Baked Scallops with Spicy Pollack Roe (Mentaiko) and Barbecued Black Tea Seasonings

Ingredients:

• 6g barbecued black tea seasonings
• 12 large sea scallops, shells cleaned and halved
• 1 cup spicy pollack roe (mentaiko), finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley leaves (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

Prepare the Scallops:

• Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season both sides of the scallops with the barbecued black tea seasonings, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Make the Mentaiko Topping:

• In a medium bowl, combine the chopped spicy pollack roe (mentaiko), minced garlic, grated ginger, softened butter, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and form a smooth paste. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Assemble the Scallops:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the scallop shells on a baking sheet. Place one scallop in each shell, rounded side up. Spoon a generous amount of the mentaiko mixture onto each scallop, spreading it evenly over the surface. If desired, sprinkle a small amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.

Bake the Scallops:

• Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through, and the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Serve:

• Remove the baked scallops from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for Success:

• Seasoning: The barbecued black tea seasonings add a unique, smoky flavor that complements the rich taste of the scallops and mentaiko. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.
• Mentaiko Quality: Use high-quality spicy pollack roe for the best flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use regular pollack roe or adjust the spiciness.
• Baking Time: Scallops cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to ensure they remain tender and juicy. Overcooking can make them tough.
• Garnish: Fresh parsley and lemon wedges add a refreshing touch, balancing the richness of the mentaiko topping.

Enjoy Your Baked Scallops with Spicy Pollack Roe!

• This dish combines the delicate texture of scallops with the bold, spicy flavor of mentaiko and the unique aroma of barbecued black tea seasonings. It’s a perfect choice for a sophisticated appetizer or a light main course, ideal for impressing guests at a special dinner or a romantic evening at home.