Perfect Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry Recipe for Seafood Lovers

If you’re a seafood lover looking to try something new, a fishcakes and scallops stir fry is an irresistible choice. This dish combines the tender texture of fishcakes and the sweet, delicate taste of scallops. It offers a burst of flavors. Everything is cooked to perfection in a savory stir-fry style. This recipe is quick and easy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. You can impress your guests with minimal effort.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to create this tasty dish. We will share essential tips for the perfect stir fry. We will also give you ideas for variations and ingredient swaps to suit your tastes.

The Best Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry Recipe

Creating the perfect fishcakes and scallops stir fry is about balancing the textures, flavors, and ingredients. This dish is easy to prepare, whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a group. It is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s break it down step by step to ensure your stir fry turns out flavorful and delicious every time.

Key Ingredients for a Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry

The key to making a delicious fishcakes and scallops stir fry lies in choosing the right ingredients. Freshness matters, and here are the core components that will elevate your dish:

Fishcakes:

You can either make homemade fishcakes or use store-bought options. Homemade fishcakes made with fresh white fish like cod, haddock, or salmon are usually the best choice. These fish are not only flavorful but also have the right texture to hold up well in stir-fries. Homemade fishcakes are also easy to make by combining cooked fish with mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Once formed into patties, they can be pan-fried until golden and crispy.

• Store-bought fishcakes are a convenient option. Always check the ingredients for additives. These might affect the flavor or texture of the stir fry.

Scallops:

Scallops are the star of this dish with their delicate, sweet, and slightly buttery flavor. For the best results, choose fresh scallops that are firm to the touch and translucent in appearance. If using frozen scallops, make sure to thaw them fully before cooking. Scallops cook quickly and must be seared at high heat to avoid becoming rubbery. This ensures a crisp, golden exterior and a tender inside.

Vegetables:

A good stir fry has a vibrant mix of vegetables. Opt for crunchy vegetables that cook quickly, such as bell peppers, carrots, snow peas, bok choy, and onions. The natural sweetness of bell peppers complements the richness of the seafood. Carrots and snow peas add texture and color.

• Bok choy is a classic stir-fry vegetable due to its mild flavor and satisfying crunch. It also absorbs the stir-fry sauce beautifully.

Seasonings:

The sauce you create for your stir fry brings everything together. Start with soy sauce, which provides a salty umami flavor. Add a splash of sesame oil for depth and richness, and a hint of rice vinegar for acidity and balance.

• Fresh ginger and garlic should be sautéed at the beginning to release their aromatic flavors. Add chili flakes for a touch of spice if desired, or use chili garlic sauce for an extra kick.
• Consider fish sauce or a splash of teriyaki sauce for more complex flavors. For those avoiding gluten, coconut aminos can be a great soy sauce alternative.

Cooking Oil:

• When stir-frying, it’s important to use an oil with a high smoke point. Vegetable oil or peanut oil is ideal because they can withstand high heat without burning. Sesame oil is used for flavoring but should be added toward the end of cooking to preserve its delicate aroma.

How to Prepare Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry

1. Prepare the Fishcakes:
   • If using store-bought fishcakes, follow the instructions on the packaging. However, if you’re using homemade fishcakes, begin by pan-frying them in a hot pan with a small amount of oil. Cook the fishcakes for 4-5 minutes on each side. Ensure they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
   • Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set them aside. Slice the fishcakes into bite-sized pieces to make them easy to incorporate into the stir fry later.
2. Prepare the Scallops:
   • Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear on the scallops.
   • Season the scallops with salt and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.
   • Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a little oil and wait until the pan is hot before placing the scallops in the pan.
   • Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown on the outside. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • While the seafood is cooking, chop your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
   • Heat the wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Begin by sautéing the garlic and ginger until fragrant, which usually takes about 30 seconds.
   • Add the vegetables in stages. Begin with the harder vegetables like carrots and bell peppers. Then, add the more delicate vegetables like bok choy and snow peas.
   • Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-5 minutes until they’re slightly tender but still crisp.

Stir Fry Assembly

1. Combine the Seafood and Vegetables:
   • Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, return the fishcakes and scallops to the wok. Add a splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce to coat the ingredients in the sauce. Stir everything together gently to avoid breaking up the fishcakes.
2. Toss Everything Together:
   • Drizzle a little sesame oil for extra flavor and stir everything to ensure the sauce evenly coats the seafood and vegetables.
   • Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you like a bit of heat, you can sprinkle in some chili flakes at this point.
3. Serve Immediately:
   • Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, your fishcakes and scallops stir fry is ready to serve! You can serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or just enjoy it as it is for a low-carb option.

Tips for the Perfect Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry

Making a successful fishcakes and scallops stir fry goes beyond simply following the recipe. Here are some extra tips and techniques to ensure your dish is restaurant-quality:

Choosing the Right Seafood

When making a stir fry, the freshness of your seafood is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

• Fresh Scallops: Always look for scallops that are firm, translucent, and slightly wet to the touch (but not slimy). Fresh scallops will cook quickly and evenly, giving your stir fry a delicate, sweet flavor. Avoid scallops that have been sitting in the fridge for too long or those with an off smell.
• Choosing Fish for Fishcakes: When making homemade fishcakes, the type of fish you choose can dramatically impact the flavor. Opt for a fish with a firm, flaky texture that holds up well when cooked. Cod, haddock, or salmon are excellent options. If you want a stronger flavor, consider using mackerel or sardines, but these have a more intense taste and can overpower the dish if not balanced carefully with other ingredients.
• Frozen vs. Fresh: While fresh is always best, frozen scallops are often a more accessible option, especially in areas where fresh seafood isn’t readily available. If you go the frozen route, just make sure to thaw the scallops in the fridge overnight or under cold running water to preserve their texture.

Stir Frying at High Heat

Stir frying is all about high heat and fast cooking. This technique ensures that the ingredients stay crisp. The sauce remains instead of being absorbed too much. This leaves you with a deliciously saucy dish.

• Use the Right Pan: A wok is ideal for stir frying due to its high sides and ability to distribute heat evenly. However, if you don’t have a wok, a large skillet will work too. The goal is to have enough space for the ingredients to move around freely without overcrowding the pan.
• Preheat Your Pan: Always make sure your pan is hot before adding oil. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the seafood and vegetables will stew instead of stir frying, resulting in a soggy dish. Preheat for at least 3 minutes on medium-high heat before cooking.
• Add Ingredients in Stages: If you’re stir-frying multiple ingredients, like fishcakes, scallops, and vegetables, add them step by step. It’s important to consider their cooking time. Start with the seafood. Then, add the veggies towards the end to ensure nothing gets overcooked.

Adding More Flavor Variations

To keep your fishcakes and scallops stir fry exciting and ever-changing, try experimenting with different ingredients or flavor profiles:

• Sauces: You can customize your stir fry by using different sauces. Try swapping soy sauce for tamari (a gluten-free alternative) or add a bit of hoisin sauce for a sweeter twist. A splash of lime juice can bring in a zesty flavor, or you can try adding fish sauce for more depth.
• Spices and Heat: Spice things up with a dash of cayenne pepper or Sriracha for heat. If you prefer a milder version, opt for sweet chili sauce to add flavor without too much spice.

Why You Should Try Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry

This fishcakes and scallops stir fry is not just about flavor—it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s why it’s a great choice for a healthy meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Fishcakes and Scallops

Both fishcakes and scallops are high in lean protein and low in fat, making them a great option for anyone looking for a nutritious yet satisfying dish. Scallops are particularly high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.

Low-Calorie and High in Protein

If you’re looking for a low-calorie meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste, this stir fry is the perfect choice. With a combination of vegetables and seafood, it provides a good source of lean protein and fiber while keeping calories in check.

Versatile for Dietary Preferences

This dish is easily adaptable to various dietary needs. You’re gluten-free or dairy-free. Or perhaps you’re simply following a healthy eating plan. You can adjust the recipe to suit your needs. This is done without compromising flavor.

How to Customize Your Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry

One of the great things about stir fry is that it’s easily customizable. Here are a few ideas on how you can change the recipe to match your personal taste.

Adding More Veggies

If you’re looking to boost your veggie intake, you can add:

• Mushrooms, which absorb the stir-fry sauce and add an earthy flavor.
• Zucchini or spinach for extra greens.

Substituting the Seafood

While fishcakes and scallops are the stars of this recipe, you can easily swap them out for other seafood such as shrimp, squid, or even a mix of shellfish.

Experimenting with Sauces and Spices

• Teriyaki sauce will give your stir fry a sweet and savory touch.
• Chili paste can make the dish spicier if you love bold flavors.
• Lemongrass or curry powder can add a more exotic twist to the dish.

The Best Side Dishes to Serve with Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry

If you’re planning to serve this fishcakes and scallops stir fry for a meal, here are some great side dish ideas to complete your spread.

Steamed Rice or Noodles

Serve your stir fry with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles to absorb all the delicious sauce.

Fresh Salad

A fresh Asian-style salad with cucumber, carrots, and sesame dressing can complement the rich flavors of the stir fry.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables such as sweet potatoes or broccoli are a hearty side dish to serve alongside the stir fry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry

Can I use frozen scallops for this stir fry?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture when cooking.

How do I make fishcakes from scratch?

To make fishcakes, you can blend cooked fish (like cod or salmon) with mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, herbs, and seasonings. Form them into patties and pan-fry until golden brown.

Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

If you’re avoiding soy sauce, you can substitute it with coconut aminos, which is a gluten-free and soy-free alternative that works well in stir-fry dishes.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftover fishcakes and scallops stir fry can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

Conclusion

The fishcakes and scallops stir fry recipe is an incredible way to enjoy seafood in a healthy and flavorful dish. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless possibilities for customization, it’s a perfect choice for seafood lovers. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner, this stir fry will surely be a hit.