Scallop Risotto

scallop_risotto

When it comes to seafood, few things rival the delightful taste and texture of fresh scallops. In the New England region, scallops are not just a delicacy but also a way of life. Located along the North Atlantic coast, New England boasts some of the best seafood in the world, thanks to its thriving fishing industry and commitment to sustainable fishing practices. And when it comes to preparing scallops, few dishes embody the New England culinary tradition quite like scallop risotto.

This delicious and comforting dish combines the briny sweetness of seared scallops with creamy, earthy risotto, creating a rich and flavorful meal that is perfect for cold winter nights or special occasions. The combination of rich flavors and textures makes this dish versatile enough to be served as a comforting weeknight dinner or as an impressive main course for a dinner party.

One of the keys to making an excellent risotto is using high-quality ingredients. In this recipe, fresh, plump scallops are essential — you’ll want to get the freshest scallops possible from a reputable seafood supplier. This dish also calls for Arborio rice, which is a short-grain Italian rice that is perfect for creating a creamy texture. You’ll need chicken broth, dry white wine, and Parmesan cheese to create the risotto’s creamy texture and flavor.

To get started, you’ll need to sear the scallops in hot oil until they are browned and cooked through. In the same pan, you’ll sauté onions, garlic, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Add the Arborio rice, white wine, and chicken broth to the pan and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and the mixture has become creamy and thick. Lastly, you’ll stir in the Parmesan cheese and some chopped parsley for a fresh burst of flavor.

This dish can be enjoyed on its own as a main course, or you can pair it with a crisp green salad or a side of sautéed green beans or asparagus. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, consider pairing it with a bottle of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, which complement the flavors of the dish perfectly.

In conclusion, scallop risotto is a comforting and delicious dish that perfectly captures the essence of New England cuisine. The dish is easy to prepare, and with a few fresh ingredients, you can create a rich and flavorful meal that will delight your friends and family. Whether you’re serving it up for a special occasion or a casual dinner, scallop risotto is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. fresh sea scallops, cleaned
  • 1 cup arborio rice
  • 2 tbsp. butter
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 medium sweet onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cups seafood or chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup white wine
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp. heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions:

  1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.

  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter. When the butter has melted, add the scallops and cook for 1-2 minutes per side or until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the scallops from the pan and set them aside.

  3. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Saute the onions until they are softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

  4. Add the arborio rice to the skillet and cook until it begins to turn golden brown, stirring occasionally.

  5. Pour in the white wine and stir until it is absorbed by the rice.

  6. Begin adding the broth 1 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each addition to be fully absorbed before adding the next one. Continue this process until the rice is tender and the mixture is creamy, about 25-30 minutes.

  7. Stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese.

  8. Cut the scallops into bite-sized pieces and fold them into the risotto.

  9. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

  10. When the risotto is ready, transfer it to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your delicious New England scallop risotto!