Noix De Saint Jacques Flambees Au Cognac Recipe

Alright, let me take you on a culinary adventure that’s about to transform your dining experience into a charming escapade of flavors crowned by the elegance of sizzling Cognac: I recently whipped up this exquisite dish featuring perfectly seared sea scallops, swimming in a rich, creamy sauce that’s dramatically set alight with a splash of Cognac, and I’ve been craving it again ever since the last delectable bite! 🥂✨

I love the sophistication of Noix De Saint Jacques Flambées au Cognac. The sea scallops that star in the dish are set off beautifully by a delicate balance of both sweet and savory notes.

The richness of the dish comes mainly from the olive oil and unsalted butter, while the Cognac really brings home the depth of flavor. Finished with a sprinkle of parsley, it’s a dish that’s hard to top.

Low in carbs, high in protein, it’s a contender for my favorite meal.

Noix De Saint Jacques Flambees Au Cognac Recipe Ingredients

• Sea Scallops: Rich in lean protein, these gems of the sea are low in fat and provide essential amino acids.

  They offer a slightly sweet briny flavor that pairs beautifully with rich sauces.

• Olive Oil: Known for heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, this Mediterranean staple enhances flavors with a subtle fruitiness.
• Shallot: Offering a mild, sweet onion flavor, shallots add depth and a slight sweetness to dishes.
• Cognac: This elegant spirit adds warmth and complexity, with notes of vanilla and spice, perfect for flambéing.
• Lemon Juice: Bright and zesty, it cuts through richness, adding freshness and balancing flavors.

Noix De Saint Jacques Flambees Au Cognac Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 12 fresh sea scallops (Noix de Saint Jacques)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup Cognac
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

How to Make this Noix De Saint Jacques Flambees Au Cognac Recipe

1. Dry the scallops with a paper towel. Season both sides of the scallops with salt and black pepper.

2. In a sizable skillet, combine the olive oil and half of the butter; heat them over medium-high until they are hot.

3. Place the scallops in a single layer in the skillet and sear for around 1-2 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden brown color. Take the scallops out of the skillet and set them aside.

4. Lower the heat and medium butter. Add the to skillet remaining butter.

5. Add the garlic and shallot, and cook until the shallot is see-through, about 2-3 minutes.

6. Add the Cognac to the skillet with care and set it ablaze using a long lighter or match. Allow the fire to go out on its own.

7. Combine the heavy cream and lemon juice, and scrape up any brown bits on the bottom of the skillet.

8. Put the scallops back into the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are warmed through and the sauce is a little thicker.

9. Alter the flavor with salt and black pepper. Adjust them to your taste.

10. Top with minced fresh parsley prior to serving. Enjoy your Noix de Saint Jacques Flambées au Cognac!

Noix De Saint Jacques Flambees Au Cognac Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Paper towels
2. Skillet
3. Stove
4. Measuring spoons
5. Measuring cup
6. Knife
7. Cutting board
8. Tongs
9. Long lighter or match
10. Spatula
11. Small bowl
12. Spoon or whisk (for combining ingredients)

FAQ

• Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?You can indeed use frozen scallops, but make sure they are completely thawed and fully drained before cooking them. Otherwise, the texture and flavor won’t be what you want. Be aware that this next part is crucial!
• What can I substitute for Cognac?In the case that Cognac is not on hand, a quality brandy or even a dry white wine can serve as a substitute.
• How do I flambé safely?Use a long lighter to light the pan and keep a lid nearby to put out any flames that might get out of hand. Remove the pan from the heat before adding the Cognac. You don’t want an “accidental flare-up” when you need to control the fire.
• Is it necessary to use heavy cream?The dish is made rich with heavy cream. If you’re watching your calories, use light cream, or leave the cream out altogether. Just know that the sauce will get a lot less creamy without the heavy cream.
• How long should I cook the scallops?Cook the scallops for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, using a medium-high heat setting, until they have achieved a golden-brown color and are opaque in the center. These delectable mollusks are sure to impress the palate!
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?The sauce is at its best when served fresh, but you can make it in advance. If you do, reheat it gently and combine it with scallops that you’ve just seared before you plate up and serve.
• What sides pair well with this dish?A simple green salad or a side of sautéed vegetables complements the richness of the scallops beautifully.

Noix De Saint Jacques Flambees Au Cognac Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Large prawns or large sea shrimp may be used as substitutes for sea scallops. Adjust cooking time as necessary.
Olive oil: For a similar cooking effect, use either grapeseed oil or avocado oil.
Cognac: Substitute with brandy or, for an alcohol-free version, use apple juice with a few drops of vanilla extract.
Cream: Substitute with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free version.
Lemon juice: For a similarly acidic effect, try using lime juice or white wine vinegar.

Pro Tips

1. Patience with Searing: Ensure the skillet and oil-butter mixture are very hot before adding the scallops. This helps achieve a perfect golden crust without overcooking them. Be patient and avoid moving the scallops around while they are searing.