Ingredients

  • 3 bitter melons
  • 9 ounces fresh shrimp, peeled
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 2 teaspoons fresh grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or 1 tablespoon cilantro
  • peanut oil (for frying)

Method

  • Cut the melon lengthwise and remove the seeds and fiber.
  • Place in a brine of 1 tablespoon salt and a cup of water. Adding more water to cover.Let the bitter release into the water for 1-2 hours.
  • Rinse and towel dry. place on a paper towel while preparing the paste.
  • Cut again lengthwise to form long beds to place the shrimp paste.
  • Place the remaining ingredients except the oil in a blender or food processor and pulse to form an even paste.
  • Heat oil over medium high heat.
  • Top each melon slice with shrimp paste.
  • Place melon side down in hot oil and fry for 3 minutes,.
  • Turn 1/3 way and fry for 1-2 minutes.
  • Turn another 1/3 way and fry 1-2 minutes.
  • Turn back to melon side and fry 1 more minute.
  • remove and drain on paper towel.
  • Serve as finger food or as a side to a meal.