NOT YOUR MAMA'S GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE

Steps:

• Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots and saute until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the mushrooms, thyme and sage and saute until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 10 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook 5 more minutes. Next add the sherry and stir until thickened. Add the cream and simmer an additional 5 minutes. Set sauce aside. (Recipe can be made to this point up to 2 days before, refrigerated.)
• Melt the remaining butter in a large skillet over high heat. Add the beans, toss to coat with the butter and saute until bright green, about 7 minutes. They'll still be crispy. Season with salt and pepper and place on a platter.
• Bring the sauce to a simmer and spoon over the beans. Top with the frizzled leeks.
• Heat a couple inches of oil to 350 degrees F in a large, heavy pot. To check the oil temperature, drop a bread cube into it. If the cube browns within 30 seconds the oil is hot enough.
• Trim leek, slice in half lengthwise, and wash well under running water. Cut the root end off the leek and then cut each half lengthwise into long, thin strips.
• Season flour with salt and pepper. Dredge leek strips in flour. Fry leeks for 1 to 2 minutes, or until crisp and golden. Drain on paper towels.