10/03/2018
Seared Scallops
1/2 lb dry sea scallops
salt
pepper
1 tbsp grapeseed oil (or other high smoke point oil)
2 tbsp butter
•Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium high heat.
(In the meantime, pat the scallops very dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle the sea scallops with salt and pepper, to season.)
•When the pan is hot, add the grapeseed oil, then drop in your scallops, giving them enough room in between so they don’t steam each other. The scallops should make a sizzling noise when you put them in the pan.
•Cook the scallops for 2 minutes, making sure not to move them or touch them at all.
•Flip the scallops over with a pair of tongs, and add the butter to the pan.
•Let the scallops cook for 1 more minute, basting the scallops with the butter.
•Remove the scallops from the pan
Saffron Polenta
4c Water
2tsp Salt
1c Polenta
1/2c heavy cream
Pinch Saffron
3 Tbsp Butter (divided)
1/2c freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus more for garnish
•Bring water and salt to a boil in a large saucepan;
•Pour polenta slowly into boiling water, whisking constantly until all polenta is stirred in and there are no lumps.
•Reduce heat to low and simmer, whisking often, until polenta starts to thicken, about 5 minutes. Polenta mixture should still be slightly loose.
•Cover and cook for 30 minutes, whisking every 5 to 6 minutes. When polenta is too thick to whisk, stir with a wooden spoon.
•Add heavy cream and stir
•Polenta is done when texture is creamy and the individual grains are tender.
•Turn off heat and gently stir 2 tablespoons butter into polenta until butter partially melts; mix 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese into polenta until cheese has melted.
•Cover and let stand 5 minutes to thicken; stir and taste for salt before transferring to a serving dish.
*•Top polenta with remaining 1 tablespoon butter and about 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for garnish.