Chef Bihi Scallops with Vegetables
Are you preparing for a festive celebration and looking to impress your guests? This delicious dish combines succulent scallops with fresh, vibrant vegetables, making it the perfect starter for your holiday feast. Get ready to elevate your culinary game and make this delightful recipe!
Recipe Information
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 20 scallops, without roe
- 1 bunch of spring onions
- 8 young carrots, with the tops
- 2 shallots
- 500 ml culinary cream
- ½ teaspoon tomato paste
- 1 fish broth cube
- 1 knob of butter
- Fleur de sel (or any fine sea salt)
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Peel the carrots while keeping the tops intact.
- Wash the spring onions thoroughly.
- Peel and cut the shallots in half lengthwise.
- Place the scallops on paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
- In a skillet, add the carrots, spring onions, a knob of butter, the broth cube, and enough water to cover the ingredients.
- Cook over low heat until the water has evaporated.
- Add the cream and tomato paste, stirring gently to combine.
- In a separate hot skillet, add a little butter and sear the scallops for 1 minute on each side.
- Divide the sauce and vegetables into small cocottes and place the scallops on top before serving.
Notes
This dish can be prepared in advance by cooking the vegetables and the sauce. Just sear the scallops right before serving to ensure they are fresh and warm.
Recipe Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, before serving. Additionally, make sure your pan is very hot when cooking the scallops to achieve a perfect sear.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is rich in proteins and healthy fats, making it both a delicious and nutritious choice for a festive starter.
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, frozen scallops work well; just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
2. What can I serve with scallops?
Scallops pair nicely with a light salad, garlic bread, or a refreshing citrus sauce.
3. How do I know when scallops are cooked?
Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch, typically taking about 2-3 minutes per side when searing.
4. Can I prepare the vegetables ahead of time?
Absolutely! The vegetables can be prepped and cooked earlier in the day; just reheat before serving.
5. Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free; ensure the broth cube used is gluten-free as well.
