SEARED SCALLOPS WITH VANILLA CITRUS CONFIT

Seared Scallops with Vanilla Citrus Confit image

Provided by Aaron May

Time 20m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

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12 large fresh diver scallops
1 grapefruit
1 lemon
1 lime
1 orange
8 ounces Champagne
4 ounces orange or grapefruit juice
2 tablespoons agave nectar
1 vanilla bean
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon water
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt

Steps:

Remove the adductor muscle from the scallops, rinse with cold water and thoroughly pat dry. Place the scallops on a towel-lined-platter and bring to room temp.
Using a paring knife, remove the citrus segments from the grapefruit, lemon, lime and orange. Place in a bowl, reserving the remaining portion of the fruit for juicing. Juice the remainders of the citrus into a small saucepot and add the Champagne, orange juice and agave nectar. Using a paring knife, split the vanilla bean down the center and add it to the saucepot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Combine the cornstarch with the water in a small bowl. Add the cornstarch slurry to the pot and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temp. Pour the sauce over the citrus segments and reserve at room temp.
Add the butter and oil to a 12- to 14-inch saute pan over high heat. Carefully salt the scallops. Once the fat begins to bubble, gently add the scallops, making sure they are not touching each other. Sear the scallops until golden brown, about 2 minutes on each side. Place the scallops on a plate and carefully spoon the sauce and citrus segments over top.