Curried Shellfish Pot Pie

PREHEAT OVEN TO 425F. Invert a 3-quart oval or rectangular casserole, preferably earthenware or porcelain, onto a piece of parchment or waxed paper. Trace the shape, adding a 1-inch border all around, then cut it out. In a large heavy skillet, heat the butter over medium high heat until it foams. Whisk in the flour, adjust the heat to medium low, and continue cooking until the flour is light-cream colored, about 2 minutes. Stir in the clam broth, sherry, cream and lemon juice. Adjust the heat to medium high, and slowly bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook 30 seconds longer. It will be quite thick. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the ginger, garlic, curry powder, red pepper, salt and black pepper. Let the mixture cook slightly, then fold in the parsley, lobster, shrimp, carrots, mushrooms, almonds, peas and onions. Scrape the filling into the casserole. On a slightly floured work space, roll the puff pastry to a thickness of 1/4 inch. Cut it out, using the paper template. In the center of the pastry, cut out an air hole about 1/2 inch in diameter. Place the pastry over the casserole, pressing it down on the sides to seal. Cut the remaining pastry into strips or shapes and decorate the top of the pot pie. (This dish may be prepared ahead to this point, covered and refrigerated up to 1 day.) Brush the top with the egg wash. To help prevent the liquid from boiling over onto the crust, make a steam vent by rolling a 3-inch strip of heavy aluminum foil width-wise around a wooden spoon handle. Insert it gently into the hole. Remove spoon, leaving foil in place. Place the casserole on a cookie sheet and transfer it to the middle of the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then reduce heat to 375F and continue baking for 20-to-25 minutes longer, or until the pastry is puffed and rich golden brown. Remove the pan, let it rest with the vent inside for 15-to-20 minutes to keep the crust from becoming soggy.