Jersey Bay Scallops with Rice

Delicious Jersey Bay Scallops with Rice Recipe - A Taste of USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Jersey Bay Scallops with Rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender bay scallops with aromatic rice and a variety of vegetables. This dish is perfect for a special dinner or a weekend meal with family and friends.

History

This recipe is inspired by the fresh seafood and vibrant flavors of the Jersey Shore. Bay scallops are a popular ingredient in coastal cuisine, and when paired with rice and vegetables, they create a hearty and satisfying dish that is sure to please any seafood lover.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) bay scallops
1.5 tsp salt, divided
0.5 tsp ground black pepper, divided
2 tbsp olive oil
2 green peppers, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tomatoes, peeled and chopped
1 2 oz (57 g) jar chopped pimientos
1 cup uncooked rice
1 tbsp paprika
Pinch of saffron
2 cups dry white wine
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

How to prepare

Season the scallops with 0.5 tsp of salt and 0.25 tsp of black pepper.
Cook the scallops in oil in a large skillet over high heat until they turn golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and keep them warm.
In the same skillet, cook the green peppers, onion, and garlic until they become tender crisp.
Add the tomatoes and pimientos to the skillet. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the rice, paprika, saffron, remaining 1 tsp of salt, and remaining 0.25 tsp of black pepper.
Add the wine and bring it to a boil.
Simmer the mixture covered for 15 to 20 minutes or until the rice becomes tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the cooked scallops and sprinkle with parsley.

Variations

Add diced chorizo or bacon for a smoky flavor.
Substitute shrimp or fish for the scallops for a different twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to season the scallops well before cooking to enhance their natural flavor.

- Cooking the scallops over high heat will help them develop a nice golden brown crust.

- When cooking the vegetables, be sure to cook them until they are tender crisp to maintain their texture and flavor.

- Adding saffron to the rice will give it a beautiful golden color and a subtle floral flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Jersey Bay Scallops with Rice with a side of crusty bread and a green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the scallops over high heat will give them a nice caramelized crust.

- Cooking the rice with wine and saffron will infuse it with a rich and aromatic flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of wine for a non-alcoholic version of the dish.

- Substitute bell peppers for the green peppers for a sweeter flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice mixture ahead of time and reheat it before adding the cooked scallops.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Jersey Bay Scallops with Rice with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320 per serving

Carbohydrates

45g per serving

Fats

8g per serving

Proteins

18g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (scallops) and may not be suitable for those with shellfish allergies.

Summary

This dish is a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Jersey Bay Scallops with Rice is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender scallops with flavorful rice and vegetables. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy meal at home. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly as I strolled along the Jersey shore with my dear friend, Sarah. We had spent the morning collecting seashells and enjoying the refreshing ocean breeze when we stumbled upon a small seafood shack nestled by the water's edge.

Intrigued by the delicious aromas wafting from the open windows, we decided to venture inside and sample some of the local fare. As soon as we stepped through the door, we were greeted with the sights and sounds of a bustling kitchen, the clatter of pots and pans mingling with the laughter of the cooks.

I watched in awe as the chef effortlessly prepared a dish of Jersey Bay Scallops with Rice. The scallops were plump and tender, seared to perfection and served over a bed of fluffy white rice. The aroma was intoxicating, a tantalizing blend of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs.

I knew in that moment that I had to learn how to make this dish myself. I approached the chef and asked if he would be willing to share his recipe with me. To my surprise, he agreed, happy to pass on his knowledge to a curious young cook.

Over the next few weeks, I practiced tirelessly in my own kitchen, experimenting with different techniques and ingredients until I had perfected the recipe. I added my own special touch, a dash of white wine and a sprinkle of lemon zest, to make the dish truly my own.

When I finally served the finished dish to my family, they were blown away by the flavors and textures. The scallops were tender and succulent, the rice light and fluffy, each bite bursting with the taste of the sea. It became an instant favorite, requested time and time again for special occasions and family gatherings.

As the years passed, I continued to refine the recipe, adapting it to suit the changing seasons and tastes of my loved ones. I shared it with friends and neighbors, who marveled at its simplicity and elegance. It became a signature dish, a symbol of my passion for cooking and my love of sharing good food with those I care about.

To this day, whenever I make Jersey Bay Scallops with Rice, I am transported back to that sunny day on the Jersey shore, the salty breeze in my hair and the sound of laughter in the air. It reminds me of the joy of discovery, of learning something new and exciting, and of the simple pleasures that can be found in a delicious meal shared with those we hold dear.

So, the next time you find yourself by the sea, take a moment to savor the flavors of the coast. Let the briny sweetness of the scallops and the nutty richness of the rice transport you to a place of peace and contentment. And remember, the best recipes are not just about ingredients and measurements, but about the memories and stories that accompany them.