Bitter Melon

Bitter melon vinesBitter Melon is a member of the squash family and is very popular in Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, India, and Middle Eastern countries. Bitter Melon has a bumpy skin and ranges from light to dark yellowish green in color and oblong in shape as the bitter melon matures and ripens it turns yellow-orange. As the fruit ripens, it becomes tougher and very bitter. The two major varieties are the Chinese (smooth skin) and the Indian (bumpy skin). The former is longer and larger in size (usually 8 to 12 inches in length and 2 to 3 inches in diameter), smooth, light green in color, and oblong-shaped with a distinct warty appearance. The latter is shorter and smaller in size with rough skin, dark green coloration, and pointed ends. Both types have ridges, but Chinese bitter melon ridges are smooth, and Indian bitter melon ridges are pointed. Bitter Melon is very common in Asian and Indian dishes.