Why You’ll Love This Classic Coquilles St. Jacques
- Simple Yet Luxurious: Surprisingly easy to prepare for such a show-stopping dish.
- Sophisticated Flavor: Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly balanced with tender scallops.
- Elegant Presentation: Served in scallop shells or ramekins for a stunning display.
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Skillet
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Scallop shells or ramekins
Classic Coquilles St. Jacques
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Description
There’s nothing quite as elegant as Classic Coquilles St. Jacques—a rich, creamy scallop dish that’s a French classic. Perfect as an appetizer or a luxurious main course, this dish features tender scallops bathed in a velvety wine sauce, topped with breadcrumbs and cheese, and baked to golden perfection. It’s the ultimate way to impress your guests or treat yourself to a gourmet experience.
Ingredients
For the Scallops:
- 1 lb (450g) scallops (rinsed and patted dry)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth
- ½ cup (120ml) white grape juice
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (180ml) heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup (25g) breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Scallops
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Sear them for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Broth
- In the same skillet, sauté the shallot and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the chicken broth, white grape juice, and lemon juice. Simmer for 3-5 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Return the scallops to the skillet and simmer gently for another minute. Remove the scallops and reserve the liquid.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the reserved liquid, followed by the heavy cream. Stir until thickened.
- Add Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Divide the scallops evenly among scallop shells or ramekins. Pour the sauce over the scallops.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture over the top.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
- Place the shells or ramekins on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the topping is golden and bubbling.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread or a side of greens.
Notes
- Fresh Scallops: Use fresh or thawed scallops for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Scallops cook quickly, so avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use bay scallops instead of sea scallops?
A: Yes, bay scallops work well. Reduce the cooking time as they are smaller and cook faster.
Q2: What can I use if I don’t have scallop shells?
A: Small ramekins or oven-safe bowls make great substitutes.
Q3: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use a plant-based cream and dairy-free butter for the sauce and topping.
Conclusion: A Classic Worth Mastering
Classic Coquilles St. Jacques is the epitome of French elegance, combining tender scallops with a creamy, cheesy sauce and a crunchy topping. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a special night at home, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Did you try this recipe? Share your experience and photos with us on social media using #ClassicCoquilles.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 23g
Bring a touch of France to your table tonight with this timeless recipe!
