Stuffed Bitter Gourd with Fermented Black Beans

Ingredients:
300g bitter gourd*

150g chopped pork

1 hot red chilli

1T fermented black beans
Mixture1(1t chopped garlic, 1/2t salt, 1t sesame oil, 1/2T cornstarch)
Mixture2(1/2t salt, 1/2t sugar, 1/2C water)

[t = teaspoon; T = tablespoon; C = cup]

Method:
1)Remove ends and stem from bitter gourd; cut into slices 1/3-inch thick and remove seeds (discard). Place in boiling water to cover with 1/2t salt and cook 5 minutes; remove and place in cold water to cool; drain. Shred hot red chilli.

2)Add Mixture1 to chopped pork and lightly throw mixture against inside of bowl to thoroughly combine ingredients (filling).

3)Lightly dry bitter gourd and sprinkle cavities with cornstarch; stuff with filling.

4)Heat pan and 1/2C oil until medium hot; fry stuffed bitter gourd on both sides until meat is golden brown and vegetable is tender (about 3 minutes); remove.

5)Reheat pan and 2T oil; stir-fry fermented black beans and hot red chilli until fragrant; add bitter gourd slices and Mixture2. Cook 3 minutes over medium heat and remove to serving plate; serve.

Remark:

*If bitter gourd is unavailable, substitute with squash or zucchini.

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