Salted egg bitter gourd is a delightful dish that transforms the slightly bitter and nutritious bitter gourd into a flavorful and indulgent treat. The unique combination of the salted egg yolk’s richness with the bitter gourd’s distinct taste creates a harmonious fusion of flavors that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized bitter gourds
• 2 salted duck egg yolks (or use store-bought salted egg yolk powder)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or cooking oil
• 1 tablespoon condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon evaporated milk
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional, for a hint of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bitter Gourd: Wash the bitter gourds thoroughly under running water. Cut off the ends, and then slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and pith. Slice the bitter gourds into thin half-moons, approximately 1/4-inch thick. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the bitter gourd slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps to reduce the bitterness of the gourd. After 10 minutes, rinse the bitter gourd slices under running water and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. Steam the Salted Egg Yolks (if using whole eggs): If you are using whole salted duck eggs, steam them for about 8-10 minutes until they are fully cooked. Remove the egg yolks from the eggs, discard the whites, and mash the yolks into a fine crumbly texture. Alternatively, you can use store-bought salted egg yolk powder, following the instructions on the package.

3. Cook the Bitter Gourd: In a wok or a large skillet, heat the unsalted butter or cooking oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown. Add the sliced bitter gourd to the wok and continue to stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the gourd becomes slightly tender. If you prefer a softer texture, you can cook it for a few more minutes.

4. Add the Salted Egg Yolk Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low, and then add the condensed milk, evaporated milk, and the mashed salted egg yolks (or salted egg yolk powder) to the wok. Mix everything well until the bitter gourd is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, keeping in mind that the salted egg yolks already have a salty flavor.

5. Garnish and Serve: Add the sliced red chili (if using) for a touch of heat and an appealing pop of color. Give the stir-fry a final toss to combine all the ingredients. Once the bitter gourd is well-coated with the salted egg yolk sauce, turn off the heat. Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish and serve immediately with steamed rice.

The salted egg yolk sauce beautifully balances the bitterness of the gourd, elevating it into a delightful culinary experience. Salted egg bitter gourd is not only a delicious treat but also a nutritious one, as the bitter gourd itself is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making it a wonderful addition to your dining table. Enjoy the enticing flavors and health benefits of this savory twist on a traditional vegetable!

好好享受! Selamat makan! bon appétit! Enjoy your meal!