Snow Pea and Scallop Stir-Fry: A Deliciously Elegant Dish
Snow Pea and Scallop Stir-Fry Recipe.
Scallops are always a winning choice! They’re delicious when pan-seared or deep-fried, and also fantastic in hot pot. This recipe brings together tender scallops and crisp snow peas for a delightful texture and rich flavor experience.
Ingredients- Snow Peas: 200g (substitute with green beans, broccoli, or asparagus if unavailable)
- Large Scallops: 4 pieces
- Sake (or Mirin): 1 Tbsp
- Cornstarch (or Potato Starch): 1 Tbsp
- Minced Garlic: 1/2 Tbsp
- Sugar: 1/2 tsp
- Oyster Sauce: 1 Tbsp
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
This recipe is designed for approximately 4 servings. The main ingredient, 200g of snow peas, can be substituted with fresh green beans, broccoli, or asparagus to suit your preference. Snow peas are edible podded peas, and when cooked, they offer a texture and sweetness similar to edamame.
Step 2
Begin by trimming the snow peas. Use scissors to snip off the tough, stringy ends on both sides of each pod for a cleaner presentation and easier eating.
Step 3
Take the 4 large scallops and slice them thinly, about 2mm thick. Slicing them thinly is key to ensuring they cook quickly and remain tender and succulent.
Step 4
Place the thinly sliced scallops in a bowl and sprinkle them with 1 Tbsp of cornstarch (or potato starch). Gently toss the scallops to coat them evenly. This light coating will help retain moisture during cooking, resulting in a more tender texture.
Step 5
Add 1 Tbsp of sake (or mirin) to the coated scallops. The sake helps to eliminate any potential ‘fishy’ odor from the scallops and adds a subtle depth of flavor.
Step 6
Gently massage the scallops with your hands to ensure the starch and sake are well combined. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes for best results.
Step 7
Place the prepared snow peas in a microwave-safe dish. Cook on high power for about 1 to 2 minutes, just until they turn bright green and are slightly tender-crisp. Overcooking will make them lose their vibrant color and crispness.
Step 8
You’ll notice the snow peas are now beautifully vibrant green and perfectly blanched, retaining their satisfying crunch.
Step 9
Heat 2 Tbsp of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the 1/2 Tbsp of minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 10
Once the garlic is fragrant, add the marinated scallops to the hot pan. Stir-fry quickly over high heat until they turn opaque and slightly golden brown. Scallops cook very fast, so avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
Step 11
Remove the seared scallops from the pan and set them aside on a clean plate. This prevents them from continuing to cook in the hot pan.
Step 12
In the same pan, add the microwaved snow peas. Sprinkle in the 1/2 tsp of sugar and stir-fry for about 1 minute, allowing the peas to slightly caramelize and absorb some flavor.
Step 13
Return the seared scallops to the pan with the snow peas. Toss everything together gently.
Step 14
Finally, add 1 Tbsp of oyster sauce to the pan. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly. The oyster sauce adds a savory umami depth that ties the dish together. Once everything is well combined, your delicious Snow Pea and Scallop Stir-Fry is ready!
Step 15
This dish makes for a fantastic appetizer, a delightful side, or a satisfying main course. Serve it to impress your guests or enjoy a special meal that’s sure to receive compliments!
