When made right, scallops end up sweet and tender and end up exploding with natural flavor in your mouth.
As far as seafood goes, there’s nothing quite like scallops. They’re shellfish that are well-regarded for their amazing texture and taste, though they have to be prepared properly to truly bring out their potential. When made right, scallops end up sweet and tender and end up exploding with natural flavor in your mouth. There are variations of scallops, too, but one thing is for certain: whenever scallops are incorporated into a dish, you’re in for a meal that’s going to stand out and make a lasting impression!
What Exactly Are Scallops?
A scallop is a bivalve mollusk that is part of the Pectinidae family. If you’ve ever had oysters, clams, or mussels, you’ve had something pretty similar already, as they’re all related to one another. There are also big varieties available, though you’re most likely to see the tiny bay scallop here in Baltimore or the big sea scallop elsewhere. Either way, you’ll know them because of their light pink or beige colors as well as their soft, delectable texture.
How Are They Prepared?
The preparation of a scallop is critical because they’re easy to overcook and, once that happens, they become rubbery and unappetizing. They cook rather quickly, meaning you can whip them up at home once you get comfortable cooking them. You’re most likely to see them tossed into a frying pan on a stovetop once the side muscles are removed. Patting them dry and added a little bit of salt and pepper is really all you need to bring their flavors out. Cooked in warmed olive oil or butter, it usually only takes 2 minutes per side to have your scallops ready for eating. You could also consider deep-frying them for a crispy texture, grilling, or even broiling.
What Do They Taste Like?
The scallop is defined by its delicious, sweet flavor. Raw scallops should smell like the water—an indicator that they’re fresh and ready to be eaten. Even once cooked, they’ll retain some of their brininess. Scallops are also rather rich so they’re usually enjoyed in smaller portions. Enjoy a delicious scallop that will melt in your mouth in a burst of flavor!
YOUR SEAFOOD DESTINATION
Costas Inn has been a Baltimore tradition since 1971. You may recognize our restaurant, which was recently featured on the Food Network with Michael Symon on Burgers, Brew, and ‘Que! We were also voted the2015 #1 Baltimore Seafood Restaurant by USA Today, as well as #1 Crab Restaurant 2014 in the Baltimore Business Journal. You may have also spotted Costas Inn during one of our 9 appearances on the Today Show or heard one of our many interviews on WJZ TV Channel 13 with Ron Matz and Marty Bass.
You can enjoy our famous crab cakes in-house or order them online for any time eating. We also provide some of the best seafood catering in the Baltimore area! You can also get your fill from Costas even when you’re not in our dining room: follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube!