Hibachi Scallops from Benihana feature tender, succulent scallops grilled to perfection with a savory blend of garlic butter and soy sauce, served sizzling alongside vibrant vegetables for a flavorful and visually appealing dining experience.
Equipments
- Hibachi grill or flat-top grill
- Spatula
- Tongs
- Mixing bowls
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Small saucepan (for garlic butter)
- Basting brush
- Serving plates
- Squeeze bottles (for soy sauce or sauces)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges)
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (for garnish)
When preparing Hibachi Scallops, use fresh sea scallops for optimal tenderness and flavor, and ensure they are patted dry before cooking to achieve a perfect sear. Unsalted butter allows you to control sodium levels while enhancing the garlic butter sauce, which is essential for authentic taste. Soy sauce should be of high quality to avoid overly salty or artificial flavors; use squeeze bottles for easy and precise application during grilling. Fresh, vibrant vegetables like zucchini, onions, mushrooms, and carrots not only add color but also provide a balanced texture contrast to the scallops. Your homemade Hibachi Scallops from Benihana copycat menu will taste authentic and visually appealing when carefully balancing these ingredients and cooking techniques.
Instructions
- **Instructions:**
- Pat scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper.
- Preheat hibachi or flat-top grill to medium-high heat.
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil on grill.
- Add zucchini, onion, mushrooms, and carrots to grill.
- Stir-fry vegetables with spatula until tender-crisp; season with salt and pepper.
- Push vegetables aside to keep warm.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat; add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon vegetable oil on the empty portion of grill.
- Place scallops onto grill and cook 1–2 minutes per side until golden and just opaque.
- Brush scallops with garlic butter and drizzle with soy sauce while cooking.
- Toss scallops briefly to coat in sauces and finish cooking.
- Arrange cooked vegetables and scallops on serving plates.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Hibachi Scallops from Benihana copycat menu highlights tender scallops grilled with garlic butter and soy sauce, paired with colorful vegetables. If you can't find fresh sea scallops, jumbo bay scallops work well as a substitute, keeping the texture similar. Use a non-stick skillet or griddle if you don't have a hibachi or flat-top grill to achieve even cooking and caramelization. When preparing garlic butter, gently melt the butter to avoid browning and add minced garlic last for maximum flavor. Your dish will benefit from seasoning the scallops just before grilling to ensure they retain moisture and develop a savory crust.
Tips
Ensure scallops are thoroughly patted dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect sear and prevent steaming. Preheat the hibachi or flat-top grill to medium-high heat to maintain the ideal cooking temperature for both scallops and vegetables. Use minimal cooking oil on the grill surface to avoid soggy textures and allow the garlic butter and soy sauce to enhance flavor during the cooking process. Remember, overcooking scallops results in a rubbery texture, so cook them just until opaque for the best tenderness in Your dish.
Nutritions
Hibachi Scallops from Benihana provide a high-protein, low-fat meal rich in essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart and brain health. The grilled vegetables add dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants that promote digestion and immune function. Using unsalted butter and controlling soy sauce helps manage sodium and saturated fat intake, making this dish a balanced option. Your meal combines lean seafood with nutrient-dense vegetables, offering a flavorful and health-conscious dining experience.
Storage
Store leftover Hibachi Scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Separate the scallops from the vegetables if possible to avoid moisture buildup that can affect texture. When reheating, use a skillet on medium heat to preserve the scallops' tenderness and the vegetables' crispness for your best dining experience.
Variation or Alternatives
To vary the cooking process, you can replace the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option that offers a similar umami flavor enhancing your scallops. Swap the sea scallops for diver scallops or large bay scallops depending on availability to adjust texture and size. Incorporate a splash of sake or mirin during the garlic butter melt to infuse subtle sweetness and depth into the marinade. For a smoky twist, consider finishing the scallops with a quick char under a broiler or on a cast-iron skillet if hibachi equipment is unavailable.
Allergies
Hibachi Scallops contain shellfish, which is a common allergen that can cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals. The dish also includes soy sauce, potentially triggering soy allergies, and butter, which contains dairy and may affect those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Your vigilance is essential if you have any of these food allergies to avoid adverse health effects.
Why this recipe?
Hibachi Scallops at Benihana stand out for their tender, perfectly seared scallops infused with a savory blend of garlic butter and soy sauce, delivering a rich umami flavor that excites the palate. The dish is complemented by fresh vegetables grilled to perfection, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. You will appreciate the opportunity to recreate this experience at home, offering a restaurant-quality meal that is both impressive and satisfying. Making a copycat version allows you to enjoy this gourmet delight while customizing flavors to your preference and controlling ingredient quality.