50+ Sweet Winter Melon Recipes You’ll Love

Winter melon, also known as ash gourd or white gourd, is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that shines in both savory and sweet dishes.

It is widely used in Asian cuisines and loved for its mild, slightly sweet flavor that absorbs the essence of other ingredients in a dish.

Whether you’re looking for refreshing salads, hearty soups, or delicious stir-fries, winter melon has a unique ability to adapt to various cooking styles, making it a perfect addition to your kitchen.

In this article, we’ll explore 50+ winter melon recipes that highlight the incredible versatility of this often-underappreciated ingredient.

From light soups that soothe to flavorful stir-fries and even sweet treats, these recipes are designed to inspire and introduce new ways to enjoy winter melon in your everyday meals.

50+ Sweet Winter Melon Recipes You’ll Love

Winter melon’s delicate flavor, combined with its health benefits and ability to take on diverse flavors, makes it a wonderful ingredient to experiment with in the kitchen.

From classic soups and stir-fries to creative salads and desserts, the range of dishes you can make is vast.

These 50+ winter melon recipes offer something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and warm or cool and refreshing.

With these easy-to-follow recipes, you’ll be able to incorporate winter melon into your cooking routine and elevate your meals with its subtle, refreshing taste.

So, the next time you see winter melon at the market, don’t hesitate to pick one up and explore all the delicious possibilities it has to offer!

Winter Melon Soup with Pork Ribs

Winter Melon Soup with Pork Ribs is a nourishing and warming dish perfect for cold weather. This traditional Chinese soup balances the subtle sweetness of winter melon with the richness of pork ribs, creating a light yet flavorful broth. The melon absorbs the savory flavors as it cooks, making the soup a comforting choice for a winter meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork ribs
• 1 small winter melon (peeled and cut into chunks)
• 6 cups water
• 2 slices of ginger
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring water to a boil and add the pork ribs. Blanch for 3–4 minutes to remove impurities, then drain and rinse.
2. In a clean pot, add 6 cups of water and bring to a boil. Add the ginger slices and pork ribs, then lower the heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
3. Add the winter melon chunks to the soup and simmer for another 20 minutes until the melon becomes translucent and tender.
4. Season with soy sauce and salt to taste.
5. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.

This Winter Melon Soup with Pork Ribs is light yet full of flavor, making it a great starter or main dish for cold evenings. The melon’s soft texture paired with the tender pork creates a soothing combination that will leave you feeling warm and satisfied.

Winter Melon Stir-Fry with Garlic and Shrimp

This Winter Melon Stir-Fry with Garlic and Shrimp is a quick and easy dish that highlights the delicate flavor of winter melon. The melon’s natural freshness pairs beautifully with shrimp and garlic, creating a simple yet delicious stir-fry that’s perfect for a light meal or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and sliced thinly)
• 1/2 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
2. Add shrimp to the pan and stir-fry until they turn pink, about 2–3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the sliced winter melon and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the melon softens.
4. Return the shrimp to the pan, add soy sauce, sesame oil, and season with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
5. If the stir-fry appears too watery, mix the cornstarch with a bit of water and add it to the pan to thicken the sauce.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

This stir-fry is a quick, healthy dish that showcases the refreshing qualities of winter melon. The shrimp adds protein and a touch of sweetness, while the garlic brings depth to the flavors. It’s an ideal choice for a weeknight meal, pairing well with rice or noodles.

Sweet Winter Melon Dessert Soup

Sweet Winter Melon Dessert Soup is a delightful and refreshing Chinese dessert, perfect for cooling down after a heavy meal. In this recipe, the winter melon is simmered with rock sugar, creating a light and mildly sweet soup that is both hydrating and soothing.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and cubed)
• 5 cups water
• 1/2 cup rock sugar (or to taste)
• 2 dried red dates (optional)
• 1 tbsp goji berries (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring 5 cups of water to a boil in a pot. Add the cubed winter melon and cook on medium heat for about 20 minutes until the melon becomes tender and translucent.
2. Add the rock sugar and stir until it dissolves completely.
3. Optional: Add the dried red dates and goji berries, and simmer for an additional 10 minutes for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Remove from heat and allow the soup to cool slightly before serving.

This Sweet Winter Melon Dessert Soup is a simple yet satisfying treat that can be enjoyed warm or chilled. Its mild sweetness and delicate texture make it a great palate cleanser, while the goji berries and red dates add a touch of earthiness and nutrition to the dish.

Winter Melon and Mushroom Stir-Fry

Winter Melon and Mushroom Stir-Fry is a vegetarian dish packed with umami and vibrant textures. The soft, juicy winter melon pairs perfectly with the earthiness of mushrooms, creating a balanced meal that’s both light and satisfying. This simple stir-fry is quick to make and delivers a delicious blend of flavors in each bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for added umami)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and golden.
3. Add the winter melon pieces and stir-fry for another 5 minutes until the melon softens but retains a slight crunch.
4. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro, and serve hot.

This Winter Melon and Mushroom Stir-Fry makes a perfect side dish or main course when paired with rice. The combination of the tender winter melon and savory mushrooms creates a healthy, flavorful meal that will delight your taste buds.

Winter Melon Curry

Winter Melon Curry is a unique and flavorful dish that blends the mildness of winter melon with the aromatic spices of curry. This dish takes inspiration from Southeast Asian curries, using coconut milk to create a rich, creamy sauce that complements the subtle taste of the melon. It’s an ideal dish for those who enjoy bold flavors and want to try something different.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and cubed)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 can coconut milk (400ml)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
2. Stir in the curry powder and turmeric, cooking for another minute to release the flavors.
3. Add the cubed winter melon and stir to coat the pieces in the spices.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes until the winter melon is tender and the curry sauce has thickened.
5. Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Winter Melon Curry is a great option for those looking to add a twist to their usual curry dishes. The winter melon soaks up the rich flavors of the curry, resulting in a creamy and fragrant dish that’s perfect for serving with rice or naan.

Winter Melon and Barley Soup

Winter Melon and Barley Soup is a healthy and nutritious dish that’s perfect for detoxing and revitalizing the body. Winter melon has cooling properties, while barley adds a hearty texture and mild nutty flavor to the soup. This combination creates a light yet filling meal, making it ideal for those looking for something nutritious and easy to digest.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and cubed)
• 1/2 cup pearl barley (rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes)
• 6 cups water
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 slices ginger
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked barley and ginger slices, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until the barley is tender.
2. Add the cubed winter melon to the pot and continue simmering for another 20 minutes until the melon becomes translucent and tender.
3. Season the soup with salt and soy sauce to taste.
4. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Winter Melon and Barley Soup is a wonderfully light and wholesome dish that’s perfect for a healthy meal. The barley adds a satisfying chewiness to the soup, while the winter melon provides a refreshing contrast. This soup is known for its cooling and detoxifying properties, making it a great option for cleansing the palate and body.

Braised Winter Melon with Dried Shrimp

Braised Winter Melon with Dried Shrimp is a savory dish that brings together the mild flavor of winter melon and the rich, umami taste of dried shrimp. This dish is slow-cooked to allow the winter melon to fully absorb the shrimp’s flavor, resulting in a soft and deliciously seasoned dish that is comforting and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and cut into chunks)
• 2 tbsp dried shrimp (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
2. Add the soaked dried shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
3. Add the winter melon chunks and stir to coat them with the shrimp and garlic.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Cover the pan and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 15–20 minutes until the winter melon is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with green onions before serving.

Braised Winter Melon with Dried Shrimp is an umami-packed dish that makes a perfect side or light main course. The slow braising process allows the melon to soak in all the savory goodness, resulting in a soft, flavorful bite with each spoonful.

Winter Melon and Pork Meatball Soup

Winter Melon and Pork Meatball Soup is a classic Chinese comfort dish that features tender pork meatballs and soft winter melon in a light, clear broth. This soup is hearty, nutritious, and simple to prepare, making it a popular choice for family dinners. The winter melon’s mild flavor complements the rich meatballs, creating a balanced and delicious meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 6 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the ground pork with the minced garlic, egg, soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
2. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Gently drop the meatballs into the broth and cook for about 5–7 minutes until they are fully cooked and float to the surface.
3. Add the winter melon pieces to the pot and simmer for another 10–15 minutes until the melon is tender.
4. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Winter Melon and Pork Meatball Soup is a hearty, warming dish that is both light and satisfying. The tender pork meatballs add richness to the soup, while the winter melon offers a refreshing contrast. This soup is a comforting choice for chilly days and pairs well with steamed rice.

Winter Melon with Miso Glaze

Winter Melon with Miso Glaze is a fusion dish that combines the mild, refreshing taste of winter melon with the deep, savory flavors of a miso-based glaze. The winter melon is steamed until tender and then coated with a rich miso glaze, creating a dish that’s both light and flavorful, perfect for pairing with rice or as a vegetable side.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and sliced into thick rounds)
• 2 tbsp white miso paste
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp mirin
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp water
• Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Steam the sliced winter melon for about 10–12 minutes until tender but still holding its shape. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix the miso paste, soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sesame oil, and water to create the glaze.
3. In a pan over medium heat, pour the glaze mixture and simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Add the steamed winter melon slices to the pan and gently coat them with the miso glaze.
5. Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.

Winter Melon with Miso Glaze is a flavorful dish that highlights the delicate texture of winter melon with a savory, umami-packed glaze. The miso glaze enhances the natural sweetness of the melon, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. This dish makes an excellent side for rice bowls or grilled meats.

Winter Melon and Chicken Soup

Winter Melon and Chicken Soup is a light yet nourishing dish that combines the mild flavors of winter melon with the richness of chicken. This soup is soothing and perfect for cold days or when you need a comforting meal. The winter melon absorbs the chicken broth’s flavors, making it a satisfying, warm dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and cubed)
• 2 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin removed)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 slices ginger
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the chicken thighs, ginger slices, and garlic.
2. Lower the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked and tender.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot, shred the meat, and discard the bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
4. Add the cubed winter melon and simmer for another 15–20 minutes until the melon becomes tender and translucent.
5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with green onions or cilantro.

This Winter Melon and Chicken Soup is a comforting and light meal perfect for those looking for a healthy, flavorful dish. The soft, tender winter melon pairs beautifully with the savory chicken, creating a bowl of warmth and nourishment.

Winter Melon with Black Bean Sauce

Winter Melon with Black Bean Sauce is a savory, umami-packed dish where the mildness of the winter melon is balanced by the bold flavors of fermented black beans. This stir-fry is a perfect option for a quick, flavorful meal with minimal ingredients. The dish offers a delicious combination of textures and rich flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and cubed)
• 1 tbsp fermented black beans (rinsed and chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and fermented black beans, and stir-fry until fragrant.
2. Add the cubed winter melon to the pan, stirring to coat with the black bean mixture.
3. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and water. Stir to combine and cover the pan.
4. Simmer for about 10–15 minutes until the winter melon is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Winter Melon with Black Bean Sauce is a delicious dish with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The softness of the winter melon contrasts with the rich, umami-filled black bean sauce, making it a great accompaniment to rice or noodles.

Winter Melon Salad with Sesame Dressing

Winter Melon Salad with Sesame Dressing is a refreshing and light dish that showcases the crispness of raw winter melon paired with a nutty, creamy sesame dressing. This salad is perfect for a light meal or as a side dish, offering a unique way to enjoy winter melon’s cool and hydrating properties.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 1 cucumber (sliced thinly)
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp ginger (grated)
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and grated ginger to make the sesame dressing.
2. In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced winter melon and cucumber.
3. Drizzle the sesame dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.

This Winter Melon Salad with Sesame Dressing is a refreshing and crunchy dish that offers a light yet flavorful experience. The sesame dressing adds a nutty richness to the salad, while the winter melon and cucumber provide a crisp, hydrating bite, making it an excellent appetizer or side dish.

Winter Melon Stir-Fry with Garlic and Chili

Winter Melon Stir-Fry with Garlic and Chili is a simple, quick, and flavorful dish that brings out the natural sweetness of winter melon while infusing it with the savory heat of garlic and chili. This recipe makes for an easy side or light meal, and the ingredients are few, but the flavor is bold and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 red chili (sliced thinly)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chili, stir-frying until fragrant.
2. Add the sliced winter melon and stir to coat with the garlic and chili.
3. Pour in the soy sauce, sugar, and water, and stir well. Cover and cook for about 8–10 minutes until the melon becomes tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Winter Melon Stir-Fry with Garlic and Chili is an ideal dish for those looking for something fast yet flavorful. The mild, tender winter melon is elevated by the heat of chili and the aromatic garlic, creating a perfect balance of flavors that complements rice or noodles.

Winter Melon and Shrimp Stir-Fry

Winter Melon and Shrimp Stir-Fry combines the mild, soft texture of winter melon with the sweet, briny taste of shrimp, resulting in a dish that’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. This stir-fry is quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and cut into cubes)
• 1/2 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional for thickening)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a pan or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp and stir-fry until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
3. In the same pan, add the winter melon cubes and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes.
4. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch (if using) to the pan and stir well. Cook until the winter melon becomes tender, about 5–7 minutes.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.

Winter Melon and Shrimp Stir-Fry offers a beautiful harmony of delicate flavors, where the sweet shrimp complements the mild winter melon. The result is a balanced, healthy dish that is both light and filling, perfect for any meal.

Winter Melon Sweet Soup (Tong Sui)

Winter Melon Sweet Soup, also known as Tong Sui, is a popular Chinese dessert soup made from winter melon, rock sugar, and sometimes dried longan or dates. This sweet soup is cooling, refreshing, and light, making it a great way to end a meal or to enjoy as a snack on hot days.

Ingredients:

• 1 small winter melon (peeled and cut into cubes)
• 6 cups water
• 100g rock sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup dried longan (optional)
• 5–6 dried red dates (optional)
• 1 tbsp goji berries (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the winter melon cubes and dried longan or red dates (if using).
2. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 20–25 minutes until the winter melon becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add the rock sugar and stir until it dissolves completely.
4. Once the sugar is fully incorporated and the soup has thickened slightly, remove from heat.
5. Garnish with goji berries and serve warm or chilled.

Winter Melon Sweet Soup is a soothing dessert that highlights the subtle sweetness of winter melon, enhanced by the rock sugar. The soup can be enjoyed hot or cold and is often seen as a cooling treat in warmer weather. Its light and refreshing qualities make it a perfect way to end a meal.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!