Savory Stuffed Squid in Rich Tomato Sauce

• Prep time: 30 mins

• Cook time: 20 mins

• Servings: 2-3

1. Ingredients

The Squid:

• 3-4 Large Squid Tubes: Cleaned, skin removed, and patted dry.

• Toothpicks: To secure the ends.

The Filling:

• 200g Ground Pork: (or a mix of pork and minced shrimp).

• 15g Wood Ear Mushrooms: Soaked, cleaned, and finely minced.

• 30g Glass Noodles: Soaked until soft and chopped into short strands.

• 1 Shallot & 2 Garlic Cloves: Finely minced.

• Seasoning: 1 tsp fish sauce, 1/2 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp black pepper.

The Tomato Sauce:

• 3 Large Tomatoes: Finely chopped (or 200ml tomato purée).

• 1 tbsp Tomato Paste: For a deep red color and thickness.

• Aromatics: Minced garlic and shallots.

• Garnish: Fresh cilantro or scallions (as seen in the image).

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2. Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, minced wood ear mushrooms, glass noodles, shallots, and garlic.

2. Add the fish sauce, sugar, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and let it marinate for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Stuff the Squid

1. Using a small spoon, stuff the filling into the squid tubes.

   • Pro-tip: Do not pack too tightly, as the squid will shrink and the filling will expand during cooking.

2. Use a toothpick to "sew" or pin the opening of the squid tube shut.

Step 3: Sear the Squid

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium-high heat.

2. Lightly sear the stuffed squid for 1-2 minutes until the outer skin becomes firm and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce & Simmer

1. In the same pan, sauté the remaining garlic and shallots until fragrant.

2. Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook until the tomatoes break down into a smooth sauce (add a splash of water if it gets too dry).

3. Place the squid back into the pan. Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning the squid occasionally so they cook evenly in the sauce.

4. Once the sauce has thickened and the squid is cooked through, season the sauce with a little extra fish sauce or salt to taste.

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3. Presentation

1. Remove the toothpicks.

2. Slice the squid into rings (as shown in your photo) to reveal the beautiful filling.

3. Pour the remaining thick tomato sauce over the top and garnish with chopped cilantro.