Squid "Pasta"

using the squid as the pasta will make for a great (yes, and healthy blah blah blah) alternative.

squid rings

salt pork, diced

1/2 medium onion, sliced

1 star anise

1/2-in. ginger, peeled and minced

1/2-in. lemongrass, bruised and minced

1/2 tbsp. tamarind paste
1-1/2 tsp. ketchup

salt

black pepper

sugar

coconut milk

1 green apple, shaved

1/2 a lime

-Cut one end of each squid ring to form a flat noodle (like fettucini). Set aside.

-Heat a wok or heavy pan to medium high heat (not smoking)

-Add salt pork, cook until rendered and brown.

- Remove salt pork, place on paper towels to catch excess oil.

-Add onion to wok, let cook 2 min (do not stir)

-Add star anise, ginger and lemongrass, stir.

-Move everything to one side of the wok.

-Add squid on empty side with a pinch of salt

-Add black pepper (to taste, preferably a lot!)

-Let cook for one minute, squid will curl up slightly

-Add sugar, tamarind and ketchup. Stir.

-Add coconut milk, while stirring, a lil bit at a time; just enough to bring all the flavors together.

-Add cilantro, Stir.

-Serve with reserved salt pork, shaved apple, and lime juice