Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry – Quick, Flavorful, and Easy Seafood Recipe

If you’re looking for a flavor-packed seafood dish that is quick to prepare yet restaurant-worthy, fishcakes and scallops stir fry is the perfect choice. This dish blends the crispy, savory bite of fishcakes with the buttery sweetness of seared scallops, all brought together with a rich, umami stir fry sauce.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or someone looking to add more variety to your meals, this stir fry offers a satisfying balance of textures and flavors. The combination of crispy fishcakes and tender, caramelized scallops creates an irresistible contrast, making every bite exciting. The best part? It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a busy weeknight dinner.

For a broader understanding of different seafood options and their cooking techniques, check out this Ultimate Guide to Cooking Seafood by NOAA Fisheries.

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Why You’ll Love This Stir Fry Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this fishcakes and scallops stir fry, but here are a few that make it an absolute must-try:

• Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and a fast cooking time, you can have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those who want a homemade gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Healthy & Nutritious: This dish is packed with lean protein, healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins from the scallops and fishcakes. The addition of vegetables makes it even healthier, providing a well-balanced meal.
• Versatile & Customizable: You can switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Prefer a spicy kick? Add some chili flakes or Thai bird’s eye chilies. Want a sweeter, tangier taste? Drizzle a little honey and soy sauce for an Asian-inspired glaze.

For those who enjoy experimenting with different seafood dishes, be sure to check out this McKenzie’s Crab Meat Patties Recipe for another delicious seafood option.

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Key Ingredients for Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry

Fishcakes: The Crunchy Element

Fishcakes serve as a hearty and flavorful component of this dish. Whether homemade or store-bought, they add a crispy yet soft bite to the stir fry.

• Best Fish for Fishcakes: Traditional fishcakes are often made using white fish like cod, haddock, or pollock. These fish provide a mild flavor and flaky texture that works well with various seasonings.
• Seasoning Options: To enhance the taste, fishcakes can be flavored with parsley, garlic, scallions, and lemon zest, creating a bright and aromatic profile.
• Cooking Tip: To maintain their crispy texture, lightly fry the fishcakes before adding them to the stir fry. This prevents them from becoming soggy when mixed with the sauce.

Scallops: The Star of the Dish

Scallops are delicate and naturally sweet, offering a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture when cooked correctly.

• Types of Scallops:
• Sea Scallops – These are larger, meatier, and ideal for searing.
• Bay Scallops – These are smaller, tender, and cook faster.
• Cooking Tip: The key to perfectly cooked scallops is to pat them dry before cooking. Moisture prevents them from achieving that golden-brown sear.
• Expert Tip: Master the technique of perfectly seared scallops with this detailed guide.

Vegetables & Aromatics: Adding Color and Depth

Vegetables bring freshness, crunch, and added nutrition to the stir fry. Some of the best options include:

• Bell Peppers – These add a natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
• Bok Choy – A tender leafy green that absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Carrots & Asparagus – Offer a slightly sweet, earthy taste that balances the dish.
• Garlic & Ginger – These essential aromatics provide depth, fragrance, and warmth to the dish.

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How to Cook Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have everything ready.

1. Slice the fishcakes into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
2. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
3. Chop the vegetables into uniform sizes for quick and even stir-frying.

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Step 2: Cook the Scallops

Achieving a beautiful sear on scallops enhances their flavor and texture.

• Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok over high heat.
• Place the scallops in the pan in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
• Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms.
• Remove from the pan and set aside.

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Step 3: Stir Fry the Vegetables & Fishcakes

• Add a bit more oil to the wok.
• Stir fry garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Toss in vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften but retain some crunch.
• Add fishcakes and stir fry for another 2 minutes, allowing them to crisp up slightly.

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Step 4: Combine Everything

• Return the scallops to the wok.
• Pour in a flavorful mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a dash of sesame oil.
• Toss everything together, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce.
• Stir fry for an additional 1-2 minutes before removing from heat.

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Variations & Serving Ideas

• Spicy Thai Style: Add red chili flakes and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing heat.
• Japanese Teriyaki: Swap out oyster sauce for teriyaki sauce to create a slightly sweeter stir fry.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a keto-friendly meal.

If you’re a fan of bold seafood flavors, don’t miss out on this Boom Boom Shrimp Recipe for a fiery, flavor-packed experience.

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Conclusion

This fishcakes and scallops stir fry is a quick and delicious way to enjoy seafood at home. The crispy texture of the fishcakes, the buttery tenderness of the scallops, and the rich umami sauce make this a perfect dish for seafood lovers.

For another amazing seafood stir fry, check out the Chili Crisp Salmon Bowl to expand your seafood cooking repertoire.

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