Instructions: With a slotted spoon, remove the oysters from their liquor. Strain the liquor through a sieve lined with cheesecloth.

In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of the butter over moderate heat. Add the fennel and cook, stirring occasionally, until the fennel is tender, about 5 minutes.

Add the milk, cream and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.

Reduce the heat to low, add the oysters, the reserved oyster liquor and the Worcestershire sauce and bring just to a simmer, stirring constantly. Simmer just until the oysters plump and begin to curl, about 1 minute. Do not boil or the cream will curdle.

Taste and add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt if needed. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Serve sprinkled with the paprika and chopped fennel tops.

This recipe yields 6 servings.

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