Bitter Melon and Shrimp Stir-Fry with Fermented Tofu

Instructions

1. 1

   Halve the bitter melon lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pith. Slice the melon thinly. In a bowl, toss the bitter melon slices with 1 tablespoon of salt and let sit for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and squeeze out excess water.

   ~15 min
2. 2

   In a small bowl, mash the fermented tofu cubes with a fork until smooth. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Mix well to create the sauce.

   ~5 min
3. 3

   Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

   ~1 min
4. 4

   Add the shrimp to the skillet and stir-fry until they turn pink and are almost cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.

   ~3 min
5. 5

   Add the prepared bitter melon to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the melon is tender-crisp.

   ~4 min
6. 6

   Pour the prepared fermented tofu sauce over the mixture. Add 50ml of water and stir well to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients.

   ~3 min
7. 7

   Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with steamed rice.