20 Stir Fry Scallops Recipe Chinese Elevate Your Taste Buds!

Preparing the Scallops

Choosing the Right Scallops

When it comes to stir frying, it's important to use fresh scallops. Look for scallops that are plump and firm, with a slightly sweet smell. Avoid scallops that have a strong fishy odor or are slimy to the touch. Dry scallops are also preferred, as they have not been treated with chemicals and will sear better in the pan.

Cleaning and Prepping

Before you start cooking, it's essential to properly clean and prep the scallops. Begin by rinsing them with cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Next, remove the small side muscle and any excess moisture by gently pressing the scallops between paper towels. This will ensure that your scallops cook evenly and have a nice sear.

Making the Stir Fry Sauce

Gathering Your Ingredients

To create an authentic Chinese stir fry sauce, you'll need soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and cornstarch. These ingredients will provide a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors in your dish.

Mixing the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Whisk the ingredients together until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. This will create a thick and flavorful sauce that will coat your scallops perfectly.

Stir Frying the Scallops

Heating the Pan

Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until it starts to smoke lightly. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan and swirl it around to coat the surface evenly. It's essential to use an oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut oil or vegetable oil, to prevent burning.

Stir Frying the Scallops

Once the pan is hot, carefully add the scallops in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Let them cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust. Then, using a spatula, gently flip the scallops over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Adding the Sauce

Once the scallops are cooked, pour the stir fry sauce over them, and toss to coat evenly. Let the sauce thicken and coat the scallops for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then remove the pan from the heat.

Serving and Enjoying

Garnishing and Serving

Garnish your stir fry scallops with chopped green onions and sliced red chili peppers for an extra kick of flavor and color. Serve the scallops over a bed of steamed rice or alongside your favorite stir fry vegetables.

Experimenting with Flavors

Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients in your stir fry scallops. You can add garlic, ginger, or chili paste to the sauce for a more intense flavor profile. You can also mix and match different vegetables and proteins, such as broccoli, shrimp, or beef, to create a unique and delicious dish every time. Now that you have a delicious and easy stir fry scallops recipe, it's time to gather your ingredients and give it a try. With the right technique and a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering Chinese dish that will impress even the most discerning palates. Happy cooking!