Ampalaya, also called bitter melon, is a vegetable commonly used in Filipino cooking. As the name suggests, it has a naturally bitter taste that not everyone enjoys at first.
But when cooked properly, it adds a unique flavor to many dishes. In the Philippines, ampalaya is often used in recipes like ginisang ampalaya, pinakbet, and sinigang.
If you're new to cooking with ampalaya, this guide explains what it tastes like, how to buy it, how to store it, and how to prepare it.
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What is Ampalaya?
Ampalaya, also known as bitter melon or bitter gourd, is a tropical vegetable that grows on vines. It has a long shape with bumpy, ridged skin and a hollow center filled with seeds.
When young, the skin is bright green. As it ripens, it can turn yellow or orange.
You may also see different varieties in Asian markets, including the Chinese variety, which is longer and smoother, and the Indian variety (karela), which is smaller and more textured.
What Does Bitter Melon Taste Like?
Ampalaya has a distinct bitter taste. Some people find it strong at first, but many grow to enjoy it.
The bitterness is part of what makes the vegetable unique. When cooked, the texture stays firm but tender.
How to Buy Ampalaya
When choosing bitter melon, look for:
- Firm skin
- Green or light green color (some Chinese varieties are often lighter)
- Small to medium size
- No soft spots or bruises
Younger, smaller ampalaya is usually less bitter than larger ones.
How to Store Ampalaya
Store ampalaya in the refrigerator, preferably in the vegetable drawer.
Do not wash it before storing, since moisture can make it spoil faster.
It's best used within 3 to 5 days.
How to Prepare Ampalaya
Step 1: Slice the ampalaya in half lengthwise.
Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and white pith. Trim the ends if needed.
Step 2: Slice the ampalaya. Cut it into thin half-moons or slices, depending on your recipe.
Step 3: To reduce the bitterness, sprinkle salt over the slices and gently massage it in.
Let them sit for about 20 minutes.
Step 4: Rinse the slices under running water while gently squeezing them.
Drain well before cooking.
How to Reduce the Bitterness
Ampalaya will always be bitter, but these methods can help make it milder.
Salt method
- Slice the ampalaya.
- Sprinkle with salt and gently massage it.
- Let it sit for about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Rinse and squeeze gently before cooking.
Blanching
Briefly blanch the slices in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes before cooking.
Use strong flavors
Cooking it with ingredients soy sauce or oyster sauce helps mask the bitterness so it's more enjoyable to eat.
Filipino Recipes With Ampalaya
Ampalaya is used in many Filipino dishes. Here are some examples:
- Ginisang ampalaya: Sautéed bitter melon with eggs and sometimes pork or shrimp.
- Pinakbet: A vegetable stew with squash, okra, eggplant, yardlong beans, and bitter melon, cooked with shrimp paste.
- Ampalaya con carne: Bitter melon stir-fried with beef with oyster sauce or fermented black beans.
- Sinigang: A sour and savory soup made with pork, shrimp, or fish.
- Ampalaya salad: Thinly sliced bitter melon mixed with tomatoes, onions, and vinegar.
- Ampalaya achara: A quick pickle made with bitter melon soaked in a vinegar brine.
- Rellenong ampalaya: Thick slices of ampalaya are hollowed out and filled with ground meat and aromatics. They are then pan-fried or baked and cooked in a savory sauce.
- Paksiw na bangus: Milkfish poached in vinegar and spices, often with ampalaya and talong.
FAQs About Ampalaya
Ampalaya contains fiber and nutrients like vitamin C and folate. Like many vegetables, it can be part of a balanced diet.
Ampalaya naturally contains compounds that give it its bitter taste. This bitterness is part of the vegetable's natural flavor.
Salting the slices and rinsing them before cooking can help reduce the bitterness.
More Filipino Food Guide
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Mike says
I love bitter melon, always have. I have to say it is an acquired taste thou.
Nora Rey says
Hi Mike! I totally get what you mean about bitter melon being an acquired taste. It's not for everyone, but for those who love it, it's a real treat!