Barbecued Piggy Scallops

Barbecued Piggy Scallops Recipe from Scotland with Bacon, Scallops, and Butter

Region / culture: Scotland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Barbecued Piggy Scallops is a delightful dish that combines the succulent taste of scallops with the rich, smoky flavor of bacon. This recipe is perfect for outdoor grilling and is sure to be a hit at any barbecue or family gathering. The combination of fresh scallops wrapped in bacon, seasoned with pepper and parsley, and then grilled to perfection, creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

History

The concept of wrapping seafood in bacon dates back several centuries and spans multiple cultures. The idea is to combine the flavors of the sea with the smoky, savory taste of cured meats. This particular recipe, Barbecued Piggy Scallops, has evolved over time, incorporating modern cooking techniques and ingredients to enhance the flavors and appeal of the dish. It's a modern twist on traditional surf and turf, bringing together the best of both worlds in a simple yet sophisticated way.

Ingredients

12 slices of bacon, rind removed
24 large scallops, shelled
black pepper, to taste
1 tsp freshly chopped parsley
2 lemons, juice only
2 oz (57 g) of unsalted butter, melted

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, pepper, and parsley. Mix well.
Add the scallops to the bowl and turn them to coat them evenly with the mixture.
Cut each bacon rasher in half widthwise. Take each scallop and wrap it with half a rasher of bacon, securing them with skewers. Set aside any remaining butter mixture.
Place the skewers on a grill over hot coals. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, basting with the remaining butter mixture, until the bacon becomes crisp and golden brown.
Transfer the cooked skewers to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining butter mixture over the top.
Serve immediately.

Variations

For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the butter mixture. You can also substitute the parsley with other fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when making Barbecued Piggy Scallops, consider the following tips:

- Choose large, fresh scallops for a tender, juicy bite.

- Remove the rind from the bacon to ensure it crisps up nicely without becoming too chewy.

- Secure the bacon-wrapped scallops with skewers to keep them intact during grilling.

- Baste the scallops with the butter mixture while grilling to add flavor and prevent them from drying out.

- Preheat the grill to achieve a good sear on the bacon and scallops, locking in their juices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Barbecued Piggy Scallops with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. A light, citrusy dressing or vinaigrette can complement the flavors of the scallops and bacon nicely.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the preferred cooking technique for this recipe, as it imparts a smoky flavor to the scallops and bacon. Ensure the grill is hot before adding the skewers to achieve a nice sear and prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version, substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or prosciutto. You can also use olive oil instead of butter for basting to reduce the saturated fat content.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the scallops and wrap them in bacon ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill. The butter mixture can also be prepared in advance and refrigerated.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the grilled scallops on a platter and garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve with skewers for easy handling.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Barbecued Piggy Scallops with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Rosé to complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the scallops from becoming rubbery.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Barbecued Piggy Scallops contains approximately 200-250 calories, making it a moderate-calorie option suitable for those managing their calorie intake. The exact calorie count can vary based on the size of the scallops and the amount of bacon and butter used.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source coming from the scallops themselves. Scallops contain a small amount of glycogen, a form of carbohydrate. However, the overall carbohydrate content per serving is minimal, making this dish suitable for low-carb diets.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come primarily from the bacon and the unsalted butter used in the butter mixture. While bacon adds a rich flavor, it also contributes saturated fats. The unsalted butter, on the other hand, provides a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. To reduce the fat content, you can opt for leaner cuts of bacon or use less butter.

Proteins

Scallops are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The bacon also adds additional protein to the dish, making it a protein-rich option for a meal. This combination ensures that each serving of Barbecued Piggy Scallops is packed with proteins, essential for a balanced diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Scallops are rich in vitamins and minerals, including B12, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining healthy nerve function, bone health, and energy levels. The parsley used in the recipe also adds a small amount of Vitamin C and iron.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are shellfish (scallops) and dairy (butter). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or find suitable substitutions.

Summary

Barbecued Piggy Scallops is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a suitable option for various dietary preferences. However, it does contain potential allergens such as shellfish and dairy.

Summary

Barbecued Piggy Scallops is a delicious, protein-rich dish that combines the flavors of the sea with smoky bacon. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. With its simple preparation and sophisticated flavors, it's sure to become a favorite for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly as I rummaged through an old box of recipes that belonged to my great-grandmother. She was known for her delicious and unique dishes, and I always loved trying to recreate them in my own kitchen.

As I sifted through the yellowed pages and faded ink, a worn piece of paper caught my eye. It was a handwritten recipe for Barbecued Piggy Scallops, a dish I had never heard of before. Intrigued, I read through the ingredients and instructions, feeling a sense of excitement building within me. This was a recipe unlike any I had ever seen, and I knew I had to try it.

The following weekend, I gathered the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. The recipe called for fresh scallops, marinated in a tangy barbecue sauce and grilled to perfection. It also included a secret blend of spices that promised to elevate the dish to a whole new level of flavor.

As the scallops sizzled on the grill, the sweet and smoky aroma filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product and see if it lived up to the image in my mind.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. I plated the Barbecued Piggy Scallops and took a bite, closing my eyes as the flavors danced on my tongue. It was a symphony of sweet and savory, with a hint of spice that lingered on my palate. I knew then that I had stumbled upon something truly special.

From that day on, Barbecued Piggy Scallops became a staple in my recipe repertoire. I shared the dish with friends and family, each time receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. It quickly became a beloved tradition at our family gatherings, a dish that brought us all together around the grill, savoring each bite and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, personalizing it to suit my own tastes and preferences. I experimented with different barbecue sauces, added a touch of honey for sweetness, and even tried grilling the scallops on cedar planks for a smoky finish. Each variation brought its own unique twist to the dish, but the core essence of Barbecued Piggy Scallops remained the same.

As I look back on that fateful day when I discovered the recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary journey it has taken me on. It has allowed me to connect with my heritage, honor the traditions of my ancestors, and share my love of cooking with those closest to me.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a show-stopping dish that is sure to impress, look no further than Barbecued Piggy Scallops. It may have a quirky name, but I can guarantee you that its taste will leave you speechless and longing for more. And who knows, perhaps one day you too will pass down this cherished recipe to future generations, keeping the spirit of good food and family alive for years to come.