Braised Bitter Melon and Tofu Puffs with Fermented Black Beans

Ingredients

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the bitter melon: Cut bitter melon in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and white pith. Slice into pieces. Blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to reduce bitterness, then drain and rinse with cold water.

2. 2

   Prepare aromatics: Finely chop fermented black beans. Mince garlic and ginger. Slice red chili (if using).

3. 3

   Sauté aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat. Add chopped fermented black beans, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add red chili if using.

4. 4

   Combine ingredients and braise: Add bitter melon and tofu puffs to the wok. Stir well to coat. Pour in vegetarian oyster sauce, light soy sauce, sugar, and water/vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.

5. 5

   Simmer and thicken: Cover the wok and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until bitter melon is tender and flavors have melded. Stir occasionally.

6. 6

   Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the simmering sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

7. 7

   Serve: Transfer the braised bitter melon and tofu puffs to a serving dish. Serve hot with steamed rice.