Braised Squid with Starfruit - Tender Fish and Tangy Flavor

Steps

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1. 1
   Purchase fresh squid and soak in salt water for 1 hour to clean, then rinse thoroughly with water. Remove the hard head portion and clean off the scales on the body.
   ▶ ≈1:23
2. 2
   Cut the squid in half and prepare for cooking.
   ▶ ≈1:47
3. 3
   Heat oil in a pot, add lightly crushed onions, garlic, and red chili pepper. Stir-fry until the oil becomes fragrant and golden.
   ▶ ≈0:12
4. 4
   Add chili powder and black pepper, continue stir-frying until fragrant.
   ▶ ≈0:32
5. 5
   Add water, stock cube, sugar, and fish sauce. Stir until well combined.
   ▶ ≈0:38
6. 6
   Add thinly sliced starfruit, placing half on the bottom of the braising liquid.
   ▶ ≈1:04
7. 7
   Place the squid in the braising liquid and cover with the remaining starfruit slices on top.
   ▶ ≈1:17
8. 8
   Braise over medium heat for approximately 30 minutes until the braising liquid reduces and becomes glossy and sticky. Avoid using too much starfruit (200g for 0.5 kg squid); if too sour, add 5–10g sugar to balance.
   ▶ ≈1:54
9. 9
   When the sauce has thickened and the dish has a beautiful natural color, transfer to a serving plate.
   ▶ ≈2:00