Goya Champuru (Stir-Fried Bitter Melon with Pork and Tofu) Recipe

A traditional Okinawan stir-fry combining bitter melon, pork, tofu and egg in a simple savoury seasoning. The tofu becomes golden and absorbs the soy and sesame flavours while the bitter melon adds a distinctive bitter note.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 2
Cuisine: Japanese
Course: Main Dish

Tags: Goya Champuru · Bitter Melon · Tofu Recipes · Pork Recipes · Japanese Recipes · Stir Fry

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry

• 1 fresh bitter melon or 1 tin bitter melon in brine
• 300g tofu, cut into 15mm slices
• 300g pork loin, thinly sliced
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar

Alternative Protein

• Luncheon meat can be used instead of pork, thinly sliced

Method

1. Prepare the bitter melon

If using fresh bitter melon, cut it in half lengthways.

Scrape out the seeds and inner flesh with a spoon.

Slice the bitter melon into thin pieces.

Place the slices into a plastic bag with 1 tsp salt.

Shake vigorously for 3–4 minutes.

Wash the bitter melon thoroughly, drain and set aside.

If using tinned bitter melon, drain and rinse before using.

2. Cook the pork and bitter melon

Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat and add 2 tsp cooking oil.

Add the sliced pork and cook for approximately 1 minute.

Add the bitter melon and stir-fry together with the pork.

Add a little water, cover the pan with a lid and simmer until the bitter melon becomes tender.

Transfer the pork and bitter melon to a plate and set aside.

3. Fry the tofu

Add some more oil to the pan.

Place the tofu slices in the pan and fry on both sides until golden brown.

Return the cooked bitter melon and pork to the pan.

4. Season the stir-fry

Add the soy sauce, salt, sesame oil and sugar.

Gently mix and allow the tofu to absorb the seasoning for approximately 2 minutes.

Avoid over-mixing, as the tofu can easily break apart.

5. Add the eggs

Pour the beaten eggs into the pan.

Cover with a lid and cook gently for approximately 2 minutes, until the eggs are cooked.

6. Serve

Remove from the heat and serve immediately.

Notes

• Reduce the bitterness: Salting and rinsing fresh bitter melon before cooking helps reduce some of its bitterness.
• Use firm tofu: Firm tofu holds its shape better during frying and stirring.
• Handle gently: Avoid vigorous stirring once the tofu has been added.
• Alternative protein: Pork can be replaced with thinly sliced luncheon meat.
• Tinned bitter melon: Drain and rinse well before cooking.