Organic White Bitter Gourd ( Momordica charantia ) – offered by Gaia, a rare and precious Japanese variety
White bitter melon , native to Japan , is a unique heirloom variety distinguished by its pearly white skin and slightly more bitter flavor than the classic bitter melon. It is widely consumed in Okinawa , a region renowned for its longevity , where it is incorporated into many dishes for its medicinal properties .
In addition to being a staple in Asian cuisine , it is traditionally used to regulate blood sugar and support digestion . Its vigorous growth makes it a climbing plant that requires a trellis , ideal for vertical vegetable gardens in warm climates .
Did you know?
White bitter melon is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and active compounds , known for their beneficial effects on sugar metabolism . It is often eaten in soup, stir-fried with vegetables, or grated raw into refreshing salads .
Spread : Climbing plant requiring support
Plant height : 1.50 to 2.50 m
Quantity per pack : ± 20 seeds
Companion plants : Beans, radishes, squash, peas
Enemy plants : Potato, aromatic herbs, cucumber
Cultivation method
Seeds should be sown indoors 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost , then transplanted into the ground once night temperatures are above 15°C .
White bitter melon prefers rich, well-drained soil , with full sun exposure . As the fruits tend to elongate, it is advisable to grow this plant on a trellis to obtain straight and uniform fruits . Regular watering is essential to ensure optimal growth, without excess moisture.
Harvesting and conservation
The fruits should be harvested young , when they are 20 to 25 cm long , before they begin to turn yellow and become too bitter .
They will keep for a few days in the refrigerator , but are best eaten fresh . For longer storage, they can be cut and frozen , or dried and powdered for medicinal use.
Why grow white bitter melon?
✔ Rare variety, prized for its nutritional and medicinal benefits
✔ Unique flavor and slightly more bitter than classic bitter melon
✔ Ideal climbing plant for a productive vertical garden
✔ Rich in antioxidants and used in Okinawan cuisine for longevity
With its distinctive taste, vigorous cultivation and health benefits , white bitter melon is a valuable variety for gardeners and lovers of authentic Asian cuisine!
Japanese-Style White Bitter Melon Stir-Fry (Okinawa Goya Champuru)
Goya Champuru is an iconic Okinawan dish , where white bitter melon is stir-fried with tofu, eggs, and pork or vegetables. This simple, balanced recipe highlights the crunchy texture and slight bitterness of white bitter melon, while blending harmoniously with the other flavors.
Ingredients (for 2-3 people)
- 1 white bitter melon (about 20 cm)
- 150 g firm tofu
- 100 g minced pork (or mushrooms for a vegetarian version)
- 2 beaten eggs
- ½ chopped onion
- 1 clove of garlic, chopped
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mirin (or honey diluted in a little water)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dried bonito flakes (optional, for serving)
Preparation
1. Prepare the white bitter melon
Cut the melon in half lengthwise , remove the seeds and white pulp with a spoon, then slice it into thin half-rounds (3-4 mm) . To soften its bitterness, soak it for 10 minutes in salted water , then rinse and drain.
2. Prepare the tofu
Meanwhile, lightly press the tofu with paper towels to remove excess water, then cut into medium cubes . In a hot skillet, sauté over medium heat until lightly browned . Set aside.
3. Cook the stir-fry
In the same pan, heat the sesame oil , then sauté the garlic and onion until translucent. Add the pork (or mushrooms) and cook until golden brown. Stir in the white bitter melon slices and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes , stirring well.
4. Add tofu and seasonings
Return the browned tofu to the pan, then pour in the soy sauce and mirin . Mix gently to coat all the ingredients. Then add the beaten eggs and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes , until set but still soft. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot
Sprinkle with dried bonito flakes for a more intense flavor (optional), then serve immediately with white rice and miso soup for a balanced meal.
💡 Tips :
✔ For a milder flavor, blanch white bitter melon in boiling water for 1 minute before sautéing.
✔ For a vegetarian version, replace the pork with plain tofu or shiitake mushrooms .
With this dish, discover all the richness of Okinawan cuisine , where health and flavors meet in perfect balance !