If you’ve ever been to a fancy cocktail party or upscale restaurant chances are you’ve come across those delicious bite-sized appetizers featuring plump scallops enveloped in crispy bacon. But what are these tantalizing morsels actually called? As it turns out, bacon-wrapped scallops go by several common names.
In this article, we’ll uncover the various titles for this popular dish and look at its origins. Read on to solve the mystery of what to call those scallops in bacon!
The Multiple Monikers of Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
While this dish is very recognizable there’s no consensus on its name. Here are some of the most popular ways it is referred to
- Bacon-wrapped scallops
- Scallops wrapped in bacon
- Bacon scallops
- Bacon-wrapped sea scallops
- Scallops en croûte (French term meaning “in crust”)
The name is not as important as the incredible taste combination – the briny sweetness of the tender scallops contrasts beautifully with the savory, slightly salty bacon wrapping.
But where did this ingenious pairing come from? Let’s take a quick look at the history behind the dish.
Tracing the Origins of Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Putting bacon around other ingredients and cooking them together is a technique that has been around for centuries. Some food historians suggest that early versions of bacon scallops may have originated in Victorian England.
The tradition of wrapping oysters in bacon – also known as “angels on horseback” – became popular in Britain in the 1800s. It appears bacon-wrapped scallops emerged as a variation on this dish.
References to bacon scallops began appearing in American recipes around the early 1900s. As time passed, they gained more mainstream popularity. By the 1980s, they had become a staple appetizer on dinner party, wedding and holiday menus.
These days, bacon-wrapped scallops are a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike. The preparation is simple, they cook quickly, and the taste is exceptional.
How to Make Perfect Bacon Scallops at Home
If you want to try making these tasty morsels yourself, follow these tips:
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Use large, fresh sea scallops – smaller bay scallops will overcook.
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Choose regular sliced bacon – thick cut takes too long to crisp.
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Partially cook the bacon before wrapping to prevent overcooking the scallops.
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Brush with a glaze while cooking to add extra flavor. Maple syrup, honey and brown sugar all work well.
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Broil or bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes until bacon is crisp.
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Serve immediately and enjoy! They don’t reheat well.
Taking these basic steps will ensure your homemade bacon-wrapped scallops turn out perfectly cooked and full of flavor.
Creative Ways to Serve Your Bacon Scallops
A platter of these scallops on their own makes a great appetizer for your next dinner party. But you can also incorporate them into full meals in various ways:
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As an appetizer, serve with toasted baguette slices and a drizzle of lemon.
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For surf and turf, pair with filet mignon and roasted veggies.
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Place atop a fresh salad of baby greens for a lunch or light dinner.
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Mix into pasta or grain bowls along with veggies and cheese.
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Top mini breakfast quiches or omelets for a savory bacon hit.
With so many options, the only limit is your imagination! Bacon scallops pair well with almost anything.
Other Tempting Foods You Can Wrap in Bacon
While scallops may be the most popular bacon-wrapped food, they’re far from the only choice. If you love the combination of crispy, salty bacon with other ingredients, try making:
- Bacon-wrapped shrimp
- Bacon-wrapped chicken pieces
- Bacon-wrapped smoked sausages
- Bacon-wrapped steak tidbits
- Bacon-wrapped water chestnuts
You really can’t go wrong wrapping just about anything in bacon! The contrast of textures and flavors always makes for a crowd-pleasing dish.
So next time you bite into a tasty morsel of scallops bundled in bacon, you’ll know exactly what they are called – and how to make them at home. Give one of the names a try and see if it catches on!