Stir-fried beef and bitter Melon with black beans Recipe

by

Introduction:

This Stir-Fried Beef and Bitter Melon with Black Beans dish is a staple of traditional Cantonese cuisine. It combines tender strips of marinated beef, the distinctive flavor of bitter melon, and the umami punch of fermented black beans in a quick and healthy stir-fry. Loved for its depth, balance, and nutritional benefits, this dish offers a delicious contrast of bitter and savory flavors — perfect with steamed rice.

Origin:

Rooted in southern Chinese cuisine, particularly from Guangdong (Cantonese) regions, this dish reflects the traditional approach to balancing flavor and nutrition. Bitter melon (苦瓜) is widely used in Chinese medicine and cooking for its cooling properties and ability to support digestion. The black bean sauce, made from fermented soybeans, adds a rich, salty depth that has been a part of Chinese culinary culture for centuries.

Ingredients (Serves 3–4):

🥩 For the Beef:

  • 300g (10 oz) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon sesame oil
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon water

🥒 For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 medium bitter melon, sliced thin (seeds removed)
  • 2 tablespoons fermented black beans (rinsed and chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • ¼ cup water or chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (like canola or peanut oil)

Optional Ingredients:

  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (for heat)
  • 1 small onion, sliced (for sweetness and texture)
  • Sliced red bell pepper (for color and balance)
  • Shaoxing wine (1 tsp in the marinade or sauce for aroma)
  • Pinch of white pepper or MSG for added umami

Instructions:

Step 1 – Prepare the Bitter Melon:

  1. Slice the bitter melon in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and white pith.
  2. Cut into thin crescents, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 15 minutes to reduce bitterness.
  3. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.

Step 2 – Marinate the Beef:

  1. In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, sugar, and water.
  2. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes while prepping the other ingredients.

Step 3 – Stir-Fry:

  1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
  2. Add beef in a single layer and sear briefly (1–2 minutes) until mostly browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add another tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and black beans until fragrant (30 seconds).
  4. Add bitter melon and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Return beef to the wok, add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and stock.
  6. Stir-fry everything together for another 1–2 minutes until coated and heated through.
  7. Serve hot with steamed jasmine or brown rice.

Tips for Success:

  • Slice beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
  • Salt and rinse bitter melon to reduce its sharpness without losing its character.
  • Do not overcook the beef — a quick sear preserves its juiciness.
  • Use high heat and cook fast to retain texture and color.

Serving Recommendations:

  • Serve with:
    • Steamed jasmine rice or egg-fried rice
    • A cold cucumber salad or miso soup
    • Chili oil or soy-vinegar dipping sauce on the side
  • Great as part of a multi-dish Asian-style meal with tofu, stir-fried greens, or steamed fish.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate):

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Carbs: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Note: Sodium can be reduced by using low-sodium soy/oyster sauces and rinsing the black beans thoroughly.

Leave a Comment