Potted Shrimp

Directions

1. 1
   In a large skillet cook shallots with bay leaf in 1 tablespoon butter over moderate heat, stirring, until soft.
2. 2
   Add shrimp and salt and pepper to taste and cook, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3 minutes.
3. 3
   Add Sherry and boil mixture until almost all liquid is evaporated.
4. 4
   Cool mixture and discard bay leaf.
5. 5
   Transfer shrimp with tongs to a cutting board, reserving shallot mixture, and chop fine.
6. 6
   In a bowl stir together remaining 5 tablespoons butter and cream cheese until smooth.
7. 7
   Stir in shrimp, shallot mixture, lemon juice, chives, and salt and pepper to taste and transfer to a 1 1/2-cup crock.
8. 8
   Chill potted shrimp, covered, at least 4 hours and up to 24.
9. 9
   Serve potted shrimp with crackers or Melba toast.