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Atcharang Ampalaya | Quick Pickled Bitter Gourd

A quick sweet-tangy pickled bitter gourd with crisp vegetables—perfect as a refreshing Filipino side.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Filipino
Keyword: ampalaya recipe, atcharang ampalaya, filipino pickles, pickled bitter gourd, side dish
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 large ampalaya bitter gourd, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot julienned
  • 1 red onion sliced
  • 1 thumb ginger cut into matchsticks
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon MSG optional
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup vinegar

Instructions

  • Combine all sliced vegetables in a clean container.
  • In a pot, boil water, vinegar, salt, MSG, sugar, and black pepper.
  • Pour the hot mixture over the vegetables.
  • Seal the container and let cool.
  • Refrigerate overnight before serving.

Notes

Pairs well with fried meats, seafood, or plain rice.
Letting it sit overnight improves flavor and balance.
Slice the ampalaya thinly for better texture and less bitterness.
Adjust sugar slightly if you prefer a sweeter pickle.