Scallops with carrots and coconut milk

Delicious Recipe: Scallops Saint Jacques with Carrots and Coconut Milk

Discover the refined flavor of Scallops Saint Jacques, an elegant and sophisticated dish perfect for impressing guests during festive occasions. These marine mollusks are not only a culinary delight but also a living story of traditions and legends, bringing a touch of magic and history to your table.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 3-4

Necessary ingredients:

- 9 fresh scallops
- 2 thin slices of fresh ginger (with skin)
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 shallot
- 2 carrots
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 30 g butter
- 200 ml coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Sea salt
- Freshly ground pepper

Ingredient preparation

Start by cleaning and preparing the vegetables. Wash the carrots well and peel them. Then, using a peeler, cut the carrots into thin tagliatelle. This technique will not only make them visually appealing but also allow for even and quick cooking. Finely chop the shallot, garlic, and ginger, which will add an intense flavor to the dish.

A helpful tip: to enhance the flavor of the ginger, try slicing it very thinly or even grating it, depending on your preference. This will allow the flavors to release more quickly during cooking.

Vegetable preparation

In a skillet or wok, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, shallot, and chopped ginger and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and release their aromas. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of the dish.

Add the sliced carrots and continue to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. At this point, pour in the coconut milk, add the turmeric powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for a few minutes for the flavors to harmonize.

Scallop preparation

The scallops are what will transform this dish into a true gastronomic experience. If you haven't cleaned the scallops beforehand, ask your fishmonger for assistance, but if you want to do this at home, here's how:

1. Remove the shell (if applicable) and rinse the scallop meat under cold running water.
2. Clean the scallops of the black sac, ensuring you only keep the white part and, if desired, the orange roe. If you don't like the taste of the roe, you can remove it, but I encourage you to keep it for added flavor.

Once you've cleaned the scallops, gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. When the butter is fully melted, add the scallops, season with salt and pepper. Sauté them for 5-8 minutes, turning them a few times, until they become golden and well-cooked. I recommend not overcooking them to avoid a rubbery texture.

Plating the dish

To create an elegant presentation, use a stainless steel ring to shape the rice portions. Cook the rice according to the package instructions, and once it’s ready, place it in the ring on the plate. Then, add the cooked carrot vegetables on top, and finally, the Scallops Saint Jacques. Don’t forget to drizzle a few spoonfuls of the delicious coconut milk and turmeric sauce over the top.

Serve the dish warm, perhaps alongside a fresh arugula salad with cherry tomatoes or with a dry white wine that will perfectly complement the flavors.

Nutritional benefits

Scallops are an excellent source of lean protein, vitamins (B12, B6), and minerals (iron, zinc, selenium). Additionally, coconut milk adds a healthy fat content, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it perfect for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of scallops?
Yes, you can use other mollusks, but the taste and texture will vary. Scallops offer a unique flavor, but alternatives like mussels or shrimp can work as well.

2. How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian diet?
You can replace the scallops with tofu or shiitake mushrooms, which will absorb the flavors of the sauce.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a festive meal?
Absolutely! The dish is elegant, refined, and will surely impress your guests.

Possible variations

To personalize the recipe, you can add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness. Additionally, a squeeze of lime or lemon juice before serving will bring a pleasant acidity that balances the sweetness of the coconut milk.

A personal note

When I first cooked this recipe for a special occasion, I was completely delighted by my friends' reactions. Every time I prepare it, I remember that joyful and appreciative atmosphere. Therefore, I encourage you to make it with love and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen.

Enjoy your meal and have an unforgettable cooking experience!