Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and challenge your palate? This extraordinary Filipino dish combines the rich, savory notes of tender chicken with the distinctive bitter punch of ampalaya (bitter melon), creating a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of the Philippines. Perfect for adventurous home cooks and those looking to explore authentic Asian cuisine, this recipe promises a unique dining experience that balances bold tastes and nutritional goodness in every single bite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Filipino
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 medium ampalaya (bitter melon), sliced
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by washing the chicken pieces thoroughly and patting them dry with paper towels. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, ensuring even coating.
- Prepare the ampalaya (bitter melon) by cutting it in half lengthwise, removing the seeds with a spoon, and then slicing it into thin half-moon shapes. Optional: To reduce bitterness, soak the sliced ampalaya in salted water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
- Heat cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onions, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet, spreading them evenly. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns golden brown and is nearly cooked through.
- Pour the oyster sauce over the chicken, stirring to ensure the meat is evenly coated. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sliced ampalaya to the skillet, mixing it gently with the chicken. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the ampalaya is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. The dish should have a balanced flavor of savory oyster sauce and slightly bitter ampalaya.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving plate. Serve hot with steamed white rice.
Tips
- Bitter Melon Mastery: To reduce the intense bitterness of ampalaya, soak sliced pieces in salted water for 10 minutes before cooking. This technique helps mellow the flavor without losing its distinctive character.
- Chicken Preparation: Always pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure better browning and prevent steaming instead of searing.
- Wok or Skillet Selection: Use a wide, flat-bottomed pan to allow even heat distribution and proper caramelization of chicken and vegetables.
- Oyster Sauce Tip: Add oyster sauce towards the end of cooking to prevent burning and preserve its rich, umami flavor.
- Doneness Check: Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with steamed jasmine rice to balance the dish's bold flavors and absorb the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 75mg
