-
1
Bring the port to a boil in a medium-size heavy saucepan over medium-high heat.
-
2
Lower the heat slightly and simmer until reduced to 1 cup (if using a gas stove, never let the flames extend above the bottom edge of the pan).
-
3
Add the vinegar and simmer until almost reduced to a syrup, lowering the heat as necessary and watching carefully to keep it from burning around the edgesyou should have about 7 tablespoons.
-
4
(The sauce can be made to this point up to 1 week ahead; cover and refrigerate.)
-
5
Divide 1 tablespoon of corn oil between the skillets and place over high heat until just smoking.
-
6
Divide the mushrooms, thyme and garlic between them and lower the heat to medium.
-
7
Saute until the mushrooms are browned, about 4 minutes.
-
8
Turn the heat to low and add the shallot, salt, pepper and 2 tablespoons of the butter to the 2 skillets.
-
9
Cook until the shallot is softened and the mushrooms are tender, about 6 minutes more.
-
10
Discard the garlic and thyme and combine the mushrooms.
-
11
(The mushrooms can be made to this point up to 1 day ahead; cover and refrigerate.)
-
12
Season the snapper on both sides with salt and pepper.
-
13
Sprinkle the five-spice powder over the skin and rub it in.
-
14
Clean the skillets and divide the remaining 2 tablespoons of corn oil between them.
-
15
Place both over high heat until just smoking.
-
16
Add the snapper to the skillets, skin side down, and briefly hold the fillets down with a spatula to prevent the skin from shrinking.
-
17
Saute until the bottom is dark and crusted, about 5 minutes.
-
18
Turn and cook until a metal skewer inserted into the fish for 5 seconds is met with medium resistance and feels warm when touched to your lip, about 5 minutes longer.
-
19
Keep warm.
-
20
Meanwhile, reheat the mushrooms.
-
21
Bring the sauce to a boil over high heat.
-
22
Cut the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter into 1/2 inch pieces.
-
23
Lift the saucepan a few inches above the heat and add the butter.
-
24
Shake the pan back and forth until the butter is melted and incorporated into the sauce; this will take about 3 minutes.
-
25
Do not stir or whisk the butter into the sauce.
-
26
When ready, the sauce will be very shiny and clear.
-
27
To serve, stir the chives into the mushrooms and arrange them in the center of 4 large plates.
-
28
Top with the snapper.
-
29
Drizzle the sauce around the mushrooms and serve immediately.