This is the fruit, leaves and, at the top, flower of bitter melons, also called bitter gourd.I received the seeds from DSIL and she told me to soak them for 5 days before planting. The seeds sprouted vigorously and came up like gangbusters. After fruits began to appear I took a bowl to my DSIL, a mix of green and some bright yellow fruits.
The internet tells me that people in a number of East Asian and South Asian countries use the green (underripe) ones as food. Supposedly the vegetable is good for digestion. There are videos on the internet of people planting it, and people cooking the green ones. Boy was I surprised to learn that DSIL was not interested in the green ones! She tells me that her ancestors treasured the really ripe ones as medicines. Though one of the medicinal uses is supposed to be taking it in small doses as a stomach tonic.
We don't know about these things. I am just glad that I can grow it and don't have to figure out how to cook it.
On another topic, I am up to my ears in about three simultaneous craft projects, and inspiration for more pincushions is dancing in my peripheral vision as well. Soon I hope to have a completed ... something ... to put up here. Even if it's just food or a garden photo like today's post.
No comments:
Post a Comment