Bitter Melon Soup

Direction

1. STEP 1
   Cut and discard ends of bitter melons. Carefully cut a slit lengthwise down each bitter melon, about halfway through. Use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds inside. Slice each bitter melon into 2-3 inch segments.

2. STEP 2
   Bring 2 quarters water to a boil in large pot. Add bitter melon segments and boil for 10 minutes. Transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.

3.  STEP 3
   Stuff the cavity of each bitter melon with the pork filling.

4. STEP 4
   Bring water in a large pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed bitter melons and  fish sauce, and sugar to the pot. Let it simmer for 25 minutes

5. STEP 5
   Pour in sauce and mix with greens. Cover with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the thick stalks are fork tender.

6. STEP 6
   Serve with chopped cilantro.

Ingredient

3-4 Bitter Melons, 5 cups Water, 3 Ts Fish Sauce, 1/2 Ts Sugar, 1/4 cups Scallions, 2Ts Chopped Cilantro, 1/8 ts pepper