Scallop Stir-Fry With Shiitake Mushrooms and Bok Choy

Ingredients

• 2 lbs scallops – Adds a delicate, sweet flavor and tender texture to the dish.
• 3 cups chopped bok choy – Provides a fresh crunch and subtle bitterness that complements the scallops.
• 1 carrot, shredded – Adds natural sweetness and a vibrant color to the stir-fry.
• 8 oz shiitake mushrooms, chopped – Known for their rich, earthy taste that enhances the depth of flavor in the dish.
• 1 onion, chopped – Adds a savory base to the stir-fry, making it more flavorful.
• 1 piece of ginger (1-inch), grated – Brings a warming spice and aromatic note that balances the seafood flavor.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – Enhances the dish with a robust, savory taste.
• 1 tbsp oil – Used to stir-fry the ingredients, bringing everything together.
• 1 tsp salt – Helps to enhance and bring out the natural flavors of each ingredient.
• 1/8 tsp pepper – Adds a hint of mild heat and depth to round out the seasoning.

For a printable card of the ingredients, check out the recipe card at the end of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Scallop Stir-Fry With Shiitake Mushrooms and Bok Choy

• Large Frying Pan – Provides ample space for all ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Ensures accurate measurements for the ingredients, especially seasonings.
• Cutting Board – A safe, sturdy surface for chopping vegetables and prepping scallops.
• Sharp Knife – Essential for slicing the bok choy, carrot, onion, and mushrooms cleanly.
• Grater – Makes it easy to grate fresh ginger for added flavor.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon – For stirring and combining ingredients while cooking.

Instructions How To Make Scallop Stir Fry

1. Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and shiitake mushrooms and cook stirring periodically, for 5 minutes.
3. Add scallops, bok choy, carrot ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper/ stir until combined.
4. Cook, stirring periodically, for 7 minutes, or until scallops are opaque white (no longer translucent).

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this scallop stir-fry over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a complete, satisfying meal.
• For a low-carb option, pair it with cauliflower rice or a simple side salad like cucumber chickpea to keep it light and fresh.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color.
• Add a drizzle of soy sauce or a side of sriracha chili sauce for a bit of heat.
• This dish also pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot lemon tea or iced green tea

Tips For Success

• Choose Fresh Scallops: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh or high-quality frozen scallops. Be sure to pat them dry before cooking to remove excess moisture; this helps them sear rather than steam in the pan, enhancing their flavor.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: When stir-frying, make sure not to overcrowd the pan as this can make ingredients steam instead of stir-fry. If necessary, cook in batches to ensure all ingredients get a nice sear and stay crisp.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Smaller Scallops: If you’re using smaller bay scallops, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking them. Overcooked scallops can become chewy, so keep an eye on them.
• Customize with Extra Vegetables: This recipe is flexible and works well with additional quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn. Just be sure to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Add Aromatics Carefully: To avoid burning the garlic and ginger, add them later in the cooking process, as the recipe suggests. This will keep their flavor fresh and balanced in the dish without becoming bitter.
• Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to add a splash of soy sauce or fish sauce for extra umami if desired, but be mindful of salt levels. These additions can bring an extra depth to the flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Switch Up the Protein: If scallops aren’t available, you can substitute with shrimp, firm tofu, or even thinly sliced chicken breast. Each option brings a unique texture and flavor while keeping the dish delicious and satisfying.
• Use Different Mushrooms: Shiitake mushrooms add a rich, earthy taste, but you can replace them with button mushrooms, cremini, or even oyster mushrooms. Each mushroom variety has a slightly different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand.
• Add a Sauce: For a saucier stir-fry, try adding a quick sauce mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of sesame oil. This can deepen the flavor and create a more savory, saucy consistency that’s perfect for serving over rice.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add thinly sliced chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the onions and mushrooms. Adjust the spice level to your liking, or serve with chili sauce on the side for those who want extra kick.
• Make it Gluten-Free: To ensure this recipe is gluten-free, check that any added sauces (like soy sauce) are certified gluten-free. Tamari is a great gluten-free substitute that offers similar flavor to soy sauce.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or swap in other vegetables, like bell peppers, baby corn, or broccoli florets. These options add extra texture and color, making the stir-fry even more vibrant and nutritious.

Storage and Reheating

• Storing Leftovers: Place any leftover stir-fry in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, but for the best texture and flavor, enjoy it as soon as possible.
• Freezing: While freezing is not ideal for this dish due to the delicate texture of the scallops and bok choy, you can freeze it if necessary. Place the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to 1 month. Be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating on the Stovetop: For the best results, reheat the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method helps retain the texture of the scallops and vegetables.
• Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave the stir-fry. Place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until fully heated.
• Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be cautious not to overcook the scallops, as they can become rubbery. Heat just until warmed through.