Monk fish in black bean sauce followed by a fruit blizzard

 Monk fish can take strong flavours well, this recipe called for scallops so the monk was cut to resemble scallop meats.......

 the black bean sauce was made from salted black beans (they keep forever), garlic and grated ginger.......

 very hot spicy prawn starter........

 meanwhile, back at the stove, a quick stir fry of the monk.......

 before cooking off the black bean sauce..........

 to which the monk is added for a few minutes to coat........

always good to follow a fish dish with something citrus, homemade blackcurrant ice cream with an icy fruit blizzard, frozen mango, pineapple, watermelon.

Let me entertain you - Chinese banquet Steve Chan style.

 Three birthdays to celebrate in one week so time for a treat - and who better to turn to than Steve Chan........

 first up, prepping some of the key ingredients, squid for starters.........

 while the oil gets hot hot hot.........

 don't forget the spare ribs........

 to go with the rest of the starters on the table..........

 no prizes for guessing what's next.........

 and, without anyone lifting a finger, the crispy duck meets the shredder.........

 bring on the pancakes.........

 and, while the next course is underway...........

and the duck looks like a pirannha attack aftermath.........

 there's beef in a pepper sauce coming up........

 before the bass gets busy.......... 

and things step up a gear.......

 bass with silky Singapore noodles...........

 and fruity sweet and sour twist to close the show - easy to organise for a shop-free day and hassle-free evening - highly recommended!