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### **Instructions**
#### **1. Prepare the Leek Fondue**
Start by making the leek fondue, which will take the longest to prepare.
1. **Sauté the leeks**: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook gently, stirring occasionally, for about 5–7 minutes, until the leeks are softened and slightly caramelized. Be sure not to brown the leeks too much—just a gentle sauté to bring out their natural sweetness.
2. **Add liquids and season**: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken stock, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly. The sauce should thicken into a creamy consistency. If you want a more refined flavor, add the Dijon mustard and white wine vinegar, and stir to incorporate.
3. **Season**: Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, you can adjust the white wine vinegar or mustard to your liking.
4. **Keep warm**: Once the fondue has thickened to your desired consistency, reduce the heat to low to keep it warm while you prepare the scallops.
#### **2. Cook the Scallops**
Now that the leek fondue is ready, it’s time to cook the scallops.
1. **Prepare the scallops**: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect sear. Season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper.
2. **Sear the scallops**: In a large nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and foamy, add the scallops to the pan. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan—cook the scallops in batches if necessary.
3. **Cook on each side**: Sear the scallops for about 2–3 minutes on the first side, until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip the scallops and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until the scallops are opaque and firm to the touch. Be careful not to overcook the scallops, as they can become tough and rubbery.
4. **Remove from heat**: Once the scallops are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Keep them warm while you assemble the dish.
#### **3. Assemble the Dish**
Now that both the scallops and leek fondue are ready, it’s time to put everything together.
1. **Plate the leek fondue**: Spoon a generous amount of the leek fondue onto the center of each plate. Use the back of the spoon to spread the fondue into a smooth layer.
2. **Add the scallops**: Carefully place 3–4 scallops on top of the leek fondue on each plate. Arrange them in a circular pattern or however you like for an elegant presentation.
3. **Garnish**: If desired, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.
4. **Serve immediately**: Serve the scallops with leek fondue hot, and enjoy this rich and flavorful dish with a glass of white wine or champagne for a truly luxurious experience.
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### **Tips for Success**
– **Quality of scallops**: The key to this dish is using fresh, high-quality scallops. Look for dry-packed scallops, which are not treated with phosphates and will have a cleaner, more natural flavor.
– **Don’t overcrowd the pan**: When searing the scallops, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will help achieve a perfect sear. Cook the scallops in batches if necessary.
– **Adjust the sauce thickness**: If the leek fondue is too thick, you can thin it with a little extra stock or cream. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce.
– **Substitute vegetables**: If leeks are not available, you can substitute with shallots, onions, or even fennel for a similar flavor profile.
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### **Conclusion**
Scallops with Leek Fondue is a luxurious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of fresh scallops with the rich, creamy texture of leek fondue. It’s an impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for special occasions or any time you want to treat yourself. With its delicate balance of flavors and elegant presentation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy it with your favorite side dishes, and savor the timeless combination of seafood and creamy goodness.
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