Harvest bitter melon goes to sell market, fruit with rough, thorny skin

Harvesting Bitter Melon: A Journey to the Market

The bitter melon, known for its distinctive rough, thorny skin, is a staple in many traditional dishes. Harvesting this unique vegetable is a labor-intensive process that requires careful attention to detail to ensure the fruits are picked at their peak ripeness.

The Harvesting Process:

1. Timing is Key: Bitter melons are typically harvested 15-20 days after flowering, when the skin is still green and firm. Overripe bitter melons will turn yellow and lose their characteristic bitterness.

2. Gentle Handling: The thorny skin of the bitter melon can easily bruise, so it's important to handle them with care. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the fruit from the vine, leaving a small portion of the stem attached to prolong freshness.

3. Selection for the Market: Not all bitter melons are created equal. When selecting the best ones for market, look for fruits that are uniformly green, firm, and free of blemishes. The rougher the skin, the more bitter the melon—a quality prized by many consumers.

Taking Bitter Melon to the Market:

Once harvested, the bitter melons are packed carefully to prevent damage during transport. They are typically taken to local markets where they are sold fresh. Vendors often display the bitter melons prominently, showcasing their unique appearance to attract customers.

Bitter Melon Recipe: A Taste of Tradition

Bitter melon is celebrated in various cuisines for its health benefits and distinctive taste. Here's a simple recipe to enjoy this unique vegetable:

Ingredients:

• 2 medium bitter melons
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
• Optional: Ground pork or shrimp for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bitter Melon: Slice the bitter melon in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Slice the halves into thin crescents.

2. Reduce Bitterness: To lessen the bitterness, soak the sliced bitter melon in salted water for 15 minutes, then drain.

3. Stir-Fry: Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant. If using ground pork or shrimp, add it to the pan and cook until browned.

4. Add the Bitter Melon: Add the bitter melon slices to the pan and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.

5. Season: Add soy sauce, sugar, and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes.

6. Serve: Serve hot as a side dish or over steamed rice for a complete meal.

Enjoy this nutritious and flavorful dish, a perfect balance of bitter and savory that reflects the rich culinary heritage of bitter melon.