Crispy Scallops with Chipotle Tartar Sauce
Crispy Scallops with Chipotle Tartar Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Crispy Scallops with Chipotle Tartar Sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the delicate taste of sea scallops with a spicy and tangy chipotle tartar sauce. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a unique and tasty way to enjoy scallops.
History
Seafood has always been a popular choice for meals, and scallops are no exception. The combination of crispy scallops with a spicy chipotle tartar sauce is a modern twist on a classic dish, adding a bold and exciting flavor profile to this seafood favorite.
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup of tartar sauce
- 2 tbsp of chopped scallions
- 1 tbsp of orange juice
- 1.5 tsp of chipotle hot pepper sauce
- 1 lb (454 g) of sea scallops
- 3 tbsp of yellow cornmeal
- 0.5 tsp of salt
- 0.5 tsp of paprika
- 1 tbsp of oil
How to prepare
- Mix 0.5 cup of tartar sauce, 2 tbsp of chopped scallions, 1 tbsp of orange juice, and 1.5 tsp of chipotle hot pepper sauce in a bowl.
- Let it stand.
- Pat dry 1 lb (454 g) of sea scallops between layers of paper towels.
- Put the scallops, 3 tbsp of yellow cornmeal, 0.5 tsp each of salt and paprika in a plastic bag, shake to coat.
- Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a skillet.
- Add the scallops and cook until golden and just opaque at the centers.
- Serve with the sauce.
Variations
- For a spicier kick, add more chipotle hot pepper sauce to the tartar sauce.
- Substitute the sea scallops with shrimp or fish fillets for a different twist on this dish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to pat the scallops dry before coating them in the cornmeal mixture to ensure a crispy crust.
- Cook the scallops in a hot skillet to achieve a golden brown crust and a tender, juicy center.
- Be careful not to overcook the scallops, as they can become tough and rubbery.
- Serve the scallops immediately after cooking to enjoy them at their best.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crispy scallops with chipotle tartar sauce over a bed of mixed greens or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving crispy scallops is to cook them in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil until they are golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have yellow cornmeal, you can use breadcrumbs or panko crumbs as a coating for the scallops.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the chipotle tartar sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the crispy scallops on a platter with the chipotle tartar sauce drizzled over the top for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a light beer to complement the flavors of the seafood and spicy sauce.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
15g per serving
Fats
12g per serving
Proteins
25g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, and Iron.
Alergens
Contains shellfish and dairy (tartar sauce)
Summary
This dish is a well-balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for seafood lovers.
Summary
Crispy Scallops with Chipotle Tartar Sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. With a crispy coating and a spicy chipotle tartar sauce, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this dish as a main course or as a tasty appetizer at your next dinner party.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria at her beach house. Maria was an excellent cook, and she always had the most delicious recipes up her sleeve.
As we sat on the deck overlooking the ocean, Maria brought out a plate of crispy scallops with chipotle tartar sauce. The smell alone was enough to make my mouth water. I took one bite and was instantly hooked. The crispy exterior of the scallops paired perfectly with the smoky and spicy chipotle tartar sauce. It was a match made in culinary heaven.
I begged Maria for the recipe, and she graciously obliged. She explained that she had learned how to make it from her grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to learn such a special recipe, and Maria walked me through each step with patience and care.
The first step was to prepare the scallops. Maria taught me how to properly clean and devein them, ensuring that they were fresh and ready to be cooked. She then showed me how to dredge them in a mixture of flour, cornmeal, and spices to create a crispy coating that would make them irresistible.
Next came the chipotle tartar sauce. Maria explained that the key to this sauce was the perfect balance of flavors – creamy mayonnaise, tangy pickles, spicy chipotle peppers, and fresh herbs. She showed me how to blend them together until they formed a smooth and flavorful sauce that would complement the scallops beautifully.
As we cooked together in the kitchen, Maria shared stories of her grandmother and the traditions that had been passed down in her family. I listened intently, soaking up every detail and feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented cook.
After we finished cooking, we sat down to enjoy our meal together. The crispy scallops were a hit, with their golden brown exterior and tender, succulent interior. The chipotle tartar sauce added a kick of heat that was perfectly balanced by the cool, creamy texture.
As I savored each bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. I thanked Maria for sharing her family recipe with me and promised to pass it down to future generations.
Since that day, I have made crispy scallops with chipotle tartar sauce countless times, each time bringing back memories of that special summer day with Maria. It has become a favorite among my family and friends, who always request it whenever we have a gathering or special occasion.
I am grateful for the opportunity to learn this recipe and carry on a tradition that has brought so much joy and deliciousness into my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am proud to be able to share this recipe with others, just as Maria did with me.
As I sit here writing this, I can almost taste the crispy scallops and chipotle tartar sauce once again. The memories flood back, filling me with warmth and gratitude for the culinary journey that led me to this cherished recipe. And I know that as long as I continue to cook and share this dish with others, the tradition will live on for generations to come.
Categories
| Cathy's Recipes | Main Dish Seafood Recipes | Scallops Recipes | Seafood Appetizer Recipes |