Best Easy Bitter Melon and Pork Rib Soup Recipe

Bitter melon and pork ribs simmer together, the bitterness mellowing into a savory, balanced broth. This protein-rich, healthy family soup is traditionally believed to lower cholesterol and support diabetic-friendly eating.

Cook 90 min Difficulty NORMAL 242 kcal
#diabetic friendly #high protein #low carb #bariatric friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • pork spare ribs 1.5 lbs
  • bitter melon 2 pieces
  • onion 0.5 cup
  • garlic cloves 3 cloves
  • carrot 1 pieces
  • water 8 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 1 tsp
  • white pepper 0.25 tsp
  • soy sauce 1 tbsp
  • scallions 2 pieces
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 7 g 11%
Protein 23 g 38%
Fat 13 g 51%
Serving size 350g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse pork ribs under cold water, pat dry, and cut into 2-inch pieces. Place the ribs in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Simmer for 5 minutes to remove impurities, then drain and rinse ribs.

  2. 2

    Add 8 cups of fresh water, blanched pork ribs, and onion to a clean pot. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower to a gentle simmer, skimming any foam for a clear broth.

  3. 3

    Slice bitter melon in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and cut into ½-inch slices. Sprinkle slices with a little salt, leave for 15 minutes, then rinse and squeeze gently to reduce bitterness.

  4. 4

    Add sliced bitter melon, carrot pieces, and garlic cloves to the simmering broth. Continue simmering, partly covered, for 60–75 minutes until the ribs are tender and broth is flavorful.

  5. 5

    Season with soy sauce, salt, and white pepper. Taste and adjust. Add chopped scallions just before serving and let sit for 2 minutes with the heat off for a fresh aroma.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The essential ingredients are bitter melon and pork spare ribs. The ribs provide the deep savory umami and body to the broth, while bitter melon lends a signature mellow bitterness and unique texture that defines the soup’s flavor.
Q. How can I avoid overcooking the pork ribs or making the bitter melon too mushy?
Simmer the pork ribs gently for about 60–75 minutes until just tender; avoid boiling hard, which can toughen the meat. Bitter melon is added after the ribs start to soften—adding it too early can make the melon too soft. Slicing the melon to ½-inch and salting beforehand helps retain texture without excess bitterness.
Q. How many calories and how much protein are in each serving?
Each serving contains about 242 kcal and 23 grams of protein, making this soup notably protein-rich while also being moderate in fat and very low in carbohydrates. It fits well with high protein, low carb, and diabetic-friendly diets.
Q. Which seasoning brings out the best flavors in the soup?
A combination of salt, white pepper, and a touch of soy sauce subtly enhances the savory notes. White pepper is traditional and complements the mild bitterness, while the finishing scallions add freshness to the aromatic broth.
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