White Fish With Braised Leeks And Saffron Recipes

FISH BAKED WITH LEEKS

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
• Trim about 1/2 -inch from the root ends of the leeks, then trim off and discard all of the tough green leaves.
• Cut the rest in half lengthwise and chop; then wash well in a colander, being sure to rinse between all of the layers.
• Scatter the leeks over the bottom of an ovenproof casserole.
• Mix with the wine or stock, salt, pepper, and mustard.
• Top with the fish and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
• Cover the casserole and put in oven.
• Bake for 10 - 15 minutes, or until a thin-bladed knife meets little or no resistance when inserted into the thickest part of the fish.
• Uncover and serve with the leeks and pan juices spooned over the fish.

CLAMS AND WHITE FISH IN CARROT-SAFFRON BROTH

Steps:

• To bloom saffron, crush it in a mortar and pestle with a pinch of salt; transfer to a small bowl. Stir in 1 tablespoon hot water; set aside. Rub orange zest over both sides of fish; season with salt and pepper and drizzle with oil. Cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.
• Roughly chop dark-green parts of leek and half of fennel bulb. Place in a small saucepan; cover with 3 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer 10 minutes. Strain; discard solids. Meanwhile, finely chop white and light-green parts of leek and remaining half of fennel bulb.
• Heat 1 tablespoon each oil and butter in a large straight-sided skillet (or large Dutch oven) over medium; add finely chopped leek and fennel and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 8 to 10 minutes. Add tomatoes and wine and cook until wine has evaporated, 1 minute.
• Add carrots, saffron mixture, clam juice, and 1 1/2 cups strained broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, until carrots are crisp-tender, 10 to 12 minutes. Add clams, cover, and cook until all have opened, about 10 minutes more. Remove clams and transfer to a bowl (discarding any unopened ones); cover to keep warm.
• Add fish to skillet, cover, and simmer until cooked through, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer fish to a plate. Stir remaining 2 tablespoons butter into broth; season lightly with salt and pepper. Return clams and fish to skillet; heat through, 30 seconds. Serve with bread and orange wedges.