10 Minute Pan Seared Thai Chili Scallop Food

THAI SCALLOPS

Steps:

• Finely chop the chili.
• Peel and finely slice the garlic
• Cut the ginger into thin matchsticks
• Zest the lime and then squeeze the juice out.
• Set these all aside until needed (see note 4)
• Use paper towels to pat the scallops dry. You want to ensure the scallops have no moisture on the surface.
• Place a heavy-based frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 tbsp of oil and let it heat until shimmering (at least 1 minute)
• Season the scallops lightly with salt. Then carefully and quickly add the scallops to the frying pan.
• Do them individually, starting at 12 o'clock and working around the outside of the pan.
• Cook the scallops for 90 seconds on one side.
• Turn the heat off under the pan and add 1 tbsp of butter.
• Use tongs to gently turn each scallop over into the sizzling butter, again starting at 12 o'clock and working around in the same order you added the scallops.
• Leave the scallops for 60 seconds, then remove the scallops from the pan and place them on a plate.
• Put the prepared garlic, chili, and ginger into the frying pan and stir to cook in the hot oil and butter.
• Pour in 2 tbsp fish sauce, the squeezed lime juice, and sprinkling over 1/2 tsp of brown sugar.
• Once everything is bubbling (about 1 minute), pour over the scallops, and serve with fresh cilantro and a little lime zest.

PAN-SEARED SCALLOPS WITH A SPECIAL THAI SAUCE

Steps:

• Rinse scallops and pat dry. The scallops must be very dry before frying in order to achieve a good sear.
• Warm a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat (allow the pan to warm up at least 1 minute). Add 2 tablespoons oil to the wok or frying pan and swirl around.
• Gently place the scallops in the pan, leaving enough space between so you'll have room to turn. Allow scallops to sear undisturbed for at least 2 minutes (trying to turn them too early will cause the skin to tear). While cooking, season them with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
• Use a turner to gently turn the scallops. Season once more with salt and pepper. Scallops are done when both sides have a nice crispy-looking crust and are firm to the touch. Remove scallops from the wok/pan and place on a paper towel or clean tea towel to drain.
• Place all sauce ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat-high. Stirring occasionally, warm the sauce for 1 to 2 minutes only - just long enough to bring out the flavor of the garlic and turn the fresh chile (or bell pepper) bright red. Avoid cooking the sauce.
• Remove from heat and taste-test, adding a little more fish sauce if not salty enough (1 teaspoon), or a little more lime juice if too salty. Add a little sugar if too sour.
• Place scallops on a bed of lettuce with the fresh cilantro and basil. Pour or spoon the sauce over the scallops. Serve as is, with rice, or with a little French bread to soak up the juices. Enjoy!

SCALLOPS WITH THAI SAUCE

Steps:

• In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, broth, peanut butter and chili sauce until smooth; set aside. , In a large skillet, saute scallops in 1 tablespoon oil for 2-3 minutes on each side or until firm and opaque. Remove with a slotted spoon and keep warm. , In the same pan, saute the onion, red pepper and cashews in remaining oil for 3-5 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer., Stir cornstarch mixture and add to the pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Add scallops and corn; heat through. Serve with pasta if desired.