SEAFOOD CHOWDER

Steps:

• Heat the oil in a pan and brown the bacon well until it is crisp and golden.
• Add the onion, cover and sweat for a few minutes over a low heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
• Add the fish stock or water gradually. Add the milk, bouquet garni and potatoes. Season well with salt, pepper, mace and cayenne.
• Cover and simmer until the potatoes are almost cooked, approximately 5-6 minutes. (The chowder may be prepared ahead to this point.)
• Cut the fish into 2.5cm cubes. Add to the pot as soon as the tip of a knife will go through a potato.
• Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, turn up the heat and stir in the cream and add the shellfish. When boiling, remove from the heat.
• Taste, correct the seasoning and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and chives.
• Serve in a warmed bread trencher (crusty bread roll with the top cut off and hollowed out.)