🇵🇭 Philippines · Food
Ginisang Ampalaya
By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
A popular Filipino stir-fry dish featuring bitter melon cooked with scrambled eggs, onions, and garlic. It is a nutritious meal loved for its unique bitter-savory balance.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Slice 2 bitter melons in half, remove seeds, and slice thinly; soak in salt water for 20 minutes to reduce bitterness.
- 2
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet and cook 150g of diced pork belly until crispy.
- 3
Add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sautéing until fragrant.
- 4
Drain the bitter melon and add it to the skillet, stir-frying for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- 5
Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and toss everything together for even coating.
- 6
Whisk 3 eggs and pour them over the mixture in the pan.
- 7
Stir gently until the eggs are set and cooked through to your preferred texture.
- 8
Serve hot immediately, typically enjoyed with a side of freshly steamed white rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I reduce the bitterness of the ampalaya?+
Soaking the sliced bitter melon in salted water for 15-20 minutes and squeezing it gently helps draw out the bitterness.
Can I omit the pork?+
Yes, you can substitute the pork with shrimp or tofu, or simply omit it for a lighter vegetarian stir-fry.
Should I wash the salt off the ampalaya?+
Yes, rinse it under cold running water after the soaking period to ensure the dish doesn't become overly salty.
Is it okay if the eggs are runny?+
It is a matter of preference; some prefer it slightly soft, while others like the egg fully scrambled and set.
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