Place halibut in a shallow, buttered baking dish. Brush on half the softened butter over the tops. Season with salt and pepper. Bake 20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily.
Heat the remaining butter in a saucepan until lightly browned. Add in the brandy and orange rind. Stir well. Add in the cream, along with any liquid that is in the bottom of the baked halibut. Bring to a boil and reduce if it is too thin.
Add the parsley, and pour over the fish.
Recipe Notes
Adapted from The New York Times Heritage Cookbook, 1972.