Oysters Rockefeller

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
2. 2
   Open the oysters, leaving them on the half shell, and reserve the oyster liquor.
3. 3
   Arrange them in a baking pan; then, chill until ready to use.
4. 4
   Pick over the spinach and remove any tough stems and blemished leaves.
5. 5
   Rinse well and place in a saucepan.
6. 6
   Cover and cook, stirring, until wilted.
7. 7
   Drain well, and squeeze to remove all moisture.
8. 8
   In the container of a food processor, combine the drained spinach, celery, scallions, parsley, garlic and anchovies.
9. 9
   Blend to a fine texture.
10. 10
    In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons butter.
11. 11
    Add spinach mixture.
12. 12
    Cook and stir for about 1 minute.
13. 13
    Set aside.
14. 14
    Heat the remaining butter in a saucepan.
15. 15
    Add the flour, blend, and stir with a wire whisk.
16. 16
    Add the oyster liquor, stirring vigorously with the whisk.
17. 17
    Stir in the cream, season with Tabasco, and cook for about 2 minutes.
18. 18
    Add the spinach mixture, cheese and liqueur.
19. 19
    Blend well and let cool.
20. 20
    Add salt and pepper to taste.
21. 21
    Spoon equal parts of the spinach mixture on top of the oysters and smooth over the tops.
22. 22
    Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until piping hot.