Friday, 3 November 2017

How to Fight Someone Taller Than You

Fighting a larger opponent is always a challenge, especially if they’re both bigger and taller than you. If height differential alone is your major disadvantage, though, there are ways to turn their taller stature into a weakness. First and foremost, you must get in close to negate their reach advantage. From there, you must strike quickly, keep your defenses up, move around nimbly, and work from your lower level to “chop the tree down.” Of course, everyone will benefit if you can find a way to avoid fighting in the first place.

EditSteps

EditFighting from Very Close Range

  1. Stay out of their primary strike zone as much as you can. A taller fighter’s longer arms are their primary advantage — they can hit you when you can’t reach them. You have to negate this advantage by fighting from close range so that they can’t extend their arms to hit you. But, when you’re not on the offensive, you need to move out beyond their range before quickly working your way back in.[1]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • Picture a ring around the opponent that approximates their ideal arm-extension zone. Never linger within this ring; fight from inside of it, and rest or regroup from the outside.
  2. Protect your head as you move in and out. As you traverse through their primary strike zone, you must be ready to deflect or absorb their punches. Keep your hands up and move your head and shoulders from side to side and up and down in a bobbing and weaving motion. Your opponent will fire away at your head out of habit — but will connect less often.[2]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • Keep your elbows in and against your ribs while bracing your hands against your jaw. If your elbows or hands drift away from your body, the effectiveness of your guard goes drastically down.
  3. Jab your way in close. A good jab is essential for any skilled fighter. You must set up your strikes by throwing out a solid jab. Each jab thrown requires a step forward with the lead foot. Use several jabs in succession with your step footwork in order to close in on your taller opponent and smother their long reach.[3]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • Get deep into their personal space by setting them up with the jab, and drop power shots to their ribs when they bring their defensive guard up to protect their face.
  4. Chop away at their “tree trunk” from close range. In many cases, you can quickly bring a taller opponent down to size by pummeling their midsection. Depending on your punching skills, use a flurry of hooks, crosses, and uppercuts to repeatedly strike their ribs and abdomen.[4]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • Especially if you’re more adept at kicking, hit their legs with kicks to slow them down and weaken their base. Go for the inner and outer thigh - avoiding the bonier knee or high shin. Only attack the knee if you intend to disable it (and your opponent).
    • And, unless it’s a sanctioned bout with rules, don’t worry about “fighting fair” — strike them in the groin with a punch or, even better, an uppercut knee.
  5. Use an overhand punch to hit them from above. A taller opponent naturally expects all of your strikes to come from below. However, by using a curving, sweeping, exaggerated punching motion, you can punch them with a somewhat downward motion them in the nose or jaw, or bat their ear with an open hand (which causes disorientation).[5]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • For an overhand punch, dip your off-hand shoulder and knee a bit more, bring your punching arm back, and unleash a swooping strike that curls in from the side and above.
    • Overhand punches take more time and leave you more exposed, however, so use them sparingly and when you are confident you can stun or knock down your opponent.
  6. Get back out of range only briefly, if needed. You can only attack for so long before you’ll tire and/or your opponent will begin landing blows on you. Right before exhaustion hits (or they start hitting you), step out of their reach — not just a step back — to regain your strength and stamina. DO NOT clutch or grab your opponent if they have a significant size or strength advantage. This will usually turn out badly for you.[6]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • The close-in attack approach is THE RULE for fighting taller opponents. You can wait for them to finish an attack (that you block/defend), or you can get them by (literally) beating them to the punch. Either way you must close the gap and get inside of their long reach to do damage.
  7. Get them on the ground. Your best bet for emerging from the fight relatively unscathed is to get the other person on the ground quickly, whether by punching, grappling, tripping, or whatever else it takes. From there, you can either escape or attempt to finish them off.[7]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • If you’re more adept at grappling than punching, you can use a tackle or clutch to get your opponent to the ground.
    • A good tactic is to ram them with your shoulder. In wrestling, this would be called a "spear.” Get low, ram your shoulder into the side of your opponent, wrap your arms around their legs if possible, and topple them.
    • Or, when bent over, rise upward quickly. Grab their shoulder, use your leg to trip them, and knock them off their feet for a getaway or to do even more damage.

