Momordica charantia colloquially: bitter melon; bitter apple; bitter gourd; bitter squash; balsam-pear; with many more names listed below is a tropical and subtropical vine of the family Cucurbitaceae, widely grown in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean for its edible fruit. Its many varieties differ substantially in the shape and bitterness of the fruit.Bitter melon originated in India and was introduced into China in the 14th century. It is widely used in the cuisines of East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.Bitter melon has many names in other languages, which have sometimes entered English as loanwords. Following are a few:Some sources claim the flesh rind becomes somewhat tougher and more bitter with age, but other sources claim that at least for the common Chinese variety the skin does not change and bitterness decreases with age. The Chinese variety are best harvested light green possibly with a slight yellow tinge or just before. The pith becomes sweet and intensely red; it can be eaten uncooked in this state, and is a popular ingredient in some Southeast Asian salads.
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