Poached Cod With Lemon-Butter Sauce

Step 1

Cut cod fillets into four serving size pieces and place in large pan in one layer.

Step 2

Add the milk and the water to the pan so that the fish is barely covered--if necessary add more water.

Step 3

Add the bay leaf, the parsley sprigs, peppercorns and cloves.

Step 4

Bring to a simmer and cover and cook gently for three to four minutes until fish just flakes--cooking time will depend upon the thickness of the fish--do not overcook.

Step 5

While the fish is poaching, start the sauce by melting one tablespoon of the butter in a saucepan and briefly cooking the garlic and the shallots in the butter.

Step 6

Remove 1/4 cup of the poaching liquid and add it to the sauce, stirring all the while.

Step 7

Bring the sauce to a boil, add the lemon juice and swirl in the remaining butter, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 8

Remove from the heat and add the minced parsley.

Step 9

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning.

Step 10

Drain the fish and serve it hot with the lemon-butter sauce poured over it.