She Crab Soup

In a large pan, melt butter over med heat. Add garlic, onion, & bay leaf.

Cook & cook for 4-5 mins until onion is translucent.

Pour in ¼ cup of dry sherry. Boil until the liquid is mostly evaporated, reduced to just 1 tablespoon.

Sprinkle in the flour.

Stir until combined.

Pour in the fish stock & whisk until no lumps remain.

Gradually, sprinkle in the Old Bay, paprika, ¼ cup dry sherry, Worcestershire, cayenne, & lemon juice.

Pour in the warmed half and half.

Remove bay leaf. Transfer the liquid to blender. A couple batches may be needed. Allow the liquid to cool slightly before blending, then blend until smooth.

Pour liquid back into the saucepan.

Add ½ pound lump crabmeat. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer soup 10 to 15 minutes, until liquid is thick and heated through. Stir constantly to prevent burning.

Pour 1 tbsp (¼ cup total) sherry into each serving bowl.

 Top sherry with remaining crabmeat, 2 oz per bowl.

Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped chives and 1 tablespoon roe per bowl. Serve hot with crusty French bread.