EditAttacking Their Weaknesses

  1. Identify their shortcomings. Many taller people are unable to truly take advantage of their height in a fight. Quickly scan your opponent's face and eyes. Look at their stance (foot position), body language and distance away from you.[8]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • Is your opponent nervous? Angry? If you move in aggressively, does the opponent instinctively shift or move back and keep distance?
    • If they appear unsure, unprepared, and/or unsteady, they are probably unaware of how to maximize their height advantage. You can use this to give yourself a chance to take them by surprise.
    • If they are trained and prepared, you’ll have to focus even more on getting in close, staying low, and using quickness and leverage.
  2. Get down even lower. If you make yourself even shorter, they’ll have to reach down even further to strike you when you’re in close. This will affect their balance as they lower themselves, which in turn takes away their height advantage. Also, they will tend to lean forward. This will leave them open to uppercuts and affect their overall balance.[9]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 9 Version 2.jpg
    • Keep a low stance for a low center of gravity. This will further utilize your lack of height, making you harder to hit, and tougher to take off your feet.
  3. Be the aggressor. In nearly any fight — but especially against a taller (and probably less nimble) opponent — you should try to draw “first blood.” Speed is essential here. One punch is good but more punches are better. A combination of attacks or quick strikes will do more damage than one single strike, and may convince a tentative opponent to “throw in the towel.”[10]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 10 Version 2.jpg
    • As a surprise first blow, consider using an open-hand strike to either the throat or nose. Either target creates pain and disorientation in your opponent, and is less likely to hurt you than a punch to their jaw.
  4. Get back after your initial assault. Do not leave yourself open to a counter attack. Launch your fastest strike possible and immediately step back and return your hands to your face area for protection. While stepping back, circle around your opponent. Stay safely beyond their longer reach. Re-evaluate their condition (positioning, attitude, fighting spirit, etc.) and plan your next move.[11]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 11 Version 2.jpg
  5. Counter-strike their attack patterns. When your opponent is setting you up for attacks and throwing their strikes, you may notice a few patterns that they keep repeating. These are important to look for, because you can use these patterns to hurt your opponent with a counter strike. For instance, if you recognize a recurring wild, winging power-punch coming from their right hand, you can duck it and throw a counter-punch combo of your own.[12]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 12.jpg
    • Or, let’s say your opponent is always throwing a long jab punch and then letting their hands drop down to their waist area before returning their fist to their facial area. You could wait until the timing is right on their next jab and, after you avoid it, throw a power punch right over the top of their outstretched arm (as it begins its drop to their waist) and hit them square in the nose.
  6. Work the angles to access their weak areas. In order to create opportunities to get inside of the range of your taller opponent, avoid fighting head-on the whole time. Instead, step at an angle to one side while coming in — so that you are facing your opponent but aren’t directly in front of them. As you do so, look for opportunities to hit areas of weakness in your opponent’s defenses from these angles.[13]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 13.jpg
    • You should preferably be working angles that position you away from their power. So, if your opponent is throwing hard right crosses and hooks, you should be working angles that position you towards their left hand — away from the power.
    • When you come in from an angle, your opponent’s instinctive indicators that we all use to judge a target will be slightly less effective.
  7. Move your head and body constantly. Taller fighters tend to be a bit slower. Use constant movement to capitalize on this. Changing the level of your head while feinting and dodging can allow you to get in close without throwing a punch too soon.[14]
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 14.jpg
    • Circle around the opponent and never stop moving. You might be able to wear them down simply by keeping them off-guard with your ceaseless activity.
    • While you’re moving around, watch their hips and shoulders. These are great indicators of what they will do next.
    • Move in to strike quickly when you see the chance. As Muhammad Ali said, “Float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.”

EditAvoiding the Fight

  1. Find ways not to fight. Both parties are likely to be injured no matter how the fight goes, so finding a way not to fight is the best way. Talking is a better way out, when possible. If not, consider running away — you’re probably faster than a taller opponent.
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 15.jpg
    • Fighting can have major legal consequences, and can lead to serious — even permanent — injuries for one or both parties.
  2. Try to defuse the situation at the last minute. Motion and/or say to the other fighter that you don't want any trouble — even if a fight seems imminent. Do this by slightly waving your hands up by your face, palms outward, while backing away slowly. Tell them you don't want any trouble — but regardless of what they say or do, prepare yourself for a fight by planning your first strike.
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 16.jpg
  3. Get help. If you’re being dragged into a fight you don’t want, call out for assistance. Ask friends or strangers to help directly, or to call the police or other authorities (teachers, etc.). If you have to fight, make sure it is the only option and not just for your ego — for example, due to name calling.
    Fight Someone Taller Than You Step 17.jpg
    • Do everything you can not to fight; but when you have no choice, strike fast and first with everything you’ve got.
    • Or, in even simpler terms: don’t start fights — finish them.

EditTips

  • Get comfortable moving in very, very close on a taller fighter. You might be closer than you are comfortable with - but you WILL NOT defeat a taller opponent without wading in close. This jams up their reach and power. Self-defense or fighting classes are great for learning this skill.
  • Keep your eyes open. Often fighters close their eyes when attacked instinctively. Get yourself used to being hit with strikes while keeping your eyes open. Drills in an organized class are great for this.
  • Always remember, speed beats power. A swing with all your might behind it is useless if you can't land it. Your forte as the smaller opponent is getting in quick and hitting them where it hurts.

EditWarnings

  • Taller opponents are a significant challenge, so get comfortable sparring and study a martial art before trying to take on a bigger or taller opponent.

EditSources and Citations


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How to Roast Pistachios

Roasted pistachios are a delicious, healthy snack on their own and a great addition to salads, party mix, and baked goods. You can roast pistachios easily in the oven or a skillet. Before you roast them, prep them by removing the shells. Then, roast them until they turn light brown and give off a nutty smell. You can also add spices and seasoning to the roasted pistachios to take them to the next level.

EditSteps

EditRoasting Them in the Oven

  1. Roast the pistachios in the oven to save time. If you are roasting over pistachios, use the oven. Choosing the oven will allow you to bake a big batch of pistachios at once.
    Roast Pistachios Step 1.jpg
    • Place the oven rack in the middle of the oven. Have two racks in the oven on top of each other if you are planning to make two pans of pistachios so there is enough room.
  2. Preheat the oven to . It usually takes about 15-20 minutes for most ovens to preheat.[1]
    Roast Pistachios Step 2.jpg
  3. Spread the pistachios on a rimmed baking sheet. Put them in an even layer on the baking sheet. Make sure none of the pistachios are covering each other, as this will ensure they roast properly.[2]
    Roast Pistachios Step 3.jpg
    • You can line the baking sheet with parchment paper to make it easier for you to lift the pistachios off the sheet when they are done roasting.
    • You can use two baking sheets if needed, depending on how many pistachios you are roasting.
  4. Roast them for 6 to 8 minutes or until they become fragrant. Pop them in the preheated oven and watch them as they roast. Stir them with a spoon at the halfway mark so they roast evenly. They should take no longer than 8 minutes to roast fully.[3]
    Roast Pistachios Step 4.jpg
    • You will know they are done if they turn light brown and start to give off a nutty, fragrant smell.
    • You can also check that they are roasted by cutting one or two pistachios in half. They should be an even pale brown color throughout.
  5. Let them cool. The roasted pistachios will take about 15-20 minutes to cool on the counter. Once they are no longer hot, store them in an airtight container. They should keep for 1 to 2 weeks.[4]
    Roast Pistachios Step 5.jpg

EditUsing a Skillet

  1. Use a skillet if you have a small amount of pistachios to roast. A skillet is ideal if you are roasting a handful of pistachios. The skillet will roast a small amount of pistachios quickly.
    Roast Pistachios Step 6.jpg
  2. Place a nonstick skillet on the stove on medium heat. Use a skillet that is wide and has raised sides so the pistachios do not fall out of the skillet. Make sure it has a nonstick coating so the nuts do not get stuck to the pan.[5]
    Roast Pistachios Step 7.jpg
    • You do not need to put any cooking spray or butter in the skillet. Roasting the nuts in a dry skillet is more effective.
  3. Put the pistachios in the skillet. Place them in an even layer on the skillet. Check that the pistachios lay flat on the skillet and are not on top of each other.[6]
    Roast Pistachios Step 8.jpg
  4. Stir them constantly so they do not burn. As they start to roast, stand over the stove and use a spoon or a spatula to stir them around. You can also shake the skillet lightly by holding the handle and shifting the skillet around. This will ensure the nuts roast properly and do not get too hot.[7]
    Roast Pistachios Step 9.jpg
  5. Remove the pistachios once they turn light brown. This can take 6 to 8 minutes, depending on your stove. The pistachios will give off a nutty, roasted smell when they are done.[8]
    Roast Pistachios Step 10.jpg
  6. Allow them to cool. Take the pistachios off the skillet and put them on a plate to cool. Once they are no longer hot, store them in an airtight container for 1 to 2 weeks.
    Roast Pistachios Step 11.jpg

