Ginisang Ampalaya with Shrimp Recipe (Sauteed Bitter Melon)

This Filipino favorite, Sautéed Bitter Melon with succulent shrimp, combines the distinctive bitterness of ampalaya (bitter melon) in a quick and savory stir-fry. It’s a nutritious and flavorful dish that highlights the unique tastes of Philippine cuisine.

If there’s one veggie my kids run from, it’s bitter melon! But health nuts? They’re doing happy dances!

Bitter melon might have a reputation as an acquired palate, but don’t let that scare you. It’s loaded with flavor and nutrients. I used to hate it as a kid, but now I’m obsessed—I even grow ampalaya in my backyard. It dies off in winter but makes a triumphant comeback every summer, fueling all my ampalaya dishes. When fresh, it's not as bitter as you’d think—just crunchy, slightly bitter, and surprisingly sweet! 

And hey, if you can get your kids to eat it, you’ve hit a new parenting level!

What Is Bitter Melon?

Bitter melon, also known as bitter gourd, ampalaya in the Philippines, karela in India, or goya in Japan, is a unique and fascinating vegetable. Native to Asia and parts of Africa, it’s famous—or maybe infamous—for its strong, bitter taste.

But don’t let that scare you away! This bumpy green veggie is packed with health benefits. Bitter melon is rich in vitamins A and C, iron, and fiber. It’s also known for helping to regulate blood sugar levels, making it a popular choice for those managing diabetes. Plus, it’s low in calories, so it’s perfect if you’re looking to stay fit and healthy.

So, while its bitterness might take some getting used to, the nutritional payoff is totally worth it!

Recipe Ingredients

Here’s what you will need:

• Bitter Melons (Ampalaya): Choose younger, smaller bitter melons for a milder taste. Cut in thin slices and salt to reduce bitterness.
• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well. Devein and peel before cooking for the best texture. You can also use ground pork, ground beef or tofu. 
• Aromatics (Garlic and Onion): Essential for building a flavorful base. Sauté until fragrant for maximum aroma. Use yellow or red onion.
• Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a natural sweetness, but canned diced tomatoes are a convenient alternative.
• Eggs: Beaten large eggs help to mellow the bitterness and add a creamy texture to the dish.
• Oyster Sauce: Adds umami and a savory depth. Adjust to taste for saltiness. Use soy sauce if not available.
• Salt or Fish Sauce & Pepper: Season to taste, using fish sauce for an authentic Filipino flavor.
• Oil: Use olive oil or avocado oil for sauteing. 

See recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Ginisang Ampalaya with Shrimp?

1. Prepare the Bitter Melon: Slice the bitter melon in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and slice thinly. Add a teaspoon of salt, let sit for 20 minutes, then rinse and drain to reduce bitterness.

2. Saute Aromatics: Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium high heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté garlic until fragrant.
   

3. Add Shrimp: Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.

4. Cook Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes and oyster sauce to the pan and cook until softened.

5. Pour Water. Add some water and let it boil.

6. Cook Bitter Melon: Add the bitter melon slices to the pan. Stir well, cover, and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the bitter melon is tender but still slightly crisp.

7. Add Eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the pan, stirring gently until the eggs are cooked and incorporated into the dish.

8. Season and Serve: Season with ground black pepper and salt to taste. Serve hot with steamed rice.

How Can You Reduce the Bitterness of Bitter Melon?

You can't completely eliminate the bitterness of bitter melon—it's called bitter melon for a reason. However, you can reduce its bitterness with these options.

• Salt It: Sprinkle salt on sliced bitter melon and let it sit for 20-30 minutes and then wash ampalaya  in cold running water.  This draws out the bitterness, leaving it more palatable.
• Blanch It: Quickly boiling bitter melon in hot water for 2-3 minutes before cooking can mellow its bitter flavor.
• Pair It: Cooking bitter melon with strong flavors like garlic, onions, or tomatoes can help balance out its bitterness.
• Remove the Seeds: The seeds and white pith inside the bitter melon can be extra bitter, so scoop them out before cooking.
• Choose the Right Melons: Younger, smaller bitter melons tend to be less bitter than larger, mature ones.

