How to cook scallops

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How to Clean and Prepare Scallops

It is important you begin with fresh and properly cleaned scallops. Rinse the scallops under cold running water several times to get rid of any sand or grit. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Cut off the tough muscle, where the scallop was attached to the shell. Don’t confuse this with the orange roe (also called the coral).

How to Pan Fry Scallops

  1. Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Once the pan is hot, carefully place the scallops in a single layer, leaving some space between each one.

  2. Sear the scallops for 1-2 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. It's important not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.

  3. Once done, remove the scallops from the pan and serve immediately. Pair them with your favourite sauce or accompaniments for a delightful seafood dish.

Pro Tip: As scallops cook quickly, be mindful not to overcook them. The texture you're looking for is one that is firm to the touch but with a slight bounce.

How to Grill Scallops

  1. Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with oil to prevent the scallops from sticking.

  2. Also brush the scallops with oil and season the scallops with salt and pepper or your favourite seasoning.

  3. Place the scallops on the grill, leaving some space between each one. Cook the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and are cooked through.

  4. Once the scallops are cooked (firm with a slight bounce) remove the scallops from the grill and serve.

Pro tip: To prevent the scallops from falling apart on the grill, use a skewer or grill basket to keep them in place.

How to Poach Scallops

  1. Start by selecting a flavourful liquid such as fish or vegetable broth, white wine, or a combination of aromatic herbs and spices, known as a Court bouillon. You can just use milk if you prefer. Bring the poaching liquid to a gentle simmer in a wide saucepan or skillet.

  2. Enhance the flavour by adding ingredients like sliced onions, garlic, bay leaves, lemon zest, or a pinch of salt and pepper. Allow the liquid to infuse for a few minutes, letting the flavours blend together.

  3. Gently place the scallops into the simmering liquid, ensuring they are fully submerged. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as it may result in uneven cooking. Adjust the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.

  4. Let the scallops poach in the liquid for about 3-4 minutes. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the scallops, so keep a close eye on them. They should turn opaque and feel firm to the touch when cooked through.

  5. Carefully lift the poached scallops from the liquid and transfer them to a serving plate or individual dishes. They can be enjoyed warm or chilled, depending on your preference.

Now that you are feeling a bit more confident cooking Scallops, why not try our delicious Scallops with Chorizo Jam recipe.