Bitter Melon & Shrimp Bites with Tamarind Glaze

Instructions

1. 1

   Halve the bitter melon lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Slice thinly. In a large bowl, toss the bitter melon slices with a pinch of salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and drain well.

   ~20 min
2. 2

   Peel and devein the shrimp. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.

   ~5 min
3. 3

   In a medium saucepan, combine tamarind paste, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and water. Whisk until smooth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 3-5 minutes, until slightly thickened. Set aside.

   ~8 min
4. 4

   In the same saucepan (no need to wash), add the prepared bitter melon and shrimp. Cook over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through and the bitter melon is tender-crisp.

   ~4 min
5. 5

   Pour the tamarind glaze over the shrimp and bitter melon mixture. Toss to coat evenly and cook for another minute until the glaze clings to the ingredients.

   ~1 min
6. 6

   Spoon the mixture onto a serving plate. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds.