Monkfish Court Bouillon

Step 1

Cut the fish into 2-inch pieces. Season with 1 tablespoon of the Essence and set aside. In a large, heavy stockpot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the flour and stir constantly with a heavy wooden spoon until it becomes a dark roux the color of chocolate, about 15 to 20 minutes. Add the celery, onions and bell peppers, and cook, stirring, until the vegetables are wilted, 6 minutes. Add the bay leaves and garlic, and cook for 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes, wine, stock, salt and cayenne, and stir well. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 30 minutes. Add the fish and cook until it flakes with a fork, about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in the green onions and parsley during the last 5 minutes of cooking time. Remove the bay leaves and serve hot in soup bowls ladled over rice.

Step 2

Combine all ingredients thoroughly and store in an airtight jar or container.

Step 3

Recipe from "New New Orleans Cooking", by Emeril Lagasse and Jessie Tirsch. Published by William and Morrow, 1993.