Winter melons have a tangy flavor that can be enhanced by mixing with salty flavors.
These can be cubed and added to soups, used in stir-fries, or served with pork or beef dishes.
To retain its nutrients and flavor, it’s best to eat winter melons raw.
Ingredients (serves 2 to 4)
4 cups water
2 scallions, cut into 1-inch pieces
Handful of cilantro (leaves and stems)
1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
1 clove garlic, smashed with the side of a knife
6 white peppercorns, plus ground white pepper for garnish
1 ½ pounds winter melon (can substitute fuzzy melon)
1/3 cup dried sliced shiitake mushrooms
1 teaspoon soy sauce
¼ teaspoon salt
Directions
Set aside 4 of the green scallion pieces and a few cilantro leaves for garnish. (The scallion pieces should be thinly sliced before serving.)
Fill a saucepan with 4 cups of water and the remaining scallions and cilantro, plus the ginger, garlic, and 6 white peppercorns. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, for 30 minutes.
While the broth is simmering, peel the melon, remove the seeds and pulp, and cut into ½-inch chunks.
When the broth is ready, remove and discard the solids. Add the melon, mushrooms, soy sauce, and salt to the broth and simmer, partially covered, until melon is translucent and tender, about 20-30 minutes.
Taste and add more salt, if desired.
To serve, garnish with thinly sliced scallions, cilantro leaves, and ground white pepper.
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