Ginisang Ampalaya
Ginisang Ampalaya is a classic Filipino stir-fry made primarily with bitter melon (ampalaya), often cooked with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and eggs or ground meat. It is a staple home-cooked dish throughout the Philippines, known for its distinct bitter flavor balanced by savory ingredients. The dish is commonly served as a main course alongside steamed rice.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally low in carbohydrates and fat, with a moderate protein content depending on whether eggs or meat are added. It is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, and a typical serving contains roughly 100-150 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbs | 14 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin C | 45 mg |
| Vitamin A | 200 IU |
| Potassium | 380 mg |
| Folate | 40 mcg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Calcium | 50 mg |
| Magnesium | 30 mg |
| Phosphorus | 70 mg |
Per 1 cup (180 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Ginisang Ampalaya is valued in Filipino cuisine for its potential health benefits, as bitter melon is traditionally believed to help manage blood sugar levels. Nutritionally, it stands out for being packed with antioxidants and vitamins while remaining low in calories.
