Goya Bitter Melon
Goya, better known to Westerners as bitter melon, is one of Okinawa’s most famous vegetables and a major part of the Okinawan diet. While many foods contribute to the excellent health of locals, bitter melon is perhaps the most honored and revered.
The distinctive bitter taste of goya can take some getting used to, but it’s definitely worth adding to your regular diet. You’ll find quite a few ways to prepare bitter melon to help neutralize the bitterness and chalky texture, so you can enjoy this healthy food.
What Is Goya?
Bitter melon, or bitter gourd, is a member of the gourd family. It looks somewhat like a thick green cucumber with a very bumpy texture, and it grows on vines. You’ll find goya in abundance in Asian supermarkets and grocery stores during spring and summer, and occasionally in health food stores and other supermarkets that feature international vegetables and fruits.