Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner table into a gourmet paradise! These Smoked Bacon Wrapped Scallops are not just a dish, they're an experience that combines the luxurious tenderness of perfectly cooked scallops with the irresistible smoky crunch of crispy bacon. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and tantalize your taste buds like never before.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 large scallops
- 12 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Pat the scallops dry completely using paper towels to ensure proper bacon adherence and crispy texture.
- Season scallops evenly with black pepper and garlic powder, gently pressing the seasonings into the surface of each scallop.
- Cut bacon slices in half lengthwise to create thinner strips that will wrap around the scallops more efficiently.
- Carefully wrap each scallop with a halved bacon slice, ensuring the bacon is snug but not overly tight. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed.
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C), using hickory or applewood chips for a rich, complementary flavor.
- Lightly brush the wrapped scallops with olive oil to promote even browning and prevent sticking.
- Place bacon-wrapped scallops on the smoker grates, ensuring they are not touching each other for proper smoke circulation.
- Smoke the scallops for approximately 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the scallops are opaque and firm.
- Remove from smoker and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve immediately, optionally garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or a light lemon wedge.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always pat scallops completely dry before cooking to ensure a perfect sear and crispy bacon wrap.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Select large, fresh scallops and high-quality bacon for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give each scallop space on the smoker to allow proper smoke circulation and even cooking.
- Wood Chip Selection: Hickory or applewood chips provide the best complementary smoky flavor for seafood.
- Toothpick Trick: Use toothpicks to secure bacon if it doesn't stay in place, but remember to remove them before serving.
- Temperature Matters: Maintain a consistent smoker temperature of 225°F for perfectly cooked scallops.
- Rest Time: Allow the scallops to rest for 2-3 minutes after smoking to redistribute juices and enhance flavor.Pro tip: Serve with a light lemon wedge or fresh herbs to add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, smoky flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg
