The Gourmet Mama

The horned or bitter melon is a very odd looking fruit but it is really quite tasty. The shell of this oval shaped fruit is covered with spikes and the green, jellylike flesh has a tart flavor with a hint of sweetness. The seeds inside the jelly are edible but the shell is definitely not!

The availability of this unique fruit varies throughout the year depending on where you are looking for it. Specialty markets have a better chance of carrying it. When you are choosing a horned melon, select bright orange to bright yellow fruit that has its spikes intact. Avoid fruit with blemishes or soft spots.  Never refrigerate horned melon, though you can store it at room temperature for up to 6 months.

Grilled Beef with Horned Melon Sauce

Serves 4

Sauce:

1 horned melon
3 Tblsp. lime juice
1 green onion, minced
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1 garlic clove, minced

Beef:
1 horned melon
1 lb. lean beef, fat trimmed
4 c. lettuce, shredded
1 cucumber, cubed

Sauce
Cut one melon in half and scoop out the pulp inside. Put the pulp and remaining sauce ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth.

Beef
Cut melon in half and slice across thinly to create thin crescent shapes. Peel the crescents.

Cut beef into thin slices and grill until tender, but done. Serve atop lettuce, with cucumber and melon slices. Drizzle sauce over the entire plate.