Vegan Scallops Recipe That Tastes Just Like The Real Thing

If you’ve been craving the delicate, buttery flavor of scallops but want to keep your meals entirely plant-based, you’re in for a treat. This vegan scallops recipe offers a creative and delicious way to enjoy a seafood favorite without any animal products.

Using king oyster mushrooms as the star ingredient, these vegan scallops deliver the perfect texture and umami-rich taste that mimics the real thing beautifully. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or simply looking to reduce your seafood consumption, this recipe will impress both your taste buds and your guests.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish in no time. Perfect for a fancy dinner or a cozy night in, these vegan scallops pair wonderfully with pasta, risotto, or fresh salads.

Dive into this recipe and discover how delicious and satisfying plant-based cooking can be!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan scallops recipe shines because it transforms humble king oyster mushrooms into succulent, tender scallop-like morsels. The mushrooms’ firm texture naturally mimics the chewiness of scallops, while a marinade featuring seaweed and seasonings adds a subtle briny flavor reminiscent of the ocean.

Besides being a fantastic meatless alternative, this recipe is packed with nutrients and free from common allergens like soy and gluten. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a gourmet, plant-based meal.

Plus, the cooking process is straightforward, making it accessible even if you’re new to vegan cooking.

For more creative vegan dishes, try our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or explore rich, comforting options with our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.

Ingredients

• 4 large king oyster mushrooms (these will be sliced into scallop-like rounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for cooking)
• 1 sheet of nori seaweed (or 1 teaspoon dulse flakes for a sea flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons white wine (optional, for deglazing and flavor)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds depth and subtle smokiness)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Blender or food processor (for blending the seaweed)
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Plate lined with paper towels (for draining mushrooms)

Instructions

1. Prepare the mushrooms: Clean the king oyster mushrooms by wiping them with a damp cloth to remove any dirt. Slice each mushroom into 1-inch thick rounds, resembling scallop medallions.
2. Create the seaweed infusion: Tear the nori sheet into small pieces and place them in a blender or food processor. Add 2 tablespoons of water and blend until smooth to create a sea-flavored marinade base. If using dulse flakes, soak them in 2 tablespoons of water for 10 minutes and blend similarly.
3. Marinate the scallops: In a mixing bowl, combine the blended seaweed, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the mushroom slices and gently toss to coat. Allow them to marinate for 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Preheat the pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil to coat the surface.
5. Cook the scallops: Using tongs or a spatula, place the marinated mushroom slices in the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
6. Deglaze the pan (optional): After cooking the scallops, pour in the white wine to deglaze the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits with your spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the wine reduces slightly, creating a light sauce.
7. Serve: Place the vegan scallops on a serving plate, drizzle with the pan sauce if using, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture, be sure to slice the king oyster mushrooms thickly — thin slices won’t hold up as well during cooking.”

To amp up the seafood flavor, try adding a splash of vegan fish sauce or a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade. If you prefer a richer sauce, serve these scallops over a bed of creamy vegan bechamel sauce or toss them with vegetable alfredo pasta.

If you want a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the marinade. For a gluten-free version, ensure your white wine and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

You can also experiment by adding fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon for a different flavor profile.

Nutrition Facts

These values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

Vegan scallops are incredibly versatile. Serve them atop creamy risotto or alongside garlic-infused mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

They also pair beautifully with light, fresh salads featuring citrus vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

For a more decadent presentation, try serving these scallops over pasta tossed with our vegetable alfredo sauce. Alternatively, incorporate them into a vegan seafood platter with other plant-based favorites like vegan caviar and seaweed salads for a complete ocean-inspired feast.

Conclusion

Creating vegan scallops at home is not only a fun culinary adventure but also a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors and textures of seafood without compromising your plant-based lifestyle. King oyster mushrooms provide the perfect base, offering a meaty texture that soaks up the briny marinade beautifully.

With simple pantry ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy an elegant, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Whether you’re cooking for special occasions or just want to try something new, this vegan scallops recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Don’t forget to explore other delicious vegan dishes like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe for dessert or our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe to bake fresh loaves to accompany your meals.

Happy cooking and enjoy the delightful taste of the sea—plant-based style!

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