Maryland Chesapeake Bay Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

Introduction

Bring the taste of Maryland's Chesapeake Bay to your backyard with these incredible bacon-wrapped scallops. Perfectly seared on the Arteflame grill, these bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and glazed to perfection. Whether you're hosting a cookout or just cooking for the family, this easy yet impressive dish is a must-try.

Ingredients

• 12 large sea scallops
• 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut in half
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toothpicks

The Sear Makes the Steak, And Arteflame Makes the Sear

Why settle for low-temperature searing when you can achieve steakhouse-quality results with an Arteflame? Gas grills take longer, drying out your steak, while the Arteflame sears at 1000°F in just one minute, locking in juices for perfection.

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Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins and light them.
3. Let the fire build for about 20 minutes until the flat griddle cooktop is hot.

Step 2: Prepare the scallops

1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning.

Step 3: Precook the bacon

1. Place the bacon slices on the outer edges of the Arteflame flat cooktop.
2. Cook until they begin to brown but are still flexible. Do not fully crisp.
3. Remove from the grill and let them cool slightly.

Step 4: Wrap scallops with bacon

1. Wrap each scallop with a half slice of bacon.
2. Secure the bacon with a toothpick.

Step 5: Grill the scallops

1. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops on the hotter inner part of the flat cooktop.
2. Sear each side for about 2 minutes to develop a golden crust.
3. Move the scallops towards the outer cooktop to finish cooking, about 4-5 minutes per side.

Step 6: Glaze and finish

1. Melt the butter on the flat cooktop and mix with honey and Dijon mustard.
2. Brush the glaze onto the scallops while they finish cooking.
3. Remove from the grill when the internal temperature reaches 125°F (they will continue cooking off the grill).

Tips

• Ensure the scallops are dry before grilling for the best sear.
• Use thick-cut bacon for better flavor and texture.
• Let the scallops rest for a couple of minutes after removing from the grill.

Variations

1. Spicy Maple Bacon Scallops: Replace honey with maple syrup and add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
2. Garlic-Herb Scallops: Add minced garlic and chopped parsley to the butter glaze.
3. Teriyaki Glazed Scallops: Use a teriyaki sauce glaze instead of honey and Dijon.
4. Lemon-Pepper Scallops: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon and cracked black pepper.
5. Brown Sugar Bourbon Scallops: Mix brown sugar and bourbon into the glaze for a deep caramelized flavor.

Best pairings

• Grilled asparagus or brussels sprouts
• Buttery garlic mashed potatoes
• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
• Homemade coleslaw with vinegar dressing

Conclusion

These Maryland Chesapeake Bay Bacon-Wrapped Scallops are the ideal combination of crispy, smoky, and sweet flavors, all grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. Whether you're hosting a feast or just after a gourmet experience, this dish will impress every time.