⅓lbscallops(the larger, 'Atlantic' scallops - should be around 4-6 scallops)
1shallot
1tablespoonunsalted butter
¼cupwhite wine
3tablespoonheavy creamdouble cream
4tablespoonbreadcrumbs
2tablespoongruyere cheesegrated
Instructions
Remove any side muscle/coral from the scallops and ensure they are clean (you can either discard or cook separately for a snack!). Finely chop the shallot.
Melt the butter in a small saucepan and add the shallot. Cook for a minute or two until softened.
Add the wine to the shallot and bring to a simmer. Add the scallops and cover the pan. Cook around a minute on each side until the scallops become translucent. Remove the scallops and leave the pan uncovered to let the wine reduce down a minute.
Meanwhile, slice the scallops through the middle to give two thinner rounds on each (they may be slightly uncooked in the middle - this is fine. Divide the scallops between two ramekins (or scallop shells if you have them - you will probably need more if you have the latter). Preheat the broiler (grill).
Once the wine is looking a little syrup-like, remove from the heat and add the cream. Stir to mix then pour the sauce over the scallops. Push the shallots down a little as needed.
Mix together the breadcrumbs and cheese and divide the mixture between the dishes/shells with the scallops. Put the dishes under the broiler/grill for a minute or two until the top browns gently. Best served immediately, warm.
Notes
If you prefer and have time, you can toast/cook the breadcrumbs in a little butter first in a skillet/frying pan. Then let them cool a minute before mixing with the cheese.Scallops can become tough if overcooked so I wouldn't recommend trying to re-heat this.