Scallops are a fine delicacy that can make any meal feel more luxurious. But all scallops are not created equal; while they may look similar, there are many different types of scallops with unique flavors, appearances, and cooking methods. Bay scallops and sea scallops are the types that you are most likely to see on a seafood menu. Read on to learn about the distinctions between these types and learn which option is best for your next dish.
What is a Scallop?
You probably know how tasty scallops are, but what exactly are they? Scallops are a species of bivalve mollusks characterized by two hinged shells that protect their soft bodies. (Oysters, mussels, and clams are also bivalve mollusks.) The part of the scallop we eat is the adductor muscle, which connects the shells and is responsible for opening and closing them.
Bay Scallops: The Sweet, Small Delights
Bay scallops (known formally as Argopecten irradians in the scientific community) are small in stature, ranging from 1/2 to 3/4 inches in diameter and 50 to 100 scallops per pound. But these cream-colored creatures pack plenty to savor in a tiny package. Bay scallops are renowned for their subtle, sweet flavor and tender texture. They are most often found in shallow, protected waters in coastal areas, bays, and estuaries. The Gulf Coast of Florida is the most prominent place to harvest bay scallops, and the prime harvesting season runs from July through early October.
If you're interested in getting in the kitchen and cooking bay scallops yourself, use quick-cooking methods like sauteing or adding them to soups and seafood stews. Their small size means they can cook rapidly, while retaining their tenderness and moisture.
Sea Scallops: The Big, Bold Bites
Sea scallops (aka Placopecten magellanicus) are different than bay scallops in many ways. Sea scallops are larger, measuring between 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter with a whiter appearance. 20 to 30 sea scallops typically equal a pound. They also have a firmer, meaty texture and a more pronounced salty flavor. Sea scallops are most often harvested from deeper areas of the ocean (usually the Atlantic) in cold waters.
Sea scallops can be cooked in many ways, but to get the most out of their taste, it's best to grill them, broil them, or sear them for a golden crust. Their larger size enables them to withstand longer cooking times at higher heat, caramelizing the outside without overcooking the insides.
Bay Scallops vs Sea Scallops: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Here's how bay scallops and sea scallops compare head-to-head:
Size
- Sea scallops measure between 1 1/2 and 2 inches in diameter, making them much bigger than bay scallops, which range from 1/2 to 3/4 inches in diameter.
Habitat
- The prime places for bay scallops are in the shallow areas of estuaries, bays, and coastal harbors, with the summer and early fall providing the most bountiful harvesting season. By contrast, sea scallops are found year-round in cold, deep waters up to 200 meters off the east coast.
Flavor
- Sea scallops provide a rich taste with an unmistakable brininess. Bay scallops deliver a delicate taste that's sweeter to the tongue.
Texture: Tender vs. Meaty and firm
- Bay scallops have a tender texture, while sea scallops have a more meaty and chewier texture.
Best Use
- The cooking methods that lead to the best results for sea scallops are grilling, broiling, and searing. For bay scallops, it's better to use quick-cooking techniques like sauteing or including them in soups or seafood stews.
Why Choose Billy's Stone Crab for Your Scallops?
If you're looking for some high-quality scallops, there's no better place to find them than Billy's Stone Crab. Our family-owned and operated restaurant in Fort Lauderdale provides an excellent dining experience with fresh scallops, top-class service, and a gorgeous view of the Intracoastal Waterway. Don't live in the area? Not a problem! Billy's Stone Crab will also ship bay and sea scallops overnight across the country for you to enjoy from the comfort of your home.
The Final Word on Scallops
Both bay scallops and sea scallops can be delicious parts of any dish, depending on the taste, texture, and the recipe they're used in. Whether you're craving the sweet, tender bite of a bay scallop or the rich, meaty flavor of a sea scallop, Billy's Stone Crab has you covered. Explore our selection of fresh scallops today! If you have any questions about our products, contact us today.