| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 40 mins – 60 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 180 | 7g | 1g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 5g | 10g | 0.32g |
There’s something undeniably refreshing and satisfying about my recipe for Braised Winter Melon. Being a native of Portland, Maine, you might know me better for my seafood decorum, but I assure you, my culinary expertise extends far beyond the coastal favorites of New England. This vegetable-based dish not only exudes a delightful flavor profile but is also loaded with impressive health benefits. And did I mention how fabulously it pairs with crusty bread or grilled fish?
A Bounty of Health Attributes
Winter melon, also known as ‘Ash Gourd’, is a unique vegetable abundant in nature’s goodness. Known for its cooling nature, winter melon has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for generations, especially for its potential to make your skin glow from within. It also packs a punch with vitamins and minerals, right from B-complex components to mush needed dietary fibers. Paired with the lean protein source of chicken broth and the good fats from sesame and vegetable oil, this Braised Winter Melon recipe shines as a nourishing main course or a heart-warming side.
Diverse Flavor Profile
The amalgamation of ingredients in this dish lends it a rich and diverse flavor profile. The mellow sweetness of winter melon braised in chicken broth, contrasted with the savory complexity of soy and oyster sauce, harmoniously dances on the palate. The fresh, minced ginger and garlic give it that warm undertone, whereas the green onions add a layer of freshness. The small hint of sugar adds that slight sweet edge that balances so well with the wee bit of salt we add.
The flavors are reminiscent of various Asian broth-based dishes like Hot and Sour Soup or Pho. Best of all, this Braised Winter Melon recipe could seamlessly fit into any meal. On colder evenings, why not pair it with a serving of oven-baked salmon or a bowl of brown rice for a comforting dinner? The delicate sweetness of the braised melon complements the umami saltiness of salmon and the earthy taste of brown rice.
In essence, this Braised Winter Melon is a versatile dish, packed with health benefits and a stunning taste profile. It’s evocative, comforting and a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can create intriguing, delicious food.
What You’ll Need
- 2.5 lbs of winter melon
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of cold water
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 inch of fresh ginger, peeled and minced
Method
Step One
Begin by washing the winter melon thoroughly. After that, slice it into 1-inch pieces, discarding the seeds.
Step Two
Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium high heat. Add in the garlic and ginger and stir fry until the aroma comes out.
Step Three
Add the winter melon pieces into the pan, cook them for around 2 minutes until they are coated with the garlic and ginger flavor.
Step Four
In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and salt. Once they’re thoroughly combined, pour this mixture into the pan with the winter melon.
Step Five
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the winter melon is tender.
Step Six
While the winter melon is simmering, make a cornstarch slurry by mixing the cornstarch with the cold water until it’s smooth.
Step Seven
Once the winter melon is tender enough, add the cornstarch slurry into the pan. This will thicken up the sauce. Stir well to ensure that all the winter melon pieces are coated with the sauce.
Step Eight
Turn off the heat, then add the green onions and sesame oil. Stir well to combine everything together.
Step Nine
Serve the braised winter melon hot as a main dish or as a side dish. Enjoy!
