Braised Wintermelon (家常烧冬瓜)

Wintermelon has a mild flavor and a soft, tender texture when fully cooked. It easily absorbs sauces, making it perfect for simple braised dishes like this one.

Ingredients

Wintermelon - about 2 pounds

Soy sauce - 2 TBSP

Salt - as needed

Chicken broth or water - 1 cup

Optional additions: minced garlic, oyster sauce, a drizzle of sesame oil, or chopped green onions for garnish

Steps

1. Peel off the tough green skin and cut the melon into roughly 2x2-inch cubes. On the flesh side, carefully score a “#” pattern about halfway through the melon’s thickness—do not cut all the way through.

2.Heat 1 tbsp oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Place the melon pieces skin side down and pan-fry until the bottom is golden brown

3.Add water or chicken broth and soy sauce to the pan. Cover and simmer gently until the melon becomes soft enough to pierce easily with a chopstick and has absorbed the sauce flavor (about 10–15 minutes).

4. Spoon the melon and sauce in serving bowl and enjoy warm.