EditPreparing the Pistachios for Roasting

  1. Get plain pistachios. Buy pistachios that are raw and have no flavoring on them. You can find raw pistachios at your local grocery store or farmer’s market.
    Roast Pistachios Step 12.jpg
  2. Buy pistachios in bulk to save money. Pistachios are an expensive nut and can be costly if they are bought in small amounts. Getting them in bulk may save you money in the long run, especially if you like eating a lot of pistachios.
    Roast Pistachios Step 13.jpg
  3. Remove the shells on the pistachios. Take the shells off by finding the opening on the shell. The shell should gape open at one end. Hold the pistachio between your thumbs and pull the shell apart until it snaps off. Removing the shell will make it easier to roast the entire nut.[9]
    Roast Pistachios Step 14.jpg
    • You can also crack the pistachio shell between your back teeth if the opening is not very big. Be careful not to bite down too hard on the shell, as you can damage your teeth.
  4. Leave the shells on for a more subtle flavor. If you’d prefer the pistachios have a less intense roasted flavor, you can leave the shells on. However, the pistachios may not be roasted evenly or all the way through if you keep the shells together.[10]
    Roast Pistachios Step 15.jpg
    • If you are using the skillet method to roast the pistachios, you should remove the shells so they can roast properly in the skillet.

EditAdding Seasoning to the Pistachios

  1. Prepare sweet and smoky roasted pistachios. Line the baking sheet with parchment paper so the nuts do not stick and roast the pistachios in the oven. Coat unshelled raw pistachios with extra virgin olive oil, melted butter, honey, brown sugar, sea salt, and cinnamon.[11]
    Roast Pistachios Step 16.jpg
    • Let them roast for 10 minutes at . Stir them once and then roast them for another 5 minutes until they appear golden and caramelized.
    • Remove them from the oven and stir them once. You can sprinkle extra sea salt on them for some added smokiness.
    • Let the nuts cool and store them in an airtight container. They will last 1 to 2 weeks.
  2. Make curry flavored roasted pistachios. You will need to roast the pistachios in the oven on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Combine brown rice syrup, melted coconut oil, lime juice, mild curry powder, sea salt, and cayenne pepper. Pour the curry flavoring over raw pistachios.[12]
    Roast Pistachios Step 17.jpg
    • Roast the pistachios at for 25 minutes, stirring once at the halfway mark.
    • Remove them from the oven and sprinkle them with cane sugar. Let them cool and then store them in an airtight container. Expect them to stay fresh for 1 to 2 weeks.
  3. Make spicy roasted pistachios. Line the baking sheet with parchment paper and roast the nuts in the oven. Combine olive oil, salt, cumin, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and maple syrup. Pour the mixture over raw pistachios.[13]
    Roast Pistachios Step 18.jpg
    • Let the pistachios roast at for 30 minutes. Toss them at the halfway mark.
    • Remove the pistachios from the oven and let them cool. Then, store them in an airtight container. Don't keep them for longer than 1 to 2 weeks.

EditSources and Citations


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Thursday, 2 November 2017

How to Develop Good Study Habits for College

Effective studying is critical to success in college, and many new college students quickly find that their prior study habits need major adjustments. To begin making the change, find a quiet, organized space to study. Study with a positive attitude and specific goals in mind. If you need help, there's no shame in asking. Your professors and peers are there to help you learn. You can develop excellent habits that help you navigate the difficulties of entering college.

