Cod Chowdah - Alton Brown

Ingredients

• 4-5 slices smoked bacon, chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning
• 1 large white onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons good quality unsalted butter
• 7-8 small white potatoes, unpeeled, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
• 1 medium bulb fennel, thinly sliced, fronds reserved
• 2 cups quality fish broth
• 1/4 cup dry vermouth or dry white wine
• 1 1/2 pounds cod filets (previously frozen is fine)
• 4-5 sliced lemon rounds
• 1 1/2 cups half and half
• 1/2 cup leftover mashed potatoes (optional secret texture weapon)