What Are Scallops?
Scallops are a popular seafood treat that falls under the most liked dishes in any restaurant. Scallops are bivalves; they have two seashells, like oysters and clams. They are famous as “the candy of the sea.” Furthermore, they are an expensive version of shellfish having edible adductor muscle!
Regardless of its popularity, there still are so many people who haven’t tried it as yet and wonder what does scallops taste like. Therefore, in this article, we will dig deep into its taste profile, similarities with other seafood and best ways to cook them.
What Does Scallops Taste Like?
Scallops are extremely delicious and healthy seafood- that’s why it has been given the nickname of “the candy of the sea.” Scallops have a sweet and mild flavor- which makes them highly prized. They have a juicy, tender, and buttery texture, and they taste similar to lobster and crabs. Scallops don’t have an overly fishy taste, but they have a saltwater essence!
However, some scallops can have a slightly nutty flavor that resembles almonds and hazelnuts. Scallops’ delicious and unique flavors make them a perfect and tasty ingredient in seafood scampi. So, Scallops end up tender and sweet with exploding natural flavors in your mouth!
Types of Scallops
There are 3 different types of Scallops and they all differ in flavor and appearance:
Bay Scallops:
Bay Scallops are the sweetest type of Scallops. However, due to the migration patterns of bay scallops, they are available only between October till March. Bay scallops are very delicate, tender, small in size, easy, and quick to cook.
Calico Scallops:
Scallops are usually available between December to May, and they are found in the South Atlantic. The shells of calico scallops are extremely beautiful, intricate, and sealed, making it more difficult to access the meat inside.
Sea Scallops:
Sea Scallops are the most common types of Scallops, and they are available all year long. They are not sweet like bay scallops, but they are chewy and tender than them. In addition, they can be bigger in size; usually grow up to 2 inches in diameter.
Do Scallops Taste Similar To Lobster?
Yes! Scallops do taste mild and sweet in taste and succulent and tender in texture just like Lobster. However, scallops lack the fishy taste of lobsters, which makes them even more popular amongst their audiences.
How To Cook Scallops?
No doubt, Scallops taste perfect when they are prepared and cooked simply. The simple preparation enhances the sweet flavor of scallops. Strong seasoning mixes and marinades put a star on the overall taste profile of scallops.
Never overcook scallops as they become tough and chewy. Sea scallops and bay scallops are the most used and cooked scallops. You can season it with salt and pepper or any of your preferable seasoning mixes. But, keep in mind to cook them simply to enjoy the best of scallops.
Health Benefits of Scallops
Scallops are packed with numerous health and nutritional benefits. They are extremely rich in proteins and contain omega-3 fatty acids, which control cholesterol levels, reduce heart disease risks, control blood pressure, and improve blood circulation.
How Often Can You Eat Scallops?
You can eat scallops 2-3 times a week.