POT-AU-FEU OF FOIE GRAS

Steps:

• Divide foie gras where it separates into two unequal pieces. Cut a half-inch slice from ends of each piece and discard or reserve for another use. Remove and discard veins or nerves on surface of foie gras. Place foie gras in a bowl. Mix 1 tablespoon sea salt with 3 cups water, pour over foie gras and add enough ice cubes to cover. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate 8 to 12 hours.
• Remove foie gras from ice water and pat dry. Fill a pitcher with enough boiling water to submerge most of the blade of an 8-inch knife. Slice each section of foie gras crosswise into slabs about 3/4-inch thick, dipping knife in hot water before making each slice. Lay slices on a cutting board. Using tip of a paring knife, pluck out any tiny spots of blood from slices. Season slices on both sides with salt and pepper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap until ready to cook.
• Halve potatoes, place in a pot of salted water, and cook until just tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and set aside, covered.
• While potatoes cook, cut celery stalks, carrots and leeks into 3-inch lengths. You should have 12 pieces each. Cut each turnip into 6 wedges. Bring stock to a simmer in a 4-quart casserole. Add vegetables and simmer 10 minutes. Remove any that are tender when pierced with a sharp knife. Continue cooking until all are tender. Set vegetables aside to drain on paper towel.
• Warm 6 large soup plates. Place wine in a small pitcher. Return stock to a fast simmer, add ginger, cook gently for 5 minutes, then slip in slices of foie gras. Remove from heat and allow foie gras to steep 6 minutes. Do not overcook. Place 2 slices of foie gras in each soup plate.
• Return vegetables to stock. Cook 30 seconds, then remove vegetables with a slotted spoon and divide among plates. Discard ginger. Put two pieces of potato in each plate. Strain stock into a saucepan and add truffle juice, if desired, bring to a simmer, then ladle stock over and around foie gras. Sprinkle chives on top, and serve at once, with fleur de sel on the side. Pass wine so guests can add a little to their plates.