Cantonese Braised Ribs with Bitter Melon is a classic Cantonese dish, and another one to add to our collection of bitter melon recipes.  What Is Bitter Melon? Bitter melon, sometimes called bitter gourd, belongs to the same plant family (cucurbits) as cucumbers, zucchini, and pumpkins.Different regions grow distinct varieties.At our local Indian markets, I see the bumpier, more textured types, while Chinese versions are paler and have smoother skin.

Most are green, but there is also a white bitter melon.True to its name, this vegetable is indeed bitter—more bitter than a more familiar bitter green like broccoli rabe.The texture is firm and crisp, though you can cook it to whatever doneness you prefer—completely tender for soups like our Bitter Melon Pork Rib Soup, lightly cooked to maintain some bite, or anywhere in between.

Bitter melon is also very healthy.It has vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants.Research suggests it may help protect against serious conditions like cancer and diabetes.

Pretty impressive for a humble vegetable! We’ve even heard from readers whose healthcare providers recommended adding bitter melon to their diets specifically for managing diabetes.From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, bitter melon is considered a “cooling” food, which makes it particularly beneficial during hot weather.It’s thought to improve blood flow, calm inflammation, reduce internal heat, and support healthy digestion.

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