Bitter Melon Salad 凉拌苦瓜

Ingredients

Makes 2 to 4 servings

• 2 small bitter melons,
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp vinegar
• 1/4 tsp Hon Dashi fish soup stock seasoning
• 1 red chili pepper, chopped
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• pinch of sesame seeds

Method

1. Wash the melons and cut lengthwise in half.
2. Scoop out the seeds, and slice into 1/4" bite size.
3. Blanch the sliced melons in boiling water for about 5 to 8 minutes, and shock them in cold water.
4. Remove the melons with a strainer as soon as cool to the touch. Set aside. 
5. In a bowl, mix the salt, garlic, vinegar, Hon Dashi seasoning, red chili pepper, and sesame oil with the melons well. 
6. Refrigerate the melons for about 30 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with more salt.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.