Stir-Fried Bitter Melon with Tofu and Shrimp

Name: Stir-Fried Bitter Melon with Tofu and Shrimp
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 medium bitter melon; 14 oz firm tofu; 8 oz shrimp; 2 cloves garlic; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 green onions; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

A vibrant Okinawan dish featuring the signature bitter melon stir-fried with fresh shrimp and tofu, balanced with a savory-sweet sauce.

Cuisine: Asian

Category: Asian

Prep: 20 minutes. Cook: 25 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

2 medium bitter melon
14 oz firm tofu
8 oz shrimp
2 cloves garlic
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sugar
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 green onions
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add 8 oz peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking for 2 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Add 2 medium bitter melon, sliced 1/4 inch thick, and 14 oz cubed firm tofu (1 inch cubes) to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5 minutes until the bitter melon begins to soften.
Step 4: Whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar in a small bowl. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and tofu, stirring to coat.
Step 5: Return the 8 oz shrimp to the skillet, add 1 tsp sesame oil, and stir-fry for 2 more minutes until everything is heated through. Garnish with 2 sliced green onions.