Finely chop the vegetarian ham and soaked wood ear mushrooms, then crumble in the tofu. Add 1 teaspoon vegetarian seasoning powder and mix well. Stuff this mixture into the bitter melons. Cut the carrot and shiitake mushrooms into pieces and add them to a pot of water to make a flavorful broth.

When the water comes to a gentle boil, add the stuffed bitter melons. Skim off any foam, then season with vegetarian seasoning powder, soy sauce, and sugar. Simmer until the bitter melons are tender, then turn off the heat.

Top with cilantro and black pepper before serving.