That does sound like such a romantic and charming Valentine’s Day idea! Seared scallops with smoky sweet corn purée will surely be a sophisticated but palatable dinner to impress your companion. It’s fabulous to be able to make use of left-over grilled corn, which cuts down on waste but adds even more fabulous flavor to this dish. Let me know if you need any tips or help preparing it.
Inspiration and Ingredients
Inspiration for this course came from the abundance of sweet corn: perfectly roasted, then reduced to a smoky sweet puree, served with seared scallops. The scallops—fried in a mixture of butter and bacon drippings, dusting them with smoked paprika—are a fine counterpoint to the creamy, faintly grainy corn puree.
Key Ingredients
– Sea Scallops: Ensure they are of high quality and free from chemicals. Look for scallops labeled as ‘dry-packed’ or ‘chemical-free’.
– Sweet Corn: Grilled for a smoky flavor, then pureed with cream cheese and half-and-half or cream.
– Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth to the scallops.
– Bacon Drippings: Infuses additional flavor into the seared scallops.
– Fresh Chives: For a fresh, herbaceous garnish.
– Crispy Bacon: Adds texture and a savory crunch.
Preparing the Dish
Preparing the Scallops
1. Select and Prepare Scallops: Buy high-quality sea scallops. If purchasing frozen scallops, ensure they are labeled as ‘sea scallops’ with no added ingredients. Thaw and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Seasoning: Season the scallops with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Searing: In a skillet, heat a combination of butter and bacon drippings over medium-high heat. Add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked to medium doneness.
Making the Smoky Sweet Corn Puree
1. Grill the Corn: If you haven’t already, grill the corn until it’s slightly charred and smoky. This can be done on an outdoor grill or a grill pan.
2. Puree the Corn: Cut the kernels off the cob and combine them with cream cheese and half-and-half or cream in a food processor. Process until almost smooth, leaving some texture.
3. Seasoning: Season the puree with cayenne, salt, and black pepper to taste. Keep the puree warm until ready to serve.
Bringing It All Together
Plating the Dish
1. Prepare the Plate: Spoon a generous portion of the smoky sweet corn puree onto the center of each plate.
2. Add the Scallops: Place the seared scallops on top of the corn puree.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh chives and crispy bacon bits over the top for added flavor and visual appeal.
Tips for a Perfect Finish
– Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to the best flavor.
– Temperature Control: Ensure your skillet is hot enough to give the scallops a nice sear without overcooking them.
– Balancing Flavors: Taste the corn puree and adjust the seasoning as needed to balance the sweetness of the corn with the savory elements of the dish.
Ditch the restaurant reservation this Valentine’s Day and go for a really memorable dining experience at home, complete with seared scallops featuring a smoky sweet corn purée. This is an elevated creation of sweetness with the charred corn and savory, browned scallops—the epitome of love celebrated as food, yet refined and sincere. Make it a night of flavorful bites and shared moments for a truly unforgettable Valentine’s Day.
Related posts:
Seared Scallops with Smoky Sweet Corn Puree
Sweet Corn Puree with Seared Scallops
