Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 20 bold and flavorful spicy Asian scallop recipes! Scallops are a versatile ingredient that can be easily adapted to various cuisines and cooking techniques. From the savory and sweet flavors of Korean gochujang to the fiery heat of Szechuan peppercorns, each dish on this list is a masterclass in balancing flavors and textures.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal prep or special occasion dinner. With a mix of stir-fries, glazes, sauces, and more, there’s something for every palate and cooking style. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of spicy Asian scallop delicacies!
Garlic Butter Soy Glazed Scallops
Elevate your dinner game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, butter, soy sauce, and sweetness. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, soy sauce, and honey until smooth.
4. Place the scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the scallops.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the scallops are opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy your Garlic Butter Soy Glazed Scallops!
Thai Basil Chili Scallop Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy stir-fry, featuring succulent scallops, aromatic basil, and a spicy kick. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai chili flakes (or more to taste)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooked jasmine rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add scallops; cook until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Stir in chili flakes and basil; cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve over cooked jasmine rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops
Elevate your seafood game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the sweetness of scallops with the savory flavors of sesame and ginger. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large sea scallops
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
4. Add the sesame seed mixture to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the scallops to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Korean Gochujang Glazed Scallops
This recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the bold flavors of Korean gochujang, resulting in a dish that’s both familiar and exotic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Place the scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Spoon the glaze over the scallops, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the scallops are opaque and slightly caramelized.
6. Garnish with fresh green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Scallop Skewers
Experience the bold flavors of Vietnam with these succulent scallop skewers, marinated in a zesty mixture of lemongrass, garlic, and chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/2 cup lemongrass paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemongrass paste, garlic, ginger, chili flakes, fish sauce, and lime juice.
2. Add the scallops to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread 4-5 scallops onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each one.
4. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Japanese Miso Butter Scallops
Experience the harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors with this simple yet impressive dish featuring succulent scallops, rich miso butter, and a hint of Asian-inspired spices.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp white miso paste
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, honey, and ginger until smooth.
4. Add softened butter to the bowl and mix until well combined.
5. Place scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the miso butter mixture evenly over the scallops.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until scallops are cooked through and slightly caramelized.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chinese Black Bean Sauce Scallops
This recipe combines succulent scallops with the rich flavors of Chinese black bean sauce, garlic, and ginger for a deliciously savory dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup Chinese black bean sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add scallops; cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
4. Stir in black bean sauce and soy sauce; cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Scallop Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this spicy and savory dish, featuring succulent scallops cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/2 cup Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 8 ounces noodles (such as soba or udon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add the scallops and cook until they’re opaque and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the scallops from the wok and set aside. In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, ground Szechuan peppercorns, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili bean paste, and cornstarch mixture. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the wok and stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes, until the noodles are well coated with the spicy sauce.
6. Return the scallops to the wok and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malaysian Curry Scallop Laksa
This recipe combines the flavors of Malaysia with the freshness of scallops, creating a hearty and aromatic noodle dish perfect for any meal. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 12-15 scallops
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches ginger, sliced
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup laksa leaves or spinach
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and chili flakes; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add scallops; cook until they are opaque and just cooked through (2-3 minutes per side).
5. Add coconut milk and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in laksa leaves or spinach.
7. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; drain.
8. Serve scallop mixture over noodles with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Indonesian Sambal Scallop Fried Rice
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional fried rice, this Indonesian-inspired dish combines succulent scallops with sambal chili paste, savory soy sauce, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon sambal chili paste
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for another minute.
4. Add scallops and cook until they start to sear, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in sambal chili paste, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cooked rice and stir-fry until well combined and heated through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Filipino Adobo Glazed Scallops
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of the Philippines with this unique recipe that combines succulent scallops with the classic adobo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/4 cup Filipino adobo sauce (see note)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together adobo sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and vegetable oil.
4. Place scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the scallops.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until scallops are cooked through and caramelized.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Note: Filipino adobo sauce is a savory condiment made from soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves. You can find it in most Asian grocery stores or online.
Singaporean Chili Crab-Style Scallops
Elevate your seafood game with this bold and flavorful recipe, inspired by the iconic Singaporean dish. Succulent scallops are smothered in a spicy tomato-based sauce, reminiscent of the national treasure that is chili crab.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup Singaporean chili sauce (or similar)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add scallops; cook until they turn opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together crushed tomatoes, chili sauce, tomato paste, and fish sauce.
5. Pour the sauce over the scallops; simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cambodian Kampot Pepper Scallops
Experience the bold flavors of Cambodia with this recipe featuring succulent scallops infused with the unique and aromatic Kampot pepper.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Kampot pepper, crushed
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add crushed Kampot pepper and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add fish sauce, lime juice, and coconut milk. Stir to combine.
6. Add scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Taiwanese Scallop Oyster Omelette
This Taiwanese-inspired omelette combines the sweetness of scallops and oysters with the savory flavor of eggs, all wrapped up in a crispy pancake. Perfect for a unique breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup scallops, chopped
– 1/4 cup oysters, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
4. Pour in egg mixture; cook until edges start to set.
5. Add scallops and oysters; fold omelette in half.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until eggs are cooked through.
7. Slide onto a plate and garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hong Kong Style Scallop Chow Mein
A classic Cantonese dish that combines tender scallops with savory stir-fried noodles and a hint of soy sauce, this recipe is a must-try for any chow mein enthusiast. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1 cup Hong Kong-style chow mein noodles (or regular chow mein noodles)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, bok choy, carrots)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic, ginger, and mixed vegetables. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Add scallops and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour the sauce over the noodles and scallop mixture. Stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Indian Scallop Masala Curry
Savor the rich flavors of India with this aromatic curry made with succulent scallops, creamy coconut milk, and a blend of warming spices.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add scallops; cook until they turn opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Stir in coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-12 minutes or until scallops are cooked through.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Bangladeshi Scallop Bhuna
This recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the bold flavors of Bangladeshi spices, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. With its rich and aromatic curry sauce, this Scallop Bhuna is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons tomato puree
– 2 tablespoons yogurt
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add onions, garlic, and spices (except chili powder). Cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they’re pinkish-white.
4. Mix in tomato puree, yogurt, and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Sri Lankan Coconut Scallop Curry
Sri Lankan Coconut Scallop Curry Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of Sri Lanka with this creamy and aromatic curry, featuring succulent scallops in a rich coconut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops; cook until browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
2. In the same skillet, add onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer. Return scallops to the skillet; season with salt and black pepper. Simmer until scallops are cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Nepalese Scallop Momo Dumplings
Nepalese Scallop Momo Dumplings: A Twist on a Classic
Discover the unique flavor of Nepal’s national dish with this recipe, which combines tender scallops with aromatic spices and wrapped in a delicate dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large scallops
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the scallops and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove the scallops from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric powder, and red chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the cooked scallops back to the pan and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. To make the dough, combine flour and lukewarm water in a bowl. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Place a spoonful of the scallop mixture onto the center of the dough circle, then fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or half-moon shape.
7. Fry the momos in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Laotian Scallop Laap Salad
A refreshing twist on the classic Lao dish, this Scallop Laap Salad combines succulent scallops with a tangy and savory dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound scallops
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as mint, basil, and cilantro)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chilies
– 1/4 cup toasted peanuts or cashews
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook scallops according to package instructions until tender. Slice into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chopped chilies, and toasted nuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and soy sauce.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked scallops to the salad and toss gently to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your scallop game with these 20 mouth-watering Asian delicacies! From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Soy Glazed Scallops and Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops, to bold and spicy creations like Thai Basil Chili Scallop Stir-Fry and Korean Gochujang Glazed Scallops. Explore the flavors of Southeast Asia with Vietnamese Lemongrass Scallop Skewers and Indonesian Sambal Scallop Fried Rice, or indulge in the richness of Japanese Miso Butter Scallops and Chinese Black Bean Sauce Scallops. Whether you’re a fan of spicy Szechuan noodles or comforting Hong Kong-style Chow Mein, there’s something for every palate on this flavorful journey!
