This dish does not look pretty and may sound a bit odd to some. However, bitter gourd and black bean paste is a perfect combination together.
Ingredients:
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- 1 bitter gourd (about 200gm)
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- 3 cloves garlic (chopped)
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- 2 tablespoon of whole black bean sauce
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- 2 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt (for blanching)
Step By Step:
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- Boil a pan of water enough for blanching the bitter gourd . Add salt to boiling water.
- Prepare the bitter gourd by first cutting it into half (lengthwise). Scoop out the seeds and fibrous core with a spoon.
- Cut the bitter gourd into 8cm x 1 cm strips lengthwise.
- Add bitter gourd into the lightly salted boiling water for 1 minute and then remove. Immediately put the blanched bitter gourd into cold water for 1 minute and drain. (Note: by blanching the bitter gourd, the bitterness is reduced)
- Heat the cooking oil in a wok or frying pan.
- Add in chopped garlic and stir fry until fragrant and lightly brown.
- Add the whole black bean sauce and stir fry until well mixed.
- Add the blanched and drained bitter gourd.
- Stir fry for about 2-3 minutes until well mixed. (Note: If the bitter gourd appears too dry during the stir fry, add about 100ml of water. Avoid making the dish too watery when served)
- Remove and serve on a plate.