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Shrimp and Scallops with Asian Eggplant

4.3

(50)

This meal is reminiscent of one we enjoyed at the Lemon Grass Restaurant in New Orleans.

Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 40 min

Cooks' note:

•Eggplant is a sponge for oil. Don't add more oil, even if skillet looks dry, unless eggplant sticks.

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    40 min

  • Yield

    Makes 2 servings

Ingredients

2 scallions
1/2 lb large shrimp (about 12), shelled and deveined
1/2 lb sea scallops, tough muscles removed
3 1/2 to 5 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 (1/2-lb) Asian eggplant or small Italian eggplant, halved lengthwise and cut diagonally into 1/2-inch-thick slices
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 to 2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon Asian chile paste
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves
1 tablespoon small fresh basil leaves

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Cut scallion greens into 1-inch lengths, reserving white parts for another use.

    Step 2

    Pat shellfish dry and season with salt and pepper.

    Step 3

    Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then stir-fry eggplant with salt and pepper until golden brown on both sides and cooked through (add 1 1/2 tablespoons more oil if eggplant is sticking to skillet). Transfer eggplant to a plate as cooked and keep warm, covered.

    Step 4

    Add 2 tablespoons oil to skillet and sear shrimp and scallops in batches, without crowding, until just cooked through, about 4 minutes. Transfer to plate and keep warm, covered.

    Step 5

    Add water, soy sauce, sugar, and chile paste to skillet and simmer, stirring, until reduced by half. Stir in lime juice.

    Step 6

    Serve shellfish and eggplant with sauce, scallion greens, cilantro, and basil.

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