Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with Jodie's Honey Sesame Scallops, a dish that effortlessly combines the sweet and savory elements of Asian cuisine! In just 15 minutes, you can transform simple scallops into a gourmet masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. With a perfect golden sear and a luscious honey glaze, this recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound scallops
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the scallops dry completely with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a perfect golden sear and preventing excess moisture.
- Season the scallops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. The seasoning will enhance the natural sweetness of the scallops.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil until well combined. This will create a glossy, flavorful glaze for the scallops.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of neutral cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Once the pan is hot, carefully place the scallops in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching each other. This allows for even cooking and proper caramelization.
- Cook the scallops for approximately 2-3 minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms. Avoid moving them during this time to develop a nice sear.
- Gently flip the scallops and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side until they are just opaque in the center.
- Drizzle the prepared honey sesame glaze over the scallops during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the scallops immediately after removing from heat for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Transfer the scallops to a serving plate and garnish with additional sesame seeds and optional chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
- Serve immediately while hot, paired with steamed rice or a light salad to complement the rich, sweet, and savory flavors.
Tips
- Dry Scallops Thoroughly: Ensure your scallops are patted dry before cooking. This step is essential for achieving that coveted golden sear and preventing excess moisture from steaming them.
- Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning! A good sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops and elevates the overall flavor.
- Perfect Glaze: Whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil until well combined. This flavorful glaze not only adds depth but also caramelizes beautifully when drizzled over the scallops at the end of cooking.
- Avoid Crowding the Pan: When cooking, make sure to place the scallops in a single layer without touching. This ensures even cooking and allows for proper caramelization, giving you that perfect crust.
- Timing is Key: Cook the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on the first side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. They should be just opaque in the center for the best texture.
- Add Texture with Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the scallops right after cooking for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your scallops hot, paired with steamed rice or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 45mg
