Why Is Chinese Okra Bitter

Turai should have a silky texture and slightly sweet flavor when cooked; if it turns out bitter it may be under- or overripe, or it might have sat out too long; make sure to peel and chop it just before cooking. I made some a couple of weeks ago that was so bitter that I threw it out–so disappointing!

How do you remove the bitterness from Chinese okra?

Use a sharp vegetable peeler, not a paring knife, to avoid waste. And make sure you get rid of all of the skin, which tastes like lawn clippings doused in Roundup. Discard any large seeds, which will contribute an untenable bitterness.

Is Chinese okra the same as ridge gourd?

Angled luffa is also called Chinese okra or ridged gourd. This excellent open pollinated variety is cultivated for the tenderness and sweet flavor of its fruit.