Bitter Melon and Smoked Tofu Stir-Fry with Goji Berries

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the bitter melon: Slice the bitter melon in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and pith. Slice thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). Place in a large bowl, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt, and toss to coat. Let it sit for 15 minutes to draw out bitterness, then rinse thoroughly under cold water and squeeze out excess moisture.

   ~20 min
2. 2

   Prepare the smoked tofu: Slice the smoked tofu into bite-sized cubes or strips.

   ~5 min
3. 3

   Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.

   ~3 min
4. 4

   Soak the goji berries in a small bowl with 1/4 cup of warm water for 10 minutes to rehydrate them.

   ~10 min
5. 5

   Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok over high heat until shimmering.

   ~2 min
6. 6

   Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

   ~1 min
7. 7

   Add the prepared bitter melon and smoked tofu to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the bitter melon starts to soften.

   ~4 min
8. 8

   Pour in the soy sauce and add the soaked goji berries along with their soaking water. Add the remaining 1/4 cup of water. Bring to a simmer.

   ~2 min
9. 9

   Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the ingredients. Drizzle with sesame oil just before serving.

   ~3 min