Ginisang Ampalaya (Bitter Melon Stir-Fry)

Ingredients

• 2 Bitter melon (ampalaya)
• 1/2 lb Ground pork
• 2 Tomato
• 1 Onion
• 3 cloves Garlic
• 2 tbsp Soy sauce
• 1/4 tsp Ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp Cooking oil
• 1/2 cup Silken Tofu

Instructions

1. 1Prepare the bitter melon: Slice the 2 bitter melon thinly into half-moon shapes. Use a spoon to scrape out and discard the seeds. Place the sliced bitter melon in a bowl and cover with water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt (not listed in ingredients, but assumed for soaking) and let it soak for 15 minutes to reduce bitterness. After soaking, rinse the bitter melon thoroughly under cold water and drain well.
2. 2Prepare the aromatics and pork: Peel and finely chop the 1 onion. Peel and mince the 3 cloves garlic. Slice the 2 tomatoes into wedges.
3. 3Cook the aromatics and pork: Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat (375°F / 190°C). Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. 4Brown the pork: Add the 1/2 lb ground pork to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until it is browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat if desired.
5. 5Add vegetables and seasonings: Add the sliced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the drained bitter melon and stir to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bitter melon is tender-crisp. Pour in the 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and add the 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Stir well to coat everything and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. 6Incorporate the tofu: Gently crumble the 1/2 cup of silken tofu into the skillet. Stir carefully to distribute the tofu evenly throughout the mixture without breaking it down too much. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the tofu is heated through.
7. 7Serve the dish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Ginisang Ampalaya hot.

Substitutions

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