Are you looking for new and exciting ways to cook with Goya, a versatile and flavorful Okinawan ingredient? Look no further! With its slightly sweet and nutty flavor, Goya (also known as bitter melon or bitter gourd) can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from soups and salads to stir-fries and main courses. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, we’ve got you covered with these 20 savory Goya recipes that are sure to inspire your next meal.
From classic Okinawan dishes like Goya Champuru (Okinawan Stir-Fry) and Pickled Goya (Goya no Sunomono), to creative twists like Goya and Spam Stir-Fry and Goya and Kimchi Stir-Fry, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to share with you. So get ready to explore the world of Goya cuisine and discover new flavors and recipes that will elevate your cooking game!
Goya Champuru (Okinawan Stir-Fry)
A classic Okinawan dish that combines the flavors of goya (bitter melon), tofu, and vegetables in a savory stir-fry. Goya Champuru is often served as part of a traditional Ryukyu meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized goya, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and lotus root)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the goya and mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Goya and Egg Stir-Fry
This quick and easy recipe combines the savory flavors of goya (also known as bok choy) with scrambled eggs, making for a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack. In just 15 minutes, you can have a tasty dish that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of goya (bok choy), cleaned and chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped goya and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until it starts to wilt.
3. Push the goya to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until they’re almost set.
4. Mix the eggs with the goya, season with salt and pepper, and add any desired additional flavorings (such as soy sauce or chili flakes).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Goya Salad with Sesame Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of Goya cherries with the nutty taste of sesame, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Goya cherries
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil and apple cider vinegar to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Top with cooked Goya cherries and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Goya Tempura
Experience the authentic taste of Japan with this simple Goya Tempura recipe. This classic Japanese dish is made by batter-frying goya (bitter melon) to create a crispy and flavorful snack.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 goya (bitter melon), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Gradually add soda water while whisking until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Dip each goya slice into the batter, coating it evenly.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry battered goya slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Goya and Tofu Soup
This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of goya (a type of black-eyed pea) with tender tofu, making it a perfect meal for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried goya
– 2 cups water
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the goya and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the goya again. In a large pot, combine the goya, water, onion, garlic, and vegetable oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Add the tofu and soy sauce to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Stuffed Goya with Pork
This recipe puts a delicious spin on traditional stuffed peppers by using goya (also known as Cuban sweet peppers) and pairing them with savory pork and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 goya (Cuban sweet peppers)
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the goya and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is fully incorporated.
5. Stuff each goya with the pork mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place stuffed goya in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Goya and Chicken Stir-Fry
This Asian-inspired stir-fry combines the flavors of goya (also known as Chinese broccoli) with juicy chicken, garlic, and ginger. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups goya (Chinese broccoli), stems and leaves separated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add goya stems and leaves to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Goya Chips (Okinawan-Style)
Experience the bold flavors of Okinawa with this simple recipe for crispy and addictive goya chips!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup goya (bitter melon) slices
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the water to form a batter.
3. Dip goya slices into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the battered goya slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Drain chips on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Goya and Shrimp Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines succulent shrimp with the savory goodness of Goya (a type of sweet potato) for a delicious and nutritious meal. In just 15 minutes, you can have a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium Goya, peeled and cubed
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Goya and cook until slightly tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pickled Goya (Goya no Sunomono)
Goya no Sunomono, a classic Japanese pickling recipe, transforms the humble goya (bitter melon) into a tangy and refreshing snack. This simple yet flavorful condiment is perfect for accompanying grilled meats, noodles, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized goya (bitter melons)
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Cut the goya into thin slices or chunks, depending on your preference.
2. In a large bowl, combine rice vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir until dissolved.
3. Add the sliced goya to the pickling liquid, making sure they are fully covered.
4. Grate the ginger over the goya and toss gently.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is a quick pickle that develops its flavor in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your delicious and tangy Goya no Sunomono!
Goya and Garlic Fried Rice
Elevate your fried rice game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, featuring the sweetness of Goya cherries and the pungency of garlic. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup diced Goya cherries
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Push the garlic aside, then add the Goya cherries and cook for 1 minute until they start to soften.
4. Push the cherry mixture aside, then pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix everything together, then stir-fry with the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the flavors are well combined and the rice is heated through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Goya and Spam Stir-Fry
A twist on traditional stir-fries, this recipe combines the savory flavor of Spam with the sweet and sour taste of Goya (long beans). This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 1 cup of Goya (long beans), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced Spam and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Goya, onion, and garlic. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Goya and Beef Curry
This flavorful curry recipe combines the richness of beef with the sweetness of goya (yam) and a blend of aromatic spices, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium-sized goyas, peeled and diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until they start to caramelize.
2. Add the garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced goyas, beef broth, and coconut milk. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the goyas are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Goya and Eggplant Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines tender eggplant with the rich taste of goya (also known as Asian-style fermented soybean paste). A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons Goya
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the eggplant from the skillet, leaving any excess oil behind.
4. In the same skillet, add the Goya, onion, and garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Return the eggplant to the skillet and stir to combine with the Goya mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Goya and Tuna Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of Goya mayonnaise with the savory flavor of tuna, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying this delicious salad in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 tablespoons of Goya mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1/4 cup of chopped celery
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the drained tuna, Goya mayonnaise, chopped onion, and chopped celery.
2. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Goya Miso Soup
Warm up with this comforting and savory Goya Miso Soup recipe, perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch. This Japanese-inspired soup is made with the rich flavors of miso paste, combined with tender noodles and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon Goya Miso Paste
– 1/4 cup soba noodles
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup diced green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to medium.
2. Add the miso paste and whisk until dissolved.
3. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions, then set aside.
4. Add the carrots, mushrooms, and salt to the boiling water. Simmer for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the cooked soba noodles and green onions.
6. Season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Goya and Pork Belly Stir-Fry
A fusion of sweet and savory flavors, this Goya and pork belly stir-fry is a perfect blend of Asian-inspired ingredients and classic comfort food. With tender chunks of pork belly and crunchy goya (bok choy), this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups Goya (bok choy)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork belly pieces and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add garlic and Goya to the same pan; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until Goya is tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour sauce over pork belly and Goya mixture in the pan.
5. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute to combine flavors.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Goya and Kimchi Stir-Fry
Experience a flavorful fusion of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) and spicy kimchi in this quick and easy stir-fry recipe. This dish combines the bold flavors of goya with the spicy kick of kimchi for a delicious and savory meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Goya
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken or tofu for added protein
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for another minute.
4. Add Goya and kimchi; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the goya is tender.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Goya and Sardine Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of goya (also known as okra) with the savory taste of sardines, perfect for a cozy dinner. This recipe is a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried goya
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (4 oz) sardines in oil, drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse goya and soak in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add soaked goya, sardines, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the goya is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Goya and Scrambled Eggs
This flavorful breakfast recipe combines the savory taste of Goya with fluffy scrambled eggs, perfect for a morning pick-me-up. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this delightful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup Goya (pickled peppers in vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat the butter or non-stick cooking spray in a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the pan and cook until the edges start to set, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the Goya peppers evenly over the eggs and use a spatula to gently fold them into the eggs.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the eggs are cooked through and the Goya is heated through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to explore the flavorful world of Goya! This article presents 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and savory goodness of Goya, a type of Japanese eggplant. From classic stir-fries to innovative dishes like tempura and miso soup, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or just looking for new flavors to try, this collection has something for everyone. Discover how Goya can elevate your cooking with its unique texture and taste.
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