🐚 Scallops in Garlic Sauce – A Savory Chinese Seafood Delight

Scallops in Garlic Sauce is a delicious Chinese seafood dish that combines tender, sweet scallops with a fragrant, savory garlic sauce. Quick to prepare yet full of flavor, this dish is perfect as a main course for dinner or as part of a Chinese banquet.

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📝 Ingredients

For the Scallops:

300–400 g fresh scallops (cleaned, patted dry)

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp white pepper

1 tsp cornstarch

For the Garlic Sauce:

2–3 cloves garlic (minced)

1 tsp ginger (minced)

2 tbsp vegetable oil

1 tbsp light soy sauce

1 tsp oyster sauce

½ tsp sugar

2 tbsp chicken or vegetable stock

1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (slurry for thickening)

Garnish:

2 spring onions (sliced)

Optional: 1 small red chili (sliced)

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🍳 How to Make Scallops in Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

Pat scallops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Lightly season with salt and white pepper.

Dust scallops with cornstarch to help create a light sear.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

Heat 1–2 tbsp oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat.

Add scallops and sear for 1–2 minutes on each side until golden and just cooked through.

Remove scallops and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce

In the same wok, add garlic and ginger. Stir-fry until fragrant.

Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and stock. Stir to combine.

Add cornstarch slurry and cook for 1 minute until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return scallops to the wok and gently toss to coat in the sauce.

Add spring onions and optional red chili for garnish.

Stir lightly and remove from heat.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor.

Works beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve as a main seafood dish for lunch or dinner.

Pair with lightly stir-fried vegetables or a clear soup.

Great for family meals or special occasions.

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💡 Pro Tips

Use fresh scallops for the best sweetness and tender texture.

Avoid overcooking scallops — they cook quickly and can become rubbery.

Stir-fry garlic on medium heat to avoid burning and bitterness.

Cornstarch slurry helps achieve a silky, glossy sauce.

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✨ Scallops in Garlic Sauce is an elegant, quick, and flavorful dish showcasing the natural sweetness of scallops enhanced by aromatic garlic and a savory sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special Chinese seafood feast.