BITTER MELON
BITTER MELON
Introduction
Origin
Properties
Consumption
Conservation
Introduction
From the Cucurbitaceae family, the Bitter Melon measures between 20 and 30 cm long, and has an oblong shape and a peculiar warty surface. Its white and juicy pulp forms a thin layer around the central cavity, where the numerous seeds are found, white or red depending on their state of maturity.
Origin
It is cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa and the Caribbean.
Properties
It has a large amount of vitamins B and C, minerals and natural antioxidants. It is also rich in iron, beta carotene and potassium.
Consumption
It is usually eaten green, at which time the pulp has a crunchy texture, similar to cucumber, although with a bitter taste.
In order to soften its flavor, it can be salted and washed before consumption.
In Chinese cuisine it is often used in soups and teas and in India with potatoes and served with yogurt to counteract its bitter taste.
Its consumption is also popular in Japanese, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Filipino, Nepalese, Pakistani cuisine and Amazonian regions.
Conservation
The best way to keep it is in a hermetically sealed bag in the fridge.
Availability period
National International
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Varieties
Availability period
National International
JanFebMarAprMayJun
JulAugSepOctNovDec
Nutritional and energetic values for 100 gr.
Nutritional and energetic values for 100 gr.