POACHED SALMON

Prep Time: 30 Minutes
Yields: 6 (6-ounce) Servings

Comment:
Of all the fish used for poaching, none is more flavorful than salmon. Here, the humble potato is elevated to create a magnificent sauce to enhance the delicious dish.

Ingredients for Courtbouillon:
4 ounces dry white wine
1 gallon water
2 cups peeled, diced carrots
½ cup diced white of leek
2 cups diced onions
1 cup diced celery
4 cloves garlic, chopped
5 sprigs parsley
1 sprig thyme
1 bay leaf
10 white peppercorns, crushed
3 coriander seeds
salt to taste
1 tbsp fish base (optional)

Method for Courtbouillon:
In a large saucepan, bring white wine and water to a boil. Add all remaining ingredients except salt, and simmer 10 minutes. Season with salt and strain through a fine sieve.

Ingredients for Poached Salmon:
6 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
courtbouillon liquid
chive potato sauce (see recipe)

Method for Poached Salmon:
Bring liquid to a rolling boil. Place salmon in a 9" x 13" baking pan. When ready to serve, pour boiling liquid over fish. Cover quickly with plastic wrap and allow to set 10-15 minutes or until done. Place 1 poached fillet in center of plate and top with warm Chive Potato Sauce.

Ingredients for Chive Potato Sauce:
2 tbsps sliced chives
1 large white potato, cut in ½-inch cubes
5 ounces hot chicken stock (see recipe)
salt and black pepper to taste

Method for Chive Potato Sauce:
Boil potato in lightly-salted water until tender. Strain and place in food processor with half of stock. Purée completely then add remaining stock. Blend until smooth, but do not overmix. Fold in chives, salt and pepper. NOTE: This sauce must be made immediately before serving. If it sits, it will solidify.