Seafood Newberg

Mark here... I originally saw this recipe on an episode of Food Network's show Party Line with the Hearty Boys.  After watching the Mad Men episode where Betty Draper orders it, I thought it would be appropriate.  Laurel doesn't eat shellfish (though I think some day I may be able to get her to try scallops) so I tried to find a firmer fish to substitute.  In this case I used Sea Bass and Halibut.  I also made more than enough and was able to give leftovers to friends.

Ingredients:
2 1/2 lbs of fish (Sea Bass and Halibut in this case)
Salt
10 Black Peppercorns
2 Bay Leaves
1 Large Shallot, chopped
4 tablespoons of flour
butter
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon curry powder
pinch of nutmeg
pinch of cayenne
2 cups milk
1/2 cup cream
tomato paste
dry sherry
parsley

asparagus
salt
pepper
olive oil
white rice


First poach the fish in boiling water with about a teaspoon of salt, the bay leaves and the peppercorns, for about 2 minutes.

In a separate pan, heat the milk, cream and add a tablespoon of tomato paste.  Do not let it boil, but bring to a simmer.

In a large sauce pan, sauté the shallot in 4 tablespoons butter for a few minutes, until shallot softens but doesn't brown.  Then add the flour.  Let the flour cook about a minute then add the spices (paprika, curry, nutmeg and cayenne).  Add 1/4 cup of the sherry, and let the alcohol cook off.  Slowly add the milk and cream mixture to this. Finally, cube and add the fish.

Serve over white rice with a side of roasted asparagus (I just tossed with olive oil, salt and pepper and roasted on a sheet pan for about 15 min).  Top with chopped parsley.