I am a huge fan of seafood, and so are my kids. They do not just taste good; but they are also rich in nutrition. Scallops are among my favorite seafood items. However, they are still uncommon among many households. They are not as popular of a choice as crabs and shrimps. So, a lot of parents are wondering if their kids will love scallops. In the first place even, what do scallops taste like?
Before we find out, let us first get to know this seafood item a little bit more!
Table of Contents
WHAT ARE SCALLOPS?
Scallops are probably among the healthiest seafood items in the world. It is quite unfortunate that there are a lot of people who have no idea about them. So, what are they?
Basically, scallops are mollusks with a soft texture. Their shells have ruffled edges, making them stand out not just in the sea but also in our dining tables.
TYPES OF SCALLOPS
There are different types of scallops. The three most common types are found in North America; and these include the following:
1. BAY SCALLOPS
These are the smallest type of scallops. They are available between October and March; and they migrate during the months of April until September.
To give you a hint on what do scallops taste like, bay scallops are the sweetest kind.
2. CALICO SCALLOPS
Calico scallops have perfectly sealed shells. Also, these bear a milder flavor than other types of scallops. These are found during the months of December until May.
3. SEA SCALLOPS
Sea scallops are quite large, with a diameter of about two inches. Since these are available year-round, they are also the most popular type of scallops.
Aside from these three, there are also some less popular types of scallops. Most of these are imported from other parts of the world. These include the following:
- Icelandic scallops, which come from Iceland and other parts of Europe;
- Japanese scallops, which come from Japan; and
- Queen scallops, which come from Europe
NUTRITIONAL VALUE
It is pretty useless to answer the question, “what do scallops taste like?” if we do not know if it is even worth it or not. This is where their nutritional value comes into play.
What I love the most about scallops is the fact that they are rich in essential nutrients. Each serving has high levels of vitamin B12, which improves one’s cardiovascular (CV) health in general. Moreover, it has significant amount of the following vitamins and minerals:
- Iodine;
- Phosphorus;
- Protein;
- Selenium;
- Chlorine; and
- Zinc
There are also traces of Omega-3, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B. More importantly, there is no trace of saturated fat.
It is also worth noting that each serving has low calorie levels. You would not worry about gaining weight or compromising your overall physical health with this nutritious choice.
Having these essential nutrients in your kids’ daily meals is important. It supports proper growth and development, especially in their youth.
HOW TO PREPARE SCALLOPS
Scallops are prepared in various ways. In fact, their versatility and suitability for just about anything is another thing I love about them.
How To Cook A Scallop Appetizer
They can be baked, boiled, grilled, sautéed, among others. However, my kids’ all-time favorite are the stir-fried scallops. Point being, you can cook scallops in any way you desire. Definitely, you can experiment on them.
The only thing you need to remember is that scallops are quickly overcooked. When this happens, they become chewy and rubbery, making it hard to bite on them. So, you have to be extremely attentive when cooking scallops. Always check on them and do not leave them for too long while cooking.
HOW TO SPOT FRESH SCALLOPS
Given the nature of scallops, it is vital that you know how to shop for fresh ones. So, how do you know whether scallops are fresh or not?
First, they should look plump. They should have a creamy and shiny white color; not bright and matte. It is even better if they have an orange or pink tint, which is an indication of high nutritional value.
If you are still not sure after checking for these qualities, it is best that you opt for dry packs instead.
The problem with scallops is that they are more perishable than other mollusks. When caught, they open their shells, exposing their sensitive muscles to bacteria. With their adductor muscles being the only edible parts, it is risky.
For this reason, corporate or large-scale fishermen kill scallops immediately after they had been caught. This allows them to freeze the seafood items right away, preserving their freshness.
There are also day boat scallops, which reach the shores quickly. There is no need to freeze them; they can be served as fresh as they come. Of course, they are more expensive and only available for establishments or households near the shorelines.
WHAT DO SCALLOPS TASTE LIKE?
So, let us get to the bottom of this… what do scallops taste like?
As I have mentioned earlier, they are sweet. At the same time, scallops have a buttery taste that gives off a very delicate flavor. They taste like crabs and lobsters, but boast with a firmer texture that is truly pleasing.
This is why it does not matter how you prepare or cook scallops; because they work well with any ingredient and/or flavor.
TO WRAP IT UP…
Scallops are not just delicious seafood items but are also nutritious. They contain a lot of essential nutrients that are significant for our kids’ growth.
You will really love them because they can be cooked and served in every way you can possibly imagine. Just make sure that you do not overcook them; and you will definitely get the most out of them.
If you are still not satisfied with my answer to the question, “what do scallops taste like”, it is high time that you see it for yourself!
Let me know how it goes once you try them, and how much your kids will love them. It would also be great if you can share your recipes with us! Feel free to leave your comments below.
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