CHARCOAL-GRILLED SCALLOPS

CHARCOAL-GRILLED SCALLOPS image

Number Of Ingredients 3

1 1/2 pounds large sea scallops , tough tendons removed (see illustration below)
1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter , melted and cooled
Table salt and ground black pepper

Steps:

1. Light large chimney starter filled with hardwood charcoal (6 quarts) and allow to burn until all charcoal is covered with layer of fine gray ash, about 20 minutes. Build single-level fire by spreading coals evenly over bottom of grill. Set cooking grate in place, cover grill with lid, and let grate heat up, about 5 minutes. Use grill brush to scrape cooking grate clean. Grill is ready when coals are medium-hot. 2. Meanwhile, toss scallops and butter together in medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Thread scallops onto doubled skewers (see illustration 2, below) so that flat sides of scallops will directly touch cooking grate. 3. Lightly dip small wad of paper towels in vegetable oil; holding wad with tongs, wipe the cooking grate. Grill scallops, uncovered, turning skewers once until richly caramelized on each side and medium-rare (sides of scallops will be firm and all but middle third of each scallop will be opaque), 5 to 7 minutes. Serve hot or at room temperature with lemon wedges.