What To Serve With This/ Popular Side Dishes

• Steamed Rice: The perfect staple to soak up the flavorful sauce and balance the bitterness of the bitter melon.
• Garlic Fried Rice: Adds a savory kick and complements the dish’s flavors.
• Plain Rice Noodles: For a different texture and to add a light, chewy element to the meal.
• Pickled Vegetables: A tangy side like atchara (pickled papaya) can provide a refreshing contrast to the bitterness of the papaya.
• Fried or Grilled Fish: A simple, lightly seasoned grilled fish can add a delicious, crisp contrast.
• Side Salad: A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette can brighten up the meal and add some crunch.
• Egg Drop Soup: A light and soothing soup can round out the meal nicely.

Storage Instruction

Store leftover Ginisang Ampalaya with  Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Other Popular Filipino Dishes with Ampalaya

Here are some other delicious simple recipe featuring bitter melon (ampalaya):

• Pinakbet: A classic Filipino vegetable stew featuring bitter melon, along with eggplant, string beans, and squash in a savory bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) sauce. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish.
• Rellenong Ampalaya: Stuffed bitter melon filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, shrimp, and spices. The stuffed melons are then steamed or baked until tender.
• Ampalaya Con Carne: A Filipino stir-fry dish with bitter melon, beef strips, and a savory sauce. It’s a heartier take on the classic bitter melon recipes.
• Ampalaya Salad: Thinly sliced bitter melon mixed with tomatoes, onions, and a tangy vinegar dressing. It’s a refreshing side dish or appetizer.
• Ampalaya Stuffed with Ground Pork: Bitter melon halves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground pork, shrimp, and spices, then steamed or baked.
• Ampalaya and Egg Stir-Fry: A simple stir-fry with bitter melon, scrambled eggs, and a touch of soy sauce for a quick and easy meal.

FAQ

More Filipino Favorites

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

Seafood Recipes

Recipe

Ginisang Ampalaya with Shrimp Recipe (Sauteed Bitter Melon)

Rose

This Filipino favorite pairs the distinctive bitterness of ampalaya (bitter melon) with succulent shrimp in a quick and savory stir-fry. It's a nutritious and flavorful dish that showcases the unique tastes of Philippine cuisine.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 people

Calories 195 kcal

Equipment

• 1 pot or skillet

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 2 medium bitter melons or ampalaya slice, white pith and seeds removed
• ½ lb shrimp peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil avocado or olive oil
• 1 medium medium onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped or canne diced tomatoes
• 3 tablespoon oyster sauce or soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cups water
• 2 eggs beaten
• Salt to taste

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Bitter Melon: Slice the bitter melon in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and slice thinly. Add a teaspoon of salt, let sit for 20 minutes, then rinse and drain to reduce bitterness.
• Saute Aromatics: Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium high heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté garlic until fragrant.
• Add Shrimp: Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
• Cook Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes and oyster sauce to the pan and cook until softened.
• Pour Water. Add some water and let it boil.
• Cook Bitter Melon: Add the bitter melon slices to the pan. Stir well, cover, and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the bitter melon is tender but still slightly crisp.
• Add Eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the pan, stirring gently until the eggs are cooked and incorporated into the dish.
• Season and Serve: Season with ground black pepper and salt to taste. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 195kcalCarbohydrates: 25.6gProtein: 8.5gFat: 7.9gSaturated Fat: 1.2gCholesterol: 24mgSodium: 11804mgPotassium: 395mgFiber: 5.5gSugar: 2.2gIron: 5mg

Keyword ginisang ampalaya, ginisang ampalaya with shrimp, sauteed bitter gourd, sauteed bitter melon

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!