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Sous vide scallops are a delicious and elegant dish that you can easily make at home. By cooking them in a water bath at a precise temperature, you ensure that they turn out perfectly tender and flavorful. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, these scallops are a fantastic choice.
Why Make This Recipe
Cooking scallops sous vide offers several benefits:
- Perfect Texture: The low and slow cooking method ensures scallops are tender and not overcooked.
- Flavor Infusion: By sealing in the butter and seasonings, you allow the scallops to absorb those delicious flavors.
- Easy Preparation: The sous vide process lets you set it and forget it, making it simple even for beginners.
How to Make Sous Vide Scallops
Ingredients:
- 12 large sea scallops (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- Pinch of sea salt
- Fresh cracked pepper
- Optional: cowboy butter for serving
Directions:
- Preheat sous vide water bath to 123°F (51°C).
- Pat scallops dry and place in a vacuum-seal or zip-top bag with butter, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Seal the bag and place it in the water bath for 30 minutes (or 45 minutes if using frozen scallops).
- Once the time is up, carefully remove the scallops and pat them dry thoroughly.
- Heat a skillet over high heat and add oil or butter.
- Sear the scallops for 30 seconds per side until they are golden brown.
- Plate the scallops and serve with additional butter or garnish as desired.
How to Serve Sous Vide Scallops
Sous vide scallops are best enjoyed hot from the skillet. You can serve them on their own or with a side of vegetables or salad. For a touch of luxury, drizzle some cowboy butter over the top. This melty mixture pairs beautifully with the delicate flavor of the scallops.
How to Store Sous Vide Scallops
If you have leftover scallops, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet or add them back to the sous vide water bath at a low temperature.
Tips to Make Sous Vide Scallops
- Choose Quality Scallops: Fresh or high-quality frozen scallops make a big difference in taste.
- Pat Dry Thoroughly: This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear; excess moisture will create steam instead of a beautiful crust.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices, such as garlic or thyme.
Variations
You can easily switch up the flavors with different ingredients. For example, try adding some garlic to the butter or incorporating fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added freshness.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops! Just ensure to increase the cooking time to 45 minutes.
2. What temperature is best for cooking scallops sous vide?
The optimal temperature is 123°F (51°C) for tender and juicy scallops.
3. What is cowboy butter?
Cowboy butter is a flavorful blend of butter, herbs, and spices, often used as a dipping sauce or drizzle for seafood and meats.
Cooking sous vide scallops redefines the experience of this delightful seafood. With a bit of practice, you’ll be impressing guests in no time! Enjoy your cooking journey!
Sous Vide Scallops
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat sous vide water bath to 123°F (51°C).
- Pat scallops dry and place in a vacuum-seal or zip-top bag with butter, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Seal the bag and place it in the water bath for 30 minutes (or 45 minutes if using frozen scallops).
- Once the time is up, carefully remove the scallops and pat them dry thoroughly.
- Heat a skillet over high heat and add oil or butter.
- Sear the scallops for 30 seconds per side until they are golden brown.
- Plate the scallops and serve with additional butter or garnish as desired.
