Cooking frozen scallops can be a straightforward and delicious process if you follow the right techniques. Here are several methods to achieve perfectly cooked scallops, whether you prefer them pan-seared, braised, boiled, or cooked in an air fryer.
Preparing Frozen Scallops
Before cooking, it’s crucial to understand the basics of handling frozen scallops:
Thawing: While it is possible to cook scallops directly from the frozen state, some methods require thawing. The best way to thaw scallops is to do so gradually in the refrigerator[4].
Drying: If you plan to pan-sear or broil scallops, it’s essential to pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps in achieving a nice sear and prevents the scallops from steaming instead of browning[2][3].
Cooking Methods
Pan-Seared Scallops
For a classic pan-seared method:
Heat and Oil: Preheat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer before adding the scallops[2].
Adding Scallops: Place the scallops in a single layer and sear on one side until golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes. Flip the scallops and add a big pat of butter, basting them with the melting butter for another 2 to 3 minutes[2].
Tips: Cook only 8-10 scallops at a time to avoid boiling them in their own moisture. If too much water builds up, pour off the excess and add more butter or oil if needed[1].
Braising in a Flavorful Sauce
Braising is an excellent method for cooking frozen scallops, especially when you want to retain moisture and flavor:
Ingredients: Use ingredients like olive oil, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and herbs to create a flavorful sauce[3].
Cooking: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tomatoes, onion, garlic, and herbs, and simmer until the sauce reduces. Stir in the frozen scallops, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the scallops braise for about 8 minutes or until they are opaque throughout[3].
Boiled and Pan-Seared Scallops
Boiling followed by pan-searing is another effective method:
Boiling: Bring water to a boil in a dutch oven and carefully lower the frozen scallops into the boiling water. Boil for 4-5 minutes or until the scallops can be easily pierced with an instant thermometer[5].
Pan-Seared: Remove the boiled scallops from the water, pat them dry with a paper towel, and sear them in a hot skillet with butter for one minute per side. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice[5].
Air Fryer Method
For a quick and crispy result, use an air fryer:
Temperature and Time: Set the air fryer to 360°F (for frozen scallops) and cook for about 12 minutes. You can add butter and seasonings as desired[1].
Tips: This method is great for achieving a golden brown sear on the outside while keeping the inside soft.
Microwave Method
If you’re in a hurry or have limited cooking facilities, the microwave can be a viable option:
Defrosting: Defrost the scallops in the microwave on low power (30% power) for about 4 minutes. Then, cover the scallops with vented plastic wrap and cook on high power for an additional 4-5 minutes or until tender[1].
Tips: For a golden brown sear, finish the scallops in a hot pan with olive oil and butter.
Important Facts to Remember
Thawing: While some methods allow cooking directly from frozen, gradual thawing in the refrigerator is often the best approach[4].
Drying: Patting the scallops dry with paper towels is crucial for achieving a good sear and preventing steaming[2][3].
Cooking Time:
Pan-searing: 3 minutes per side[1][2].
Braising: 8 minutes in a covered pan[3].
Boiling: 4-5 minutes followed by 1 minute per side pan-searing[5].
Air Fryer: 12 minutes at 360°F[1].
Microwave: Defrost for 4 minutes, then cook for an additional 4-5 minutes[1].
Internal Temperature: Ensure the scallops are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F according to the USDA[5].
Moisture Control: When pan-searing, cook in batches to avoid boiling the scallops in their own moisture. Pour off excess water and add more butter or oil if necessary[1].
By following these methods and tips, you can enjoy perfectly cooked, tender, and flavorful scallops even when starting with frozen ones.
