Rouille

Makes about 1 1/2 cups

• One 1 1/2-inch slice of baguette, crusts removed
• 1/4 cup bouillon from the bouillabaisse
• 4 medium cloves garlic, chopped
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 small roasted pepper from a jar, chopped
• 1 cup fruity extra-virgin olive oil
• Medium pinch saffron, pulverized in a mortar, and steeped in 3 tablespoons of hot water
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked Spanish paprika (pimenton) or 1 teaspoon regular paprika
• Small pinch ground cayenne, or to taste
• Salt, to taste

1. Soak the bread in the bouillon for 10 minutes. Squeeze, and crumble with your fingers.

2. In a blender, puree the bread, garlic, egg yolks, and roasted pepper and saffron water until completely smooth, adding a little oil if necessary. With the motor running, drizzle in the oil, a little at a time, until the sauce is emulsified. It should be the consistency of a thick mayonnaise. Add the rest of the ingredients and blend to combine. Scrape the rouille into a bowl and let stand, covered with plastic, for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to develop.

3. Serve with Easy Bouillabaisse Marseillaise.