I hated Ampalaya (bitter gourd) -- this was before I got married. It turns out this is my husband's favorite and so I had to learn how to cook it, and eat it. It took awhile for me to like ampalaya, I can't take the bitter taste. Until I found the right way to prep it before cooking so it won't be too bitter. After slicing the gourd, I get a handful and squeeze them with two hands until a green juice comes out. I would squeeze them all until I can no longer see the green juice coming out. And once it's cooked, it's actually really good!