Spicy Bitter Melon and Tofu Stir-fry with Shrimp Paste
This dish offers a bold fusion of bitter, spicy, and umami flavors, typical of Southeast Asian cuisine. Tender slices of bitter melon are stir-fried with firm tofu and succulent shrimp, all coated in a pungent shrimp paste and chili sauce.
Prep Time
30 min
Difficulty
Easy
Servings
4
Calories
250 kcal
Instructions
- 1
Cut bitter melon in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and slice thinly. Place in a bowl and toss with salt, then let sit for 10 minutes to draw out bitterness. Rinse thoroughly and squeeze out excess water.
~15 min - 2
Cut tofu into bite-sized cubes. Peel and devein shrimp if necessary. Mince garlic and ginger. Chop red chilies finely.
~5 min - 3
Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, ginger, and chilies, and stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.
~1 min - 4
Add shrimp paste and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- 5
Add tofu and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned.
~4 min - 6
Add the prepared bitter melon and stir-fry for another 5 minutes until tender-crisp.
~5 min - 7
Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil. Add sugar and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes.
~2 min - 8
Serve hot with steamed rice.
Tips
- To reduce bitterness of the bitter melon, you can also blanch it in boiling salted water for 1-2 minutes after salting and rinsing.
- This dish pairs exceptionally well with plain steamed jasmine rice, which helps to balance the intense flavors.
Featured Collections
Popular Recipes
HalalTamarind Glazed Crispy Quail Eggs with Candied Ginger and Kaffir Lime Dust
These exquisite bite-sized appetizers feature perfectly crispy fried quail eggs coated in a tangy tamarind glaze, offering a delightful interplay of sweet, sour, and umami flavors. Each morsel is finished with a sprinkle of house-made candied ginger and fragrant kaffir lime dust for an aromatic and complex finish.
HalalTamarind-Glazed Pomelo and Lychee Terrine with Candied Ginger Crumble
This elegant dessert features layers of sweet pomelo segments and delicate lychees, suspended in a subtly tart tamarind glaze. A contrasting crumbly topping of caramelized ginger adds a delightful textural and aromatic complexity.
HalalLychee & Osmanthus Honeycomb Custard with Candied Petals
This ethereal dessert features a silken, delicately floral custard infused with the sweet essence of lychee and the fragrant aroma of osmanthus flowers, all crowned with a shimmering honeycomb crunch and edible candied flower petals. It's a sophisticated treat that captures the essence of blooming gardens and golden honey.
HalalSpiced Lychee and Duck Confit Spring Rolls
These delicate spring rolls offer a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and savory. Crispy fried wrappers envelop a rich duck confit filling, accented by the subtle sweetness of lychee and a kick of chili.