What Is Bitter Melon?
Bitter melon (Momordica charantia), also called bitter gourd, karela in India and goya in Okinawa, is a climbing vine of the gourd family grown throughout tropical Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. Its fruit is long and green with a bumpy, warty skin, and as the name says, it is one of the most bitter vegetables eaten anywhere in the world.
Our bitter melon is sliced and dried, so the rings keep the pale green flesh and the seed cavity. Dried slices store well, rehydrate quickly in hot water and are the traditional base of bitter melon tea, called goya tea in Japan and karela tea in South Asia.
In the kitchen, bitter melon is loved for its sharp, clean bitterness, which balances rich and spicy foods. In India it is stir-fried with onions and spices, stuffed or cooked into curries. In China it is added to soups and stir-fries with pork, black beans or eggs, and in Okinawa it is the star of goya champuru.
Dried slices can be rehydrated and cooked in the same way as fresh bitter melon, or crushed and added in small amounts to soups and stews. Soaking them in salted water first softens the bitterness.
Our dried bitter melon contains only sliced Momordica charantia. It is sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.
How to Use Dried Bitter Melon Slices
- Bitter melon tea: Use 3 to 5 dried slices (about 2 g) per cup (8 fl oz / 250 ml). Pour over boiling water and steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Add honey or lemon if you like.
- Cooking: Soak the slices in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes, drain and add to curries, stir-fries or soups.
- Milder taste: Soak the rehydrated slices in salted water for 10 minutes and rinse before cooking.
Safety
Do not use during pregnancy or while nursing, and do not give to children. If you take diabetes medication or have a medical condition, consult a qualified healthcare professional before regular use, as bitter melon may affect blood sugar levels. Keep out of reach of children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bitter melon the same as bitter gourd and karela?
Yes. Bitter melon, bitter gourd, karela and goya are all names for Momordica charantia.
How do I make bitter melon tea?
Steep 3 to 5 dried slices in a cup of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
How bitter is it?
Very. Bitter melon is one of the most bitter vegetables in the world. Honey, lemon or cooking with spices balances it.
Can I cook with the dried slices?
Yes. Rehydrate them in warm water, then use like fresh bitter melon in curries and stir-fries.
How should I store dried bitter melon?
Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place.
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