Have you ever thought about trying something completely different in your kitchen? Pickled bitter melon might just be the unique twist you’ve been looking for. With its bold flavor and surprising health benefits, these recipes will make you rethink this often-overlooked veggie!
Sweet and Spicy Pickled Bitter Melon

Ampalaya Atchara (Pickled Bittermelon, Bitter Gourd) from Taste by Trish
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Bitter gourd, banana peppers, red bell pepper, coconut sugar, red onion Total Time: 50 min.

Pickled Bitter Melon Salad Recipe from The Spruce Eats
Rating: 3.9. Ingredients: Bitter melon, radish, carrot Total Time: 20 min.

Pavakkai Urukkai from My Cooking Journey
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Bitter melon, brown sugar, tamarind paste, chili powder, mustard seeds Total Time: 40 min.
Imagine a taste that dances on your tongue, combining sweet, spicy, and tangy all in one bite! This recipe features bitter melon marinated in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and chili flakes, creating a delightful contrast to its natural bitterness. You’ll need just a handful of ingredients: fresh bitter melon, rice vinegar, sugar, chili flakes, and a pinch of salt.
What makes this pickled treat special is the balance of flavors. The sugar cuts through the bitterness, while the chili adds a kick that keeps your taste buds on their toes. Serve it as a side dish or a topping for rice bowls, and watch your friends marvel at your culinary skills!
Citrus Zing Pickled Bitter Melon

Ampalaya Atchara (Pickled Bittermelon, Bitter Gourd) from Taste by Trish
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Bitter gourd, banana peppers, red bell pepper, coconut sugar, red onion Total Time: 50 min.

Pickled Bitter Melon Salad Recipe from The Spruce Eats
Rating: 3.9. Ingredients: Bitter melon, radish, carrot Total Time: 20 min.

Bitter Gourd Pickle | Bitter Melon Pickle (Karela Pickle) from Dassana's Veg Recipes
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Bitter melon, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, green chilies, chili powder Total Time: 55 min.
Are you ready to brighten up your meals? This refreshing recipe brings the zing of citrus to the earthy taste of bitter melon. By mixing the melon with fresh lime juice, orange zest, and a splash of honey, you’ll create a tangy pickled delight that’s perfect for summer salads or as a zesty topping for tacos.
The combination of citrus and honey in this recipe not only enhances the flavor but also adds a natural sweetness that complements the bitterness beautifully. It’s like a burst of sunshine in every bite! Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be stored for weeks, so you can have a healthy side ready whenever you need it.
Garlic and Herb Infused Pickled Bitter Melon
Quick Pickled Vegetables from Feasting At Home
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Green beans, red wine, star anise, fennel seeds, vinegar Total Time: 20 mins.
Stir-Fried Bitter Melon from Serious Eats
Ingredients: Fermented black beans, ground pork, asian fish sauce, ginger, rice wine Total Time: 20 mins.
Savory Sautéed Bitter Gourd with Tomatoes / Ampalaya / Bitter Melon from cookpad.com
Ingredients: Bitter melon, minced pork, gourd, beef broth, red onion Total Time: bitter melon, minced pork, gourd, beef broth, red onion.
If you love bold flavors, this recipe is calling your name! The garlic and herbs infuse the bitter melon with a savory depth that transforms it into a gourmet treat. You’ll need garlic cloves, fresh herbs like dill or thyme, white vinegar, and a touch of salt to create this extraordinary pickle.
This preparation is a hit for so many reasons! The aromatic garlic and fragrant herbs work wonders in mellowing out the bitterness, making it a great addition to grilled meats or as a unique appetizer. Just imagine serving it at your next gathering and impressing your guests with something they’ve never tasted before!
Sweet Mango and Pickled Bitter Melon Salad

Pickled Bitter Melon Salad Recipe from The Spruce Eats
Rating: 3.9. Ingredients: Bitter melon, radish, carrot Total Time: 20 mins.

Pickled Bitter Melon Salad from Punchfork
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Bitter melon, radish, carrot Total Time: 20 mins.

Spicy Thai Mango Salad from Every Last Bite
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Thai red, maple syrup, fish sauce, sesame oil, coconut aminos
Salads don’t have to be boring, and this recipe proves it! Combining sweet, ripe mango with tangy pickled bitter melon makes for an exciting dish that’s colorful and bursting with flavor. All you need are ripe mangoes, pickled bitter melon, a dash of lime juice, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to create this vibrant salad.
This salad is not just a feast for the eyes, but it’s also a delightful blend of sweet and sour flavors. The juicy mango balances the bitterness perfectly, while the sesame seeds add a nice crunch. It’s a fantastic dish that’s not only healthy but also a great conversation starter at any meal!