1 Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry Recipe You’ll Love

Introduction

If you love bold flavors and quick meals, this Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry Recipe You’ll Love is your next favorite dinner. Stir fry is a fast, flavorful, and flexible cooking method that’s ideal for busy weeknights. With juicy scallops, savory fishcakes, and colorful vegetables, this dish satisfies both taste and nutrition.

This recipe stands out for its ease, balance of texture, and authentic taste. Callops are one of the fastest proteins to cook, and pairing them with pre-cooked fishcakes reduces your overall cook time. Furthermore, a well-seasoned stir fry brings restaurant-quality results to your kitchen.

For seafood lovers looking to increase omega-3s, this dish is also a win. Scallops are a low-fat source of protein, and explains their benefits, including heart health support. Fishcakes add an umami boost and pair well with Asian sauces.

In this recipe, we’ll walk through everything you need, ingredients, techniques, flavor tips, and storage. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Stir Fry

There are plenty of reasons this fishcakes and scallops stir fry recipe you’ll love will quickly become a weeknight favorite.

1. Incredible Flavor Fusion

This dish blends the delicate sweetness of scallops with the savory richness of fishcakes. Stir-fried in a bold garlic-ginger sauce with umami-packed soy and sesame, every bite is loaded with dynamic flavor. The scallops caramelize slightly, creating a crispy edge that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy interior.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

Although it tastes gourmet, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes. With just one wok or skillet, you’ll have a complete, satisfying meal. The quick cooking time keeps the scallops tender and the vegetables crisp — perfect for busy weeknights.

3. High Protein, Low Fuss

Scallops and fishcakes both offer lean protein, making this dish hearty without feeling heavy. It’s naturally gluten-free (when using the right soy sauce), and can be adapted for low-carb or dairy-free diets.

4. Perfect Texture

Fishcakes provide a chewy bite that balances the soft scallops. Paired with stir-fried veggies like bell peppers, snow peas, or baby corn, the dish delivers a variety of textures in every forkful.

5. Versatile and Customizable

While this is the fishcakes and scallops stir fry recipe you’ll love, it’s easy to tweak:

• Swap in shrimp or calamari.
• Add more heat with chili paste or sriracha.
• Serve it over jasmine rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.

6. Elegant Enough for Guests

Despite how simple it is to prepare, this stir fry looks and tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant. That makes it ideal for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

7. Healthy and Nutrient-Dense

Scallops are rich in B12, selenium, and omega-3s. Fishcakes offer a dose of iodine and essential amino acids. Combine them with fresh veggies, and you’ve got a balanced, nourishing dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before starting, gather all your ingredients. This helps streamline cooking and ensures nothing gets left out.

Main Ingredients

• 8 cooked Asian-style fishcakes, sliced
• 12 medium sea scallops, patted dry
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (like canola or peanut)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup snap peas or snow peas
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced

Sauce Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)
• Red pepper flakes to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• Sliced mushrooms
• Baby corn
• Bok choy or spinach
• Bean sprouts

Tip: Use fresh or defrosted scallops. Avoid overcooking as they can become rubbery.

Equipment Needed

Cooking this dish doesn’t require fancy gear. However, having the right tools helps everything cook evenly and fast.

• Large wok or skillet
• Wooden or silicone spatula
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Small bowl (for mixing sauce)

A wok provides high heat and ample space for tossing ingredients, but a large skillet also works.

Prepping the Ingredients

Getting everything ready before cooking is essential for a successful fishcakes and scallops stir fry recipe you’ll love. Stir-frying happens fast—so prepping ahead keeps everything smooth, safe, and stress-free.

1. Choosing the Right Fishcakes

• Use firm, pre-cooked fishcakes from your local Asian market or grocery store.
• Slice them into bite-sized pieces—about ¼-inch thick—for even cooking.
• If using homemade fishcakes, chill them first for easier slicing.

Tip: For a homemade option, combine white fish (like cod), egg, green onion, and cornstarch in a food processor, then pan-fry until golden.

2. Fresh Scallops

• Choose dry-packed sea scallops—they sear better and won’t release excess water.
• Pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking.
• Cut large scallops in half crosswise if needed, so they cook evenly.

3. Vegetable Selection and Prep

Add both flavor and nutrition with a mix of crisp, colorful vegetables. Here are popular choices:

• Bell peppers – sliced thin for quick cooking
• Snow peas or sugar snap peas – trimmed and halved
• Baby bok choy – chopped into halves or quarters
• Shallots or red onions – thinly sliced
• Garlic and ginger – finely minced or grated

Garlic and ginger are must-have aromatics. They’re added first to flavor the oil and infuse the entire dish.

4. Sauce Mix Preparation

Have your sauce ready before the stir-fry starts:

Mix together in a bowl:

• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce or hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
• ½ tsp brown sugar (optional)
• ½ tsp cornstarch (for slight thickening)

Whisk it well and set aside. You’ll pour this in during the final minute of stir-frying.

5. Garnishes and Add-Ons

Toppings can elevate your stir fry:

• Chopped scallions
• Cilantro leaves
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Lime wedges
• Crushed peanuts or cashews

6. Tools You’ll Need

Before cooking, grab these kitchen essentials:

Mixing bowls for sauces and veggies

Wok or large nