Stir-Fried Goya with Tofu and Egg

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-12 · Updated 2026-05-12

A classic Okinawan stir-fry featuring the unique bitterness of goya (bitter melon) balanced by silky tofu and fluffy scrambled eggs. This Japanese-inspired vegetarian recipe, ready in about 25 minutes, pairs goya (bitter melon), firm tofu, eggs for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 medium (about 200g) goya (bitter melon)
• 200g firm tofu
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2, minced garlic cloves
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut 1 medium goya lengthwise, remove seeds, and slice into thin half-moons about 1/8-inch thick. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt and let sit for 10 minutes, then rinse under cold water and pat dry to reduce bitterness.
2. Step 2: Drain and press 200g firm tofu, then cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
4. Step 4: Add the goya slices and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and edges slightly blister.
5. Step 5: Gently add the tofu cubes and stir-fry for another 3 minutes, taking care not to break them.
6. Step 6: Push the goya and tofu to one side and pour in 3 large beaten eggs on the empty side. Let them sit for 30 seconds, then scramble gently until just cooked but still soft.
7. Step 7: Mix everything together, add 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and stir for 1 minute until well combined and heated through.