Instructions: Re the question about bitter melon. It is definitely NOT a plantain. I was just trying to describe the shape. Maybe a better comparison would have been a cucumber, because you can slice bitter melon lengthwise and scoop out the seeds like you can with a cucumber. (Unlike with a cucumber you NEED to scoop out the seeds of a bitter melon.) Bitter melon is not dark green like cucumbers or zucchini, its more of a medium green - sort of like the color of green grapes or some plantains. It tapers to a point at both ends and is usually covered with little bumps. It doesnt have a separate skin like plantains or even cucumbers. You eat everything except the seeds. The seeds sometimes are red.

I really have no idea what vegetables its related to botanically. Maybe someone on the list knows. My best guess is that its some kind of squash.

I do know that the operative word in bitter melon is "bitter." It has a very pungent taste that takes some getting used to. But in a vegetable stew such as Pinakbet it really provides a fabulous mix of flavors, when combined with blander (see recipe) vegetables such as okra and eggplant.

Another good way to cook bitter melon is to slice it into 1/4 inch slices

(after it has been cut in half lengthwise and seeded) and then sauteed briefly with sliced onions and tomatoes to which are added scrambled eggs and other seasonings to taste. This is actually my favorite way to eat it.

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