Squid with Black Bean Sauce

Materials:

Main Ingredients:

1 pound (500g) fresh squid, cleaned and cut into rings and tentacles

2 tablespoons fermented black beans, rinsed and mashed

1 tablespoon chopped scallions (white part only)

1 tablespoon thinly sliced garlic

1/4 cup thinly sliced onions

2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger

1/2 cup julienned red bell peppers

12 snow peas, strings removed

Sauce Ingredients:

2 tablespoons chicken broth

2 teaspoons oyster sauce

2 teaspoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon dark soy sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1/2 teaspoon cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry

Cooking Oil:

2 tablespoons peanut or vegetable oil

Equipment:

Large wok or skillet

Colander

Paper towels

Small bowls for mixing sauces

Production Steps:

1. Prepare the Squid:

   Bring a pot of water to a boil.

   Add the squid and blanch for 10 seconds until it turns opaque and curls.

   Drain the squid in a colander and pat dry with paper towels.

2. Prepare the Sauces:

   In a small bowl, combine chicken broth, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and dark soy sauce.

   In another small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, cornstarch, and the remaining chicken broth.

3. Stir-fry the Aromatics:

   Heat cooking oil in a wok or skillet over high heat.

   Add black beans, scallions, and garlic, stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant.

   Add onions and ginger, stir-fry for about a minute.

   Toss in bell peppers, salt, and pepper, cook for 30 seconds.

   Add Shaoxing wine and stir quickly.

4. Cook the Squid and Vegetables:

   Add the squid and snow peas to the wok, stir-fry for about a minute.

   Pour in the soy sauce mixture and continue to stir-fry.

   Add the cornstarch mixture and stir-fry until the sauce thickens.

5. Serve:

   Serve immediately while hot.

Tips:

For a spicier dish, add a pinch of chili flakes to the stir-fry.

You can substitute other vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms for the snow peas.

Make sure to drain the squid thoroughly after blanching to prevent a watery dish.

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.

By following these steps, you can create a delicious and authentic Squid with Black Bean Sauce. Enjoy!