How Lemon Juice Takes Away Bitterness From a Bitter Melon

Bitter melon has been used in Asian cultures for centuries. The list of illnesses that bitter melon can combat grows annually, including everything from weight loss to HIV/AIDS. However, it is most well known for counteracting Type 2 diabetes. The melon is shaped like a cucumber, but with gourd-like bumps on the surface.

Lemon Soak

• Choose a melon that is still firm. The more ripe the melon, the more bitter it will taste. Clean the melon and cut it into halves. Remove and discard the center and the seeds. Soak the meat of the melon in a half-and-half mixture of lemon and water for five to 10 minutes to leach out most of the bitter taste.

Lemon Garnish

• Clean and slice the melon. Soak the slices in a salt water solution for five minutes. Spritz the tops with lemon juice, carrot juice or apple juice to make the melon more palatable.