Maple-Smoked Bacon-Wrapped Scallops on Arteflame – Delaware Style

Introduction

Delaware-style maple-smoked bacon-wrapped scallops are a smoky, sweet, and savory dish that's perfect for any seafood lover. By cooking them on the Arteflame grill, we achieve a perfect crisp on the bacon while keeping the scallops tender and juicy. Instead of using a pan or an oven, everything is done right on the flat griddle cooktop, ensuring flawless results every time. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 12 large sea scallops
• 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut in half
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for grilling)
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Toothpicks (for securing bacon)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins into the center of the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and allow the firewood to catch.
4. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to heat up. The center grate will reach over 1,000°F, while the outer flat griddle will have multiple heat zones.

Step 2: Prep the Scallops

1. Pat dry the scallops with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Season with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Wrap each scallop with a half-slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.

Step 3: Sear the Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

1. Place the butter on the flat cooktop near the hotter center zones.
2. Once melted, place the bacon-wrapped scallops seam-side down on the griddle.
3. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side, rotating to ensure crispy bacon.

Step 4: Apply the Maple Glaze

1. Brush the scallops with maple syrup while grilling.
2. Continue rotating until the bacon reaches a deep golden brown color and a slight crisp.

Step 5: Finish Cooking and Serve

1. Once the bacon is perfectly crisp and the scallops are just opaque, remove them when the internal temperature reaches 115°F (it will continue cooking after removal).
2. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Ensure even cooking by rotating the scallops often.
• Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking scallops; they should be tender and not rubbery.
• Place the scallops on different heat zones to manage cooking times as needed.

Variations

1. Spicy Honey Glaze: Substitute maple syrup with honey and add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
2. Garlic Butter Infused: Brush scallops with garlic butter instead of maple syrup for a rich, savory flavor.
3. Lemon Zest & Herb: Add fresh lemon zest and chopped parsley for a refreshing twist.
4. Teriyaki-Glazed: Replace maple syrup with teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired version.
5. Brown Sugar Bourbon: Mix maple syrup with a dash of bourbon and brown sugar for a bolder taste.

Conclusion

Cooking these maple-smoked bacon-wrapped scallops on the Arteflame grill infuses them with a beautifully crisped bacon exterior and a tender, juicy center. With its high-heat searing capabilities and the even cooking surface of the griddle, you’ll achieve steakhouse-quality scallops effortlessly!

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with lemon butter
• Roasted corn on the cob
• Crispy potato wedges
• Chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
• Soft garlic bread