SERVES 4

It's said that Ireland's most famous saint, St. Patrick, was partial to lobster. This appetizer would surely have pleased him.

1⁄2 cup finely chopped carrots
1⁄2 cup finely chopped celery
1⁄2 cup finely chopped onions
2 cups dry white wine
2  1 1⁄2 -lb. lobsters
2 tbsp. brandy
1⁄2 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp. unsalted butter

1. Place carrots, celery, onions, and wine in a large skillet and bring to a boil.

2. Add lobsters, cover, and cook for 5–8 minutes. Remove lobsters from skillet and cool.

3. Remove lobster meat, keeping claw meat intact and reserving shells. Slice each tail into 4 medallions and set aside to cool.

4. Simmer wine and vegetables until wine is reduced by half. Add shells and brandy, and cook for 5 minutes. Strain and combine stock with cream in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened.

5. Reduce heat and whisk in butter. Add lobster and heat.