MID-ATLANTIC SEAFOOD STEW

Steps:

• Combine tomatoes and red pepper in a blender; purée until smooth. Heat a large straight-sided skillet or braiser pan over medium-high. Add 1 tablespoon oil and 2 tablespoons butter.
• When butter melts and foam subsides, add king-oyster mushrooms in a single layer. Season generously with salt and pepper and cook, flipping once, until golden brown on both cut sides, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
• Heat remaining 1 tablespoon each oil and butter in skillet over medium. Add onion and celery; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and golden in places, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, thyme, and 1 teaspoon Old Bay and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add vermouth; cook until mostly evaporated, about 2 minutes.
• Return king-oyster mushrooms to skillet with tomato mixture, broth, and beech mushrooms. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 5 minutes.
• Meanwhile, season fish and shrimp with remaining 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay, salt, and pepper; nestle into skillet. Simmer, gently stirring a few times, until just cooked through, about 5 minutes. Nestle crabmeat into skillet and cook until warmed through, about 30 seconds. Serve with crostini or biscuits.