Difference Between Indian Bitter Gourd & Chinese Bitter Gourd

Growing Conditions

• Particular about their soil, these gourds take a long time from germination to maturity. They require very warm soil that is kept consistently moist. Cool soil often translates into germination failure, or at best, an even longer period of time to reach maturity. These gourds also require staking because they are vines and will trail along the ground. Staking the plants preserves the integrity of the fruit.

Pollination

• Like other gourds, bitters require pollination of female flowers by male flowers in order to produce. In areas where fruit will not set due to a lack of insects for pollination, the gourds must be hand pollinated. The male flowers are picked, and the centers of the male and female are gently brushed together to transfer pollen. The females are identified by a hard lump beneath the flower on the stem, which develops into fruit when pollination is successful.

Harvest

• Bitter gourds are not allowed to ripen, as the ripening process causes them to become unpleasantly pulpy and even more bitter. The interior of the fruit turns yellow, and the white seed mass turns red and very sweet. At this stage of ripeness, only the seeds are used. The gourd's flesh is preferred and harvested most often while the flesh and seeds are white and crisp.

Use

• Becoming more widely available in the southwest region of the United States, bitter gourds are an acquired taste. They contain a compound that is similar to quinine and is called momordicin; this compound causes the harsh bitter flavor. It is used in many Asian dishes, and miniature versions are stuffed and baked for individual servings. Overripe seeds are often sprinkled on salads.