Bitter melons boast the highest nutritional and medicinal value of any vegetable. It has long been used as a traditional medicine to fight diabetes. The flavor is true to its name though it is a pleasant bitterness. Bitter melon can become an acquired taste or craving much like black coffee or dark chocolate.
Uses: Bitter melon is best paired with strongly flavored foods such as fermented black bean, smoked meats, and soy sauce. Adding sugar while cooking can also temper the bitterness.