Bitter Melon?

[supernova]

We have a new, snazzy large asian supermarket that opened up back in the spring here in Durham/Chapel Hill. Went there last night to check it out. Not finished yet, still stocking some aisles. The tea aisle is heady. Good selection of live fish/shellfish in tanks. Produce section is very good. Very fresh and filled with stuff you won't find in Kroger's.

We got some bitter melon, but I need to know what to do with it? How do you prepare it?

[Warpy]

1. You seed it and chop it, basically

Type II diabetics sometimes make a tea with the flesh, sugaring and flavoring it with other things because it has a very minor effect on blood sugar.

As for culinary uses, think of it more as a vegetable than a fruit when planning stir fries, soups, and other preparations. It really is puckery, to the point that a lot of people who have grown up on it aren't terribly fond of it.

It's used in Asian and Caribbean cuisine, mostly. That's where to look for recipes.

[grasswire]

2. there is a bitter melon grower right here in this forum.

Maybe he'll see this and chime in.