If using dried morels: Soak in some white wine until soft, about 15 minutes. Heat the oil in a large non-stick pan over a medium heat. Season the halibut steaks with salt and freshly ground black pepper and add to the pan skin-side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until golden-brown and the fish is nearly cooked through, then turn the halibut steaks over and add 3 ounces butter.
Reduce the heat and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the fish is just cooked through. Set aside on a warm platter.
Place the fresh (or soaked) morels and 7 ounces wine into a pan with the chicken stock and bring to the boil. Cook to reduce the liquid by half. Add peas and asparagus. Add the heavy cream and bring just under the boiling point. Add the rest of the butter and stir to combine.
To serve, place a halibut steak onto each plate and spoon the pan juices and the morel cream sauce over the top.
Note: Serve with a salad of chicory and shaved Grana Padano with a light olive oil and lemon juice dressing.
Chef's Notes:
Note: Growing up in San Francisco, using seasonal, local ingredients has always been the norm for me, so when certain food items are available fresh, they're going on the table! Morel mushrooms, asparagus and English peas are three ingredients that scream springtime. So here's one of my favorite hearty fish dishes--easy and so tasty!