32 Chestnuts

1/2 lb Slab bacon

- cut into 1/2-in cubes 2 sm Red cabbages

- finely shredded 1/2 ts Freshly ground pepper

5 lb Whole salmon

2 c Dry white wine

1/2 c Unsalted butter

2 tb Unsalted butter

4 tb Finely minced shallots

1 c White vinegar

1/4 ts Salt

PREHEAT OVEN TO 350F. Using a small knife, make a slit in each chestnut and spread them on a cookie pan in the oven for 30-to-35 minutes. Remove from oven and when they are cool enough to handle, peel them. Place the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring, about 5 minutes. Add the cabbage, cover and cook another 6-to-7 minutes or until well wilted. Remove from heat, add the chestnuts and transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle the cavity of the salmon with pepper and stuff with the cabbage mixture. Place the salmon in a roasting pan and add 1 cup wine and 2 tablespoons butter. Place in oven, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Turn on its other side and cook another 15-to-20 minutes, or until just barely cooked at the bone. While the salmon is baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine shallots, remaining wine, vinegar and salt. Cook until the mixture is almost dry. Remove from heat and whisk in remaining butter. Arrange the salmon on a large serving platter and offer the sauce on the side. MICHAEL ROBERTS - PRODIGY GUEST CHEFS COOKBOOK