Perfect Seared Scallops (2024)

FAQs

What is the secret to perfect scallops? ›

You want a hot skillet when pan-searing scallops.

If you pat the scallops dry, dust them with flour, and use a hot pan, you will guarantee a beautiful golden brown sear.

Scallops, like many other types of seafood, can have a mild fishy odor that some people find off-putting. Soaking scallops in milk before cooking can help alleviate this odor. Milk can neutralize or mask the fishy smell, resulting in a milder scent.

Scallops are low-fat and high in protein with lots of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. While I recommend cooking them in butter for the best sear, you can cook them in vegetable, canola or grapeseed oil if preferred.

If added too early the scallops will stick the pan. The oil should be slightly bubbling and dancing. If the pan isn't hot enough, you will steam the scallops instead of searing them. Spacing – Don't over crowd the pan or they will not brown properly.

Give your scallops a quick rinse to remove any grit, then thoroughly pat dry with a few paper towels, as excess moisture will inhibit searing. For added insurance, you can dry your scallops in the fridge for an hour or two before cooking.

Dry the Scallops

Before you're ready to start cooking, pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. Expelling as much moisture as possible will help to create that signature, golden-brown crust on the outside.

Online research had recommended letting the fish soak submerged in milk for around 20 minutes, before rinsing and cooking in your preferred fashion.

Putting your scallop under water will wash away impurities and get rid of sand and other grit. Run it under cold water for at least 30 seconds. Rub the scallop with your fingers. This will make sure that all impurities have been removed from the scallop.

For more even-cooking, and for that center to cook more quickly, take the scallops out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. Don't put them in the sun or in a warm place. Just room temperature.

Once the fat begins to smoke, gently add the scallops, making sure they are not touching each other. Sear the scallops for 1 1/2 minutes on each side. The scallops should have a 1/4-inch golden crust on each side while still being translucent in the center.

Is it better to broil or pan sear scallops? ›

Generally, the best way to cook scallops is searing them. Seared scallops are cooked on the stovetop, usually in a cast iron skillet to get an excellent sear, using butter or oil to get them nice and crispy. The result is a crisp, golden brown exterior with a delicate balance of savory, tender scallops inside.

Add the butter and olive oil to a large non-stick saute pan over high heat. Once it's smoking, add the scallops. Don't crowd the pan and work in two batches if necessary. Sear the scallops for 2 minutes on each side, until the sides are golden and the centers are translucent.

Scallops are cooked when they are firm, nicely browned and opaque all the way through. If the reason you end up overcooking scallops is because you're waiting for them to get nicely browned, make sure to pat the scallops dry, do not overcrowd the pan, and cook them for only 2 to 3 minutes per side over high heat.

After searing a few batches, we determined that scallops are perfectly cooked when their centers reach 115 degrees. Because scallops are so small and are usually cooked over high heat, carryover cooking will add another 10 to 15 degrees, for an ideal final temperature of 125 to 130 degrees.”

Scallops are quick-cooking shellfish, so it's key not to overcook them or they'll dry out. Generally, sea scallops take between 3 and 5 minutes to cook. How to know when scallops are done cooking? They'll be golden brown on both sides, just-firm at the edges and opaque and succulent in the center.

Once the scallops have caramelized (3–4 minutes), flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes to finish. Be careful not to overcook. When overcooked, scallops will turn rubbery and chewy.

A double-dredge simply means that you toss your scallops (or chicken or whatever you're coating) in the same coating mixture twice, with a dunk in beaten eggs between. This process builds up a thicker coating and helps the crust adhere to the scallop better. And with just two bowls, it's less messy.

You can use either canola oil or olive oil, although canola oil has a slightly higher smoke point. Avocado oil is also an option. Salt & Pepper: You always need to season your food before you cook it. While scallops are naturally sweet, they will need some salt and pepper.