Seaweed Wrapped Scallops Ponzu (Printable)

Crisp nori enfolds tender scallops, seared and served with a bright ponzu dipping sauce for a light dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Scallops & Wrapping

01 - 8 large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
02 - 4 sheets nori (dried seaweed), cut in half
03 - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
04 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
05 - Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing

→ Ponzu Sauce

06 - 3 tablespoons soy sauce
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
08 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
09 - 1 tablespoon mirin
10 - 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
11 - 1 teaspoon sugar
12 - 1 green onion, finely sliced

→ Garnish

13 - Toasted sesame seeds
14 - Thinly sliced green onion

# Directions:

01 - Combine soy sauce, lemon juice, rice vinegar, mirin, ginger, and sugar in a small bowl. Stir until sugar dissolves completely. Add sliced green onion and set aside.
02 - Pat scallops dry and season both sides lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
03 - Wrap each scallop with a half sheet of nori, moistening the edge with water to seal. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
04 - Heat sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until oil shimmers.
05 - Add wrapped scallops seam-side down to the hot skillet. Sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side until nori is crisp and scallops are just cooked through.
06 - Transfer seared scallops to a serving plate and remove toothpicks. Drizzle with ponzu sauce or serve sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and green onion slices.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Elegant Simplicity: A gourmet result that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.
  • Texture Contrast: The combination of tender scallops and crispy seaweed is incredibly satisfying.
  • Flavor Depth: The homemade ponzu sauce adds a refreshing citrus lift to the rich sesame-seared scallops.
02 -
  • Seam Down First: Starting the sear with the nori seam face-down in the oil helps lock it in place without needing as many toothpicks.
  • Moisture Control: Use only a tiny drop of water to seal the nori; too much moisture can make the seaweed chewy rather than crisp.
  • High Heat: Use medium-high heat to ensure the nori crisps quickly before the scallop becomes overcooked.
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