Spicy Vegetable Cheese Scallops: A Taste of the Sea with a Cheesy Kick!
Cheesy, Spicy, and Utterly Delicious Baked Scallops with Fresh Vegetables
The scallop season has arrived, and my youngest sibling sent over some fresh ones! I’ve enjoyed them steamed, and now I’ve tried them baked with vegetables and cheese. Topped with ‘Toktok Vegetable’ seasoning and spicy Cheongyang peppers, they cut through the richness of the scallops perfectly, preventing any greasiness and making them incredibly addictive. This recipe elevates simple scallops into a gourmet experience.
Ingredients- 8 fresh scallops
- 1.5 Tbsp finely minced onion
- 1.5 Tbsp finely minced carrot
- 1.5 Tbsp finely minced tomato (seeds and pulp removed)
- 3 slices cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tsp ‘Toktok Vegetable’ chives (finely chopped chives)
- 1 tsp ‘Toktok Vegetable’ Cheongyang chili pepper (very finely minced)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, thoroughly clean the scallops by removing any dirt or debris attached to the shells using a brush. Then, soak the scallops in cold water for about 1 hour to purge any sand. After purging, place the scallops in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and let them rest, covered, for another 5 minutes. This steaming and resting process ensures they are moist and tender.
Step 2
Once the scallops are cooked, carefully remove the top shell, leaving only one shell with the scallop meat attached. This makes it easier to add toppings and bake them evenly.
Step 3
Now, let’s prepare the toppings that will add flavor and texture! Finely mince the carrot, onion, and tomato. For the tomato, it’s best to remove the seeds and some of the pulp to prevent excess moisture. Tear or chop the cheese into small pieces.
Step 4
It’s time to beautifully assemble the scallops! Place a small amount of the minced carrot, onion, and tomato onto each scallop. Then, generously top with the prepared cheese. The melting cheese will bind all the delicious ingredients together.
Step 5
Finally, add the finishing touches for an extra layer of flavor. Sprinkle a little of the ‘Toktok Vegetable’ chopped chives and the very finely minced Cheongyang chili pepper over each scallop. The spicy kick from the chili pepper is fantastic for cutting through the richness of the scallops and cheese, making each bite exciting.
Step 6
Place the assembled scallops into an oven-style air fryer. Preheat the air fryer, then cook at 170°C (338°F) for about 5 to 6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the toppings are heated through. Adjust the time as needed based on your air fryer model.
Step 7
And there you have it! Deliciously baked vegetable and cheese scallops, hot and ready to be enjoyed. Savor the succulent texture of the scallops, the fresh crunch of the vegetables, and the gooey, melted cheese with a hint of spice. It’s a truly delightful dish!
