Introduction
Scallops are a delicate seafood that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One of the most popular and delicious ways to cook scallops is by following Gordon Ramsay’s recipe. Ramsay is a world-renowned chef and his recipe for scallops is simple yet flavorful. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to cook scallops following Gordon Ramsay’s recipe.
Step 1: Purchase Fresh Scallops
The first step to cooking scallops following Gordon Ramsay’s recipe is to purchase fresh scallops. Look for scallops that have a sweet, briny smell and are firm to the touch. Avoid scallops that are slimy or have a strong fishy odor. Fresh scallops can be found at your local seafood market or grocery store. It is important to note that frozen scallops can also be used, but they must be thawed completely before cooking.
Step 2: Clean and Prepare Scallops
Once you have purchased fresh scallops, the next step is to clean and prepare them. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Remove any side muscles that are still attached to the scallops. To do this, simply grasp the muscles with your fingers and pull them away from the scallop. This will ensure that the scallops cook evenly.
Step 3: Season the Scallops
To add flavor to the scallops, season them with salt and pepper. Be careful not to over-season the scallops, as they have a delicate flavor that can be easily overwhelmed. Set the seasoned scallops aside while you heat the pan.
Step 4: Heat the Pan
Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and swirl to coat. The pan should be very hot before adding the scallops.
Step 5: Add the Scallops to the Pan
Once the pan is hot, carefully add the scallops to the pan. Make sure that the scallops are not touching each other, as this will cause them to steam instead of sear. Sear the scallops for 1-2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
Step 6: Cook the Scallops
After searing the scallops, reduce the heat to medium-high and continue cooking them for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side. The scallops should be cooked through but still tender.
Step 7: Add Butter and Baste
Add a tablespoon of butter to the pan and tilt the pan so that the butter melts and coats the scallops. Using a spoon, baste the scallops with the melted butter for about 30 seconds. This will add richness and depth of flavor to the scallops.
Step 8: Remove Scallops from the Pan
Using tongs, remove the scallops from the pan and set them aside on a warm plate. Cover the plate with foil to keep the scallops warm while you make the sauce.
Step 9: Make the Sauce
In the same pan that you cooked the scallops in, add a tablespoon of butter and a minced shallot. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the shallot is translucent. Add 1/4 cup of white wine to the pan and simmer until the wine has reduced by half. Add a tablespoon of lemon juice and a tablespoon of chopped parsley to the pan and stir to combine.
Step 10: Plate the Scallops
To plate the scallops, spoon the sauce over the scallops and garnish with additional chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Conclusion
Cooking scallops following Gordon Ramsay’s recipe is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy this delicious seafood. By following these steps, you can create perfectly seared scallops with a rich and flavorful sauce. Remember to use fresh scallops, season them lightly, and baste them with butter for the best results. Happy cooking!
