Delicious Asian-Style Whole Boiled Scallops
Nutritional value per serving
Calories180kcal
Carbs5gram
Fat3gram
Protein22gram
Ingredients
- Whole fresh scallops in shell (medium size)800 g
- Water1.5 liters
- Fresh ginger (sliced)30 g
- Green onions (cut into 2-inch pieces)4 stalks
- Soy sauce3 tbsp
- Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)2 tbsp
- Salt1 tsp
- Fresh red chili slices (optional)to taste n/a
This Asian-style whole boiled scallops recipe is an easy, flavorful way to enjoy fresh scallops. Boiling scallops whole preserves their delicate texture and natural sweetness. The Asian flavors from soy sauce, ginger, and green onions add a lovely aroma and zest. This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a light dinner or appetizer. The ingredients cost approximately $20/18€/16£/1600₹. This recipe yields 4 servings with about 180 kcal per serving, making it ideal for pescatarian diets. The cooking complexity is easy, and total time including preparation is about 30 minutes. Follow food safety guidelines carefully to ensure scallops are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for seafood. Be sure to handle scallops properly to avoid cross-contamination.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the scallops
1Rinse the whole scallops gently under cold running water to remove any sand or debris from the shells. Discard any scallops with cracked shells or that do not close when tapped. This ensures quality and safety.
Make the boiling broth
2In a large pot, add 1.5 liters of water along with sliced ginger, green onion pieces, salt, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine. Bring the broth to a boil over high heat, about 10 minutes. This broth will gently infuse the scallops with Asian flavors.
Boil the scallops
3Carefully add the scallops to the boiling broth. Cover and boil for 5-7 minutes until the scallop shells open wide. The scallops are cooked when the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C). Use a food thermometer to check if possible. Discard any unopened shells as they may not be safe to eat.
Serve
4Remove the scallops with a slotted spoon and place them on a serving dish. Garnish with fresh red chili slices (if using) and additional chopped green onions. Serve immediately while hot to enjoy their fresh, sweet flavor.
Cooking Tips
1Use fresh scallops that smell like the sea and avoid those with a strong fishy odor.
2If you don't have a food thermometer, cook scallops until their shells fully open and the flesh is opaque and firm.
3Avoid overcooking scallops to preserve their tender texture; prolonged boiling makes them rubbery.
4Serve boiled scallops with a side of steamed rice or noodles to complete the meal.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or saucepan
- Slotted spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Food thermometer (optional but recommended)
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Whole fresh scallops in shell (800g) - Approx. $15 - Choose scallops with closed shells and fresh, ocean smell.
- [ ] Fresh ginger (30g) - Approx. $0.30 - Pick firm roots without wrinkles or mushy spots.
- [ ] Green onions (4 stalks) - Approx. $0.50 - Select bright green, crisp stalks.
- [ ] Soy sauce (small bottle) - Approx. $2 - Opt for a naturally brewed soy sauce for best flavor.
- [ ] Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry) - Approx. $3 - Use for authentic flavor; omit if unavailable.
- [ ] Salt (small container) - Approx. $0.20 - Regular table salt works fine.
- [ ] Fresh red chili (optional) - Approx. $0.50 - Add if you like a mild heat.
Total Approximate Cost: $21
FAQ
How do I know when scallops are fully cooked?
Scallops are fully cooked when their shells open wide and the flesh is opaque and firm. If you have a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Any unopened shells after cooking should be discarded.
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Fresh scallops are best for this recipe, but you can use frozen scallops that are thawed completely in the refrigerator before boiling. Avoid refreezing scallops once thawed.
Is it safe to eat scallops that do not open during boiling?
No, scallops that do not open during cooking should be discarded as they may be unsafe to eat.
Can I add other ingredients to the boiling broth?
Yes, you can add aromatics like garlic, lemongrass, or star anise to enhance the flavor, but keep it simple to highlight the scallops' sweetness.