Bitter melon

Bitter melon, also known as Momordica charantia, is a tropical vine related to squash, zucchini, pumpkin, and cucumber, and it's commonly found in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. Known for its distinctively bitter taste, it's widely used in Asian cooking and traditional medicine. The fruit itself resembles a wrinkled cucumber or a green gourd with a spiky surface. Bitter melon is packed with nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, and folate, as well as minerals like potassium, iron, and magnesium. It also contains compounds like charantin, vicine, and polypeptide-p, which are thought to help regulate blood sugar levels. This has led to its use as a natural remedy for diabetes management. Other benefits include potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, digestive health support, and immune system boosting. While the bitterness of this melon can be intense, it's a popular ingredient in various dishes. Often stir-fried with garlic, onions, and sometimes eggs. Used in curries in Indian cuisine and soups in Chinese cooking. Sometimes stuffed with ground meat and spices. To reduce bitterness, bitter melon can be salted, soaked, or blanched before cooking.