EditSteps

EditGetting Organized to Study

  1. Create a dedicated study space. Find a quiet space in your dorm room or somewhere on campus where you can focus. Studying in the same place every day trains your brain to associate a certain environment with work. This will help you get into the zone when you start studying.[1]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • Pick a place that's quiet and distraction free. The basement of your dorm may not be a good choice if it's a common place for socializing, but you could instead study at your desk in your dorm room.
  2. Find a regular time for studying. If you study at the same time each day, your brain will be prepped for learning when you sit down. Review your schedule and see when you have free time. Schedule an hour or two for studying during those times each day.[2]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 2 Version 3.jpg
    • You can study during gaps between classes or in the evening after your classes are done for the day.
    • In addition to finding times that work, find times when you're naturally more energetic. If you tend to get sleepy in the afternoon, do something relaxing for yourself around two o'clock and schedule study time sometime after dinner.
  3. Organize your materials. Make sure you have everything you need to study at your study space. If you're studying in a place in your home, keep things like your books, pencils, pens, and scrap paper in that area. If you go out to study, invest in a book bag with a lot of compartments and keep all your study supplies stored there.[3]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 3 Version 3.jpg
    • It can help to stop by a local office supplies store to get things like notebooks, pencil boxes, and other storage contraptions to keep yourself organized.
  4. Eliminate distractions. When readying your study space, it's important to keep it distraction free. Remove any technologies that will take your mind off your work, like your smart phone. You can even use apps to block distracting websites like Facebook while you're studying, forcing you to focus on academic websites instead.[4]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 4 Version 3.jpg
    • Keep other distracting material, such as outside reading, away from your study area.
    • If you go out of your dorm or apartment to study, do not take anything potentially distracting. Stick to your school supplies only and leave things like your iPod at home. However, if you are studying in a noisy place, you may want to bring your headphones if music helps you focus.
  5. Figure out your needs via trial and error. College is all about experimentation. It can take awhile to find your groove when it comes to studying. For a few weeks at the beginning of the semester, experiment with studying at different times and places until you figure out when and where you're more productive.[5]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 5 Version 3.jpg
    • For example, study in your dorm one day and a coffee shop the next day. Take note of which place you feel the most relaxed and engaged and make a habit of studying there regularly.

EditUsing Good Study Techniques

  1. Create one goal for each session. Your study sessions are most effective if they have some direction. Just blindly studying can be overwhelming and you may waste time fumbling to figure out where to start. Before each study session, figure out what topics are most pressing and set goals.[6]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 6 Version 3.jpg
    • For example, if you're studying for a math final, focus on one concept each day. You can study multiplication one day and things like division the next.
    • You can also set goals based on days of the week. Focus on your math and science courses on Mondays and Wednesdays and your humanities courses on Thursdays and Fridays, for example.
  2. Start with difficult material first. You'll be most energetic at the beginning of your study period. Therefore, it makes sense to begin by studying the most challenging materials. Tackle the most difficult subjects and topics first before targeting your strong points.[7]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 7 Version 3.jpg
    • For example, if you're really struggling understanding a concept for a philosophy class, study your notes and reading on that concept first. Then, you can move on to easier topics.
  3. Rewrite your notes. Studying requires a lot of memorization. It can help to simply rewrite your notes and reword them as you go. Read over all your notes for one session and then rewrite them on a separate sheet of paper. This will force you to engage with the material and write it in your own words again, which increases understanding and helps you remember what you've learned.[8]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 8 Version 3.jpg
  4. Use memory games. Memory games can help you remember tough concepts and terms. You can use visualization techniques or string together words that help you remember concepts. These can be highly useful for an exam.[9]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 9 Version 3.jpg
    • For example, a well known memory device is Kings Play Cards On Flat Green Stools, used to help you remember the taxonomy order used to classify species (Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species).
    • You can also use visualization. For example, you're trying to remember Jeanette Rankin was the first woman to serve in Congress and you have an Aunt Jeanette. Picture your Aunt Jeanette talking on the floor of Congress to help you remember.
  5. Take breaks. No one can study for hours on end without getting frustrated and burnt out. Breaks help you relax, recharge, and approach a situation with new eyes. Make a habit of studying for one hour and then taking a five minute break to do something you enjoy, like go on social media or text a friend.[10]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 10 Version 3.jpg
    • Set a timer to make sure you're on task. You don't want to study for too long, leading to frustration, or take a long break, which can ruin your concentration.
  6. Study with a positive attitude. If you see studying as a chore, you're likely to get frustrated and burn out. Instead of seeing studying as something you have to do, look at the positives. Think of this as a way to improve your skills and abilities and get the most out of your education.[11]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 11 Version 3.jpg
    • Studying can be stressful, and it's important to address and challenge stressful thoughts. For example, don't think, "I'm a mess. I'm never going to understand this." Instead think, "I'm sure if I work a little each day, I can figure out this material."
  7. Give yourself rewards. Studying feels easier if you have something to look forward to when you're done. Develop a reward system for yourself so you're motivated to get through your work.[12]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 12 Version 3.jpg
    • For example, agree that if you study for three hours, you can go to the cafeteria and have something like ice cream or pizza for a treat.

EditSeeking Outside Resources

  1. Refer to your syllabus as needed. It's important you understand the expectations of your course as you're studying. Use the syllabus as your guide if you feel overwhelmed or lost while studying. The syllabus will outline major concepts, grade breakdowns, and so on.[13]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 13 Version 3.jpg
    • For example, say you've been getting frustrated memorizing the years of major scientific breakthroughs for a science course. The syllabus says the goals of the course are to help you gain a better understanding of scientific theory. It's more important for you to understand the overarching theories than know the exact dates.
  2. Form a study group. Find peers who are hard workers and do well in the course. Ask them to form a study group. The right study group can really help you stay focused and engaged and gain a better understanding of course material.[14]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 14 Version 3.jpg
    • Choose the right peers. If your study group is made up of friends, studying may turn into socializing fast. Pick good students who are genuinely engaged in class.
    • Bounce off one another's strengths. If a classmate is confused on a subject you're skilled at, and does well in an area that confuses you, they would make a good partner. The two of you can help one another out.
  3. Go to your professors with questions. There is nothing to be embarrassed about if you have questions. Everyone gets confused sometimes and needs some extra help. If you have questions on a concept or subject, e-mail your professor or go to office hours. They may be able to offer you tips and tricks to better understand the material.[15]
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 15 Version 3.jpg
  4. Go to review sessions if they are offered. Some teachers have review sessions each week or before an exam. Always make a habit of going if you have time in your schedule. Review sessions can help you gain a better understanding of course materials. They can also be a great place to ask professors or teaching assistants questions.
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 16 Version 3.jpg
  5. Use a tutor. If your campus has tutoring centers, make use of them if you ever need help. You can also look for a private tutor in your area online. A little one-on-one help can go a long way if you're confused about a subject.
    Develop Good Study Habits for College Step 17 Version 3.jpg

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Eat Bitter Melon

Bitter melon is a unique vegetable that grows best in tropical regions and is healthy to eat. Consuming this veggie may strengthen your immune system, detoxify your liver, improve your eyesight, and even kill cancer cells.[1] If you’re wondering how to incorporate bitter melon into your diet while still enjoying the taste of your food, there are many ways to do it. Select and cut your bitter melon properly before cooking and/or eating it. Try stir-frying your bitter melon or blending it into a tasty beverage.

EditSteps

EditSelecting and Cutting Bitter Melon

  1. Look for a long, green warty fruit at the summer farmer’s market. Despite its name, bitter melon doesn’t look like typical melon. Head to the farmer’s market in July and August and keep an eye out for a vegetable that resembles a cucumber, but with much bumpier skin.[2]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 1.jpg
  2. Choose small, firm melon. When choosing from a group of bitter melon, it’s best to go for the smaller, harder ones that are light green, as these won’t be quite as bitter. As bitter melon age and grow, they become more bitter.[3]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 2.jpg
    • If you see any bitter melon with a touch of orange or yellow, get them. These tend to be milder in flavor.
  3. Store bitter melon in your refrigerator for up to 5 days. Once you’ve acquired some bitter melon and have brought them home, put them in an airtight container. Keep them stored in the vegetable drawer in your refrigerator until you’re ready to prepare, cook, and eat them.[4] Don’t wait longer than 5 days or so, or else the bitter melon may start to spoil.[5]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 3.jpg
  4. Wash the melon. Before you cut and cook your melon, turn the kitchen faucet on cold and hold it under the water. Rub it with your hands or scrub it softly with a clean sponge to remove any dirt and/or pesticides.[6]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 4.jpg
  5. Slice the melon in half lengthwise and scoop out the core. Put the bitter melon on a cutting board and carefully slice it in half down the middle. Then take a spoon and scoop out the pith and seeds. Finally, slice the melon into thin half-moon-shaped pieces.[7]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 5.jpg
  6. Sprinkle salt onto the melon. Lightly and uniformly sprinkle salt all over the bitter melon pieces and let the salt sit on them for about 10 minutes. This will minimize the bitter taste of the melon, making it more palatable.[8]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 6.jpg

EditMaking Bitter Melon Stir Fry

  1. Heat some oil in a wok on the stove. Get a wok or large, deep saucepan and pour in 1 tablespoon (14.8 mL) of vegetable or olive oil. Place the wok on a burner and turn the burner on medium-high heat.[9]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 7.jpg
  2. Add chopped garlic and onion to the wok. Use a knife to finely chop one small onion and 3-4 cloves of garlic on a cutting board. Put the chopped garlic and onion into the wok and stir it with a large wooden spoon until it’s cooked and appears brown.[10]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 8.jpg
    • For more flavor, chop and stir in tomatoes once the garlic and onion have browned.
  3. Add the sliced melon and stir fry for 2-3 minutes. Put 2 sliced melons into the wok and continuously stir it while it cooks. After about 2 or 3 minutes, you should notice that the melon is beginning to turn slightly translucent, which means it’s almost cooked.[11]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 9.jpg
  4. Beat and pour 2 eggs into the wok. After the melon has been cooking for 2-3 minutes, whisk 2 eggs and slowly pour them into the wok and over the melon pieces. Continue to stir fry until the eggs are cooked and dry.
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 10.jpg
  5. Remove the wok from heat, and season with salt. Move the wok to a cold burner and turn off the warm burner. Use your wooden spoon to scrape the food out of the wok and into a bowl. Sprinkle in some salt to taste, and serve with rice or noodles.[12]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 11.jpg

EditDrinking Bitter Melon

  1. Make a bitter melon smoothie. Use a knife to chop the bitter melon as finely as possible on a cutting board and put it into a blender or food processor. Add in some pomegranate seeds and/or chopped mango to create a nice flavor. Either blend the chopped melon and fruit into a thin liquid and drink it as a juice, or add in some yogurt to make a smoothie.[13]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 12.jpg
  2. Drink bitter melon tea. Oftentimes, Asian markets carry bitter melon tea in the form of tea bags. The taste is similar to green tea. Drink a cup in the morning and cup at night to get a healthy daily dose.[14]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 13.jpg
  3. Have a cocktail made with bitter melon extraction. If you’re of legal drinking age and are looking for a more creative way to consume bitter melon, try it in a cocktail. Use a box grater to finely grate the skin of one medium melon. Wrap the skin in a cheesecloth and twist it to squeeze out the juice. Put 1 tablespoon (14.8 mL) of juice into a cocktail shaker and add in 1 oz (29.6 mL) of simple syrup, ¾ oz (22.2 mL) of lime juice, ¾ oz (22.2 mL) of gin, and ice. Shake and pour the drink into a glass. Stir in 2 oz (59.1 mL) of soda water and enjoy![15]
    Eat Bitter Melon Step 14.jpg

EditThings You'll Need

EditSelecting and Cutting Bitter Melon

  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Spoon
  • Salt

EditMaking Bitter Melon Stir Fry

  • Wok
  • Vegetable or olive oil (1 tablespoon)
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Garlic (3-4 cloves)
  • Onion (1)
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Tomatoes (optional)
  • Eggs (2)
  • Whisk

EditDrinking Bitter Melon

  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Blender or food processor
  • Mangoes and pomegranates (optional)
  • Yogurt (optional)
  • Bitter melon tea
  • Box grater
  • Cocktail shaker
  • Cheesecloth
  • Simple syrup (1 oz)
  • Lime juice (¾ oz)
  • Gin (¾ oz)
  • Ice
  • Soda water (2 oz)

EditSources and Citations


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