanuts, red chili peppers, garlic, shallots, and kencur until fragrant. Add in the tomato, followed by a splash of water to create a sauce. For a thicker consistency, mix a little all-purpose flour with water and stir it into the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and brown sugar to taste.
-
Serve:
- Arrange the steamed bitter melon and tofu on a serving plate. Generously drizzle the peanut sauce over the top and finish with a squeeze of fresh kaffir lime juice for added flavor. Enjoy this dish warm!
This Sliced Bitter Melon Stuffed with Tofu and Peanut Sauce is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, ideal as a side dish or a light main course. Enjoy this culinary delight that brings a unique twist to your dining table!
