Start by preparing the cauliflower. Cut off the green leaves and the tough core. Divide the head into smaller florets, trying to keep them similar in size - this will ensure they cook evenly. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water.
Description
This dish is the epitome of elegance and lightness, perfect for a moment when you don't have a big appetite but crave something absolutely exceptional. Imagine perfectly seared, sweet, and juicy scallops resting on a velvety, creamy cauliflower purée, whose deep, earthy flavor is enhanced by a luxurious hint of saffron. The whole dish is bathed in a light, clear butter sauce with a refreshing, lemony note that perfectly balances the richness of the flavors. The presentation is stunning – golden scallops contrast with the intensely yellow purée and the green of fresh herbs. It is a proposal that stimulates the senses and proves that a small portion can deliver maximum culinary pleasure. Perfect as an exquisite appetizer for a special occasion or a light, satisfying dinner.
Składniki (11)
- Scallops (Saint Jacques shellfish) 6 szt.
- Cauliflower 400 g
- Masło klarowane 4 łyżki
- Milk 3.2% 100 ml
- Lemon 0.4 szt.
- Garlic 1 ząbek
- Sea salt 3 g
- 🌿 Przyprawy
- Saffron threads 0.2 g
- Pieprz czarny świeżo mielony 2 szczypty
- ✨ Opcjonalne
- Wytrawne białe wino 50 ml
- Fresh dill or parsley leaves 5 g
💡 Kliknij na składnik aby oznaczyć jako użyty
Preparation steps
Saffron Cauliflower Purée
Place the cauliflower florets in a medium-sized pot. Cover them with cold water just halfway up the cauliflower and add a generous pinch of salt. Cover the pot and cook over medium heat for about 12-15 minutes. The cauliflower is ready when a fork goes in without any resistance. Drain it very thoroughly in a colander.
In a small saucepan, heat the milk, but do not bring it to a boil – it should be hot, but not boiling. Remove from heat, add the saffron threads, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. You will see how the milk takes on a beautiful, intense yellow color, and the saffron releases its aroma. This is a key step to extract the full flavor and color from the spice.
Transfer the cooked and drained cauliflower to a blender jar or a tall container. Pour in the saffron milk. Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until you achieve a perfectly smooth, velvety consistency without any lumps. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground pepper. Cover and set aside in a warm place.
Lemon-Butter Sauce
In a small pan, melt half of the butter (about 30g) over medium heat. Peel and finely chop the garlic or press it through a garlic press. Add it to the heated butter and sauté for about 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly, until it releases its aroma. Be careful not to burn it, as it will become bitter.
If you are using wine, pour it into the pan. Increase the heat and cook for 1-2 minutes until the alcohol evaporates and the liquid reduces by half. Then add freshly squeezed lemon juice. Reduce the heat to low and add the remaining butter, cut into small cubes. Whisk vigorously until the butter melts and a smooth emulsion forms. Remove from heat and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Preparation of Scallops and Serving
Prepare the scallops. If they have a small, tough muscle on the side, remove it with your fingers – it becomes tough and rubbery when cooked. Rinse the scallops under cold water and dry them VERY THOROUGHLY with paper towels. This is the most important step – a dry surface ensures a beautiful, golden crust when frying.
Heat a large skillet (preferably stainless steel or cast iron) over high heat until very hot. Add a tablespoon of clarified butter. Just before placing the scallops in the skillet, season them with salt and pepper on both sides. Arrange them in the hot skillet, leaving space between each. Sear without moving for 1.5-2 minutes on one side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Flip them and sear for another 1-1.5 minutes on the other side. The meat in the center should remain slightly translucent.
Serve the dish immediately. Place a large spoonful of warm cauliflower purée in the center of each plate. Using the back of a spoon, create an artistic indentation or swipe in the purée. Arrange 3 sautéed scallops on top. Drizzle gently with lemon-butter sauce. If using, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped dill or parsley. Serve right away while the scallops are hot and juicy.
Fun Fact
The scallop shell, known as the shell of St. James, has been a symbol of pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela in Spain since the Middle Ages. Pilgrims wore it as proof of their journey.
Best for
Tips
Serve the dish immediately after preparation to ensure the scallops are perfectly juicy. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of chilled, dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chablis, whose acidity will enhance the flavor of the seafood and balance the buttery sauce.
This dish is intended for immediate consumption and is not suitable for storage. Reheated scallops become tough and rubbery. Cauliflower purée can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and before serving, it can be warmed up with a little milk.
📸 Ugotowane przez społeczność
Zaloguj się, aby dodać zdjęcieDodaj zdjęcie gotowej potrawy
Po zatwierdzeniu przez moderatora otrzymasz 10 punktów doświadczenia.
Nikt jeszcze nie dodał zdjęcia. Bądź pierwszy!
Comments (0)
Be the first to comment on this recipe!
Add a comment