Bitter Melon & Tofu Stir-fry with Tamarind Glaze

Instructions

1. 1

   Halve the bitter melon lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Slice thinly.

   ~5 min
2. 2

   Toss the sliced bitter melon with 1 teaspoon of salt and let sit for 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and squeeze out excess water to reduce bitterness.

   ~10 min
3. 3

   Press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut into 1-inch cubes.

   ~2 min
4. 4

   Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.

   ~2 min
5. 5

   In a small bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Set aside.

   ~2 min
6. 6

   Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove tofu from skillet and set aside.

   ~10 min
7. 7

   Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add minced garlic and grated ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.

   ~1 min
8. 8

   Add the prepared bitter melon to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until tender-crisp.

   ~7 min
9. 9

   Return the fried tofu to the skillet. Pour the tamarind glaze over the mixture and stir to coat.

   ~1 min
10. 10

    Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly. Stir in sesame oil, salt, and pepper.

    ~3 min