Melon tendon

Last updated 2026-11-10 — Melon tendon, also known as melon tendon meatballs, is a local specialty dish from Fugu. In the past, Fugu produced a lot of winter melons, making it a convenient and affordable ingredient. The winter melons are washed, cut into chunks, and their inner flesh is scooped out before being steamed. The cooked melon flesh is then scooped into a container, mixed with an appropriate amount of flour and sugar, and stirred evenly—do not use too much flour, as that will make it tough and unpalatable. Using your left hand, squeeze the mixture into small balls (similar to squeezing meatballs) and deep-fry them in hot oil until cooked. Serve on a plate. Alternatively, you can briefly simmer them in a sweet syrup, which will give them a glossy sheen and a sweet, tender flavor.