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Ginisang Ampalaya Recipe
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Perfect Ginisang Ampalaya Recipe with the Secret to Less Bitterness

This Ginisang Ampalaya Recipe combines fresh bitter gourd, juicy shrimp, tomatoes, garlic, onions, and eggs in a flavorful shrimp broth made from the shrimp shells. Learn the simple secret to reducing bitterness while keeping the ampalaya nutritious and delicious. Perfect for a healthy Filipino lunch or dinner.
Author Onyok Kokok

Ingredients

  • 1 large ampalaya bitter gourd, sliced and gently pressed (optional)
  • 1 large bulb garlic chopped
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 3 large tomatoes chopped
  • 6-7 large shrimps peeled and chopped (reserve the shells)
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce add more to taste
  • Ground black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of sugar
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • Cooking oil

Instructions

  • Slice the ampalaya in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Slice thinly and gently press to reduce some of the bitter juices. Set aside.
  • Peel and chop the shrimp. Reserve the shrimp shells.
  • Heat enough cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped garlic and saute until lightly golden brown.
  • Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent.
  • Add the chopped tomatoes. Cover the pan and cook until the tomatoes become soft.
  • Mash the softened tomatoes using the back of a spoon to create a flavorful sauce.
  • Add the chopped shrimp.
  • Season with fish sauce, ground black pepper, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of sugar.
  • Cover and cook for about one minute.
  • Place the reserved shrimp shells in a bowl.
  • Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the shrimp shells.
  • Press the shells gently using a spoon to extract as much shrimp flavor as possible.
  • Strain the shrimp broth directly into the pan.
  • Cover and bring everything to a gentle boil.
  • Add the sliced ampalaya on top.
  • Do not stir immediately. Let it cook for several minutes without disturbing it to help prevent excessive bitterness.
  • Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the ampalaya.
  • Cover the pan for about one minute until the eggs begin to set.
  • Using a spatula, gently fold everything together. Avoid overmixing.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  • Serve immediately with hot steamed rice.