Follow these steps for perfect results
Butter
Divided
Pancetta
Diced
Shallot
Diced
Brandy
Chestnuts
Roasted And Peeled
Chicken Stock
Sage Leaves
Bay Scallops
Large
Sea Salt
To Taste
Black Pepper
To Taste
Dried Polenta
Fresh Rosemary
Minced
Fresh Sage
Minced
Sea Salt
To Taste
Preheat the oven to 375F.
Prepare the polenta according to package instructions, adding minced rosemary and sage.
Spread the cooked polenta thinly on a greased cookie sheet.
Season with sea salt and bake for 45-55 minutes until crispy. Set aside.
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add diced pancetta and toast for 4-5 minutes.
Add diced shallots and cook until softened, seasoning with sea salt.
Deglaze with brandy and cook for 5 minutes.
Add roasted chestnuts and chicken stock and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
Puree the sauce using an immersion blender. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper; keep warm.
Melt remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a separate skillet over medium-high heat.
Add sage leaves and toast until crispy (about 2 minutes). Set aside.
Season scallops with salt and pepper.
Sear scallops in the same skillet over high heat for 1 minute per side to brown.
Reduce heat to medium and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until cooked through.
Serve the chestnut sauce in a bowl, topped with polenta crackers, seared scallops, and crispy sage leaves.
Expert advice for the best results
Ensure scallops are patted dry before searing for optimal browning.
Do not overcrowd the skillet when searing scallops.
Everything you need to know before you start
20 minutes
The chestnut brandy sauce can be made a day in advance.
Arrange the scallops attractively over the sauce and garnish with the crispy sage leaves and crumbled polenta cracker.
Serve as an appetizer for a dinner party.
Serve as a light lunch with a side salad.
The acidity of the wine will cut through the richness of the sauce.
Discover the story behind this recipe
Celebratory dishes often involve seafood and rich sauces.