Scallops in Saffron Sauce

Genevieve #2's Note:

These are the most delicious scallops I have ever had. Perfect for a special occasion as an appetizer. I found the fish stock hard to find so I substituted vegetable stock and it was just as good. Also, I would imagine you could substitute the scallops for prawns.

• Total Time: 30 mins
• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 8

• 2⁄3; cup dry white wine
• 2⁄3; cup fish stock
• 1 pinch saffron
• 2 lbs shelled scallops , lge
• salt and pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion , finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves , finely chopped
• 2⁄3; cup heavy cream
• lemon juice , squeeze
• chopped flat leaf parsley (to garnish)
• crusty bread , to serve

Directions:

1. Put wine, fish stock and saffron in a pan and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover and simmer gently for 15 minutes.
2. Season the scallops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large heavy bottom skillet. Add onion and garlic and cook for five minutes or until soft. Add the scallops and cook gently for five minutes stirring occasionally, or until they turn just opaque. Be careful not to overcook.
4. Using a slotted spoon, remove the scallops from the skillet and transfer to a warmed plate. Add the saffron liquid to the skillet, bring to a boil, and boil rapidly until reduced to about half. Lower the heat and gradually stir in the cream, just a little at a time. Let simmer gently until the sauce thickens.
5. Return the scallops to the skillet and let simmer for 1-2 minutes just to heat them through. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and season to taste with salt and pepper. serve the scallops hot, garnished with parsley, and accompanied by chunks or slices of crusty bread for mopping up the saffron sauce.

Reviews

[Chef #875528]

Too much onion, sauce wasn't that great. Very disappointed.

[Phil the travel guy]

Sensational! What saffron contributes to this is worth every dollar!

[Chef #369415]

I practiced this recipe once and then used it for a dinner party as an appetizer..one large scallop per person. Everyone raved over the recipe. I just wish I had put bread out for the sauce. It is really unbelievably good! Some guests used it on top on the main course tenderloin and it was delicious. I found the fish stock at Whole Foods.