She used to make beer duck most often, but now, without any beer, she had to use plain water.
This duck didn't have a foul, gamey smell, so it didn't even need to be blanched. She stir-fried it with ginger, chili peppers, and garlic until it was fragrant, then poured in some soy sauce. Once it cooked to a rich, reddish-brown, she added plain water and brought it to a boil, creating a wonderfully savory broth.
She took a taste, added some mushrooms, then covered the pot and let it simmer over a low flame until tender.
The aroma drew Laishou over. He ran to Juhua's side, tugged on the hem of her clothes, and looked up. "Sister, is it ready yet? Laishou wants to eat."
Seeing his eager expression, Juhua couldn't help but let out a laugh. She took Laishou's hand and said to Mrs. Yang, who was tending the fire, "Mother, it just needs to simmer a little while longer." Then she looked down at Laishou. "We'll be eating soon. Be a good boy, Laishou, and just wait a tiny bit longer."
