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Grilled Polynesian Scallop Tapas with Vanilla-Coconut Glaze

A sophisticated Polynesian-inspired tapa featuring succulent grilled scallops infused with Tahitian vanilla and creamy coconut, balanced by a vibrant passion fruit reduction.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: En-cas, Tapas
Cuisine: Oceanic, Polynesian
Calories: 185

Ingredients
  

Scallops & Marinade
  • 12 pieces Sea Scallops Adductor muscle removed
  • 0.5 cup Coconut Milk Full fat
  • 1 unit Vanilla Bean Split and seeds scraped
  • 1 unit Lime Juice Freshly squeezed
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger Finely grated
Passion Fruit Reduction & Garnish
  • 3 units Passion Fruit Fresh pulp
  • 1 tsp Honey Manuka or wildflower
  • 1 tbsp Toasted Coconut Flakes For garnish
  • 1 pinch Fleur de Sel Sea salt
  • 0.25 cup Micro-cilantro For garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Outdoor Grill or Grill Pan High heat is essential for a proper sear.
  • 8 Bamboo Skewers Soak in water for 30 minutes prior to use.
  • 1 Small Saucepan For the passion fruit reduction.

Method
 

Preparation & Marinade
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, lime juice, grated ginger, and the seeds from the vanilla bean. Reserve the empty pod for the sauce.
  2. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Submerge them in the coconut marinade and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. Do not exceed 20 minutes as the lime will begin to 'cook' the seafood.
The Reduction
  1. While the scallops marinate, place the passion fruit pulp, honey, and the empty vanilla pod in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
  2. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until the liquid has reduced by half and becomes syrupy. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and the pod. Set aside.
Grilling
  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  2. Thread three scallops onto each soaked bamboo skewer. Season very lightly with a pinch of sea salt.
  3. Place the skewers on the grill. Sear for 2 minutes per side until charred grill marks appear but the center remains slightly translucent.
Plating
  1. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle the warm passion fruit reduction over the scallops.
  2. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes and micro-cilantro. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

For an authentic Polynesian touch, serve these on half-shells or over a small bed of taro purée.