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Fried Bitter Melon (Caraille)

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Fried bitter melon, also known as caraile, is a simple Caribbean side dish cooked with onions, garlic, pimento peppers, and tomato for balanced flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Breakfast, Side Dish
Cuisine: Caribbean

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium bitter melons caraille
  • 1/4 large onion chopped
  • 3 pimento peppers chopped
  • 5 cloves garlic chopped
  • 1 medium roma tomato chopped
  • 1-2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Equipment

Method
 

  1. Cut the bitter melon in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and soft inner parts.
  2. Chop into small pieces.
  3. Place in water and let soak for about 10 minutes.
  4. Drain and rinse the melon.
  5. Chop the onion, garlic, pimento peppers, and tomato.
  6. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
  7. Add onion, garlic, and pimento peppers and cook until the onion is tender.
  8. Add the bitter melon and stir to combine.
  9. Cook until the melon softens and starts to lightly brown.
  10. Add the chopped tomato and mix in.
  11. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Notes

  • For less bitterness, sprinkle the chopped bitter melon with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing.
  • Soaking also helps reduce bitterness.
  • Chop the melon small, so it cooks evenly and softens properly.
  • You can add saltfish for a heartier version.
Storage
  • Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat in a pan for the best texture.

Recipe Printed From ThisBagoGirl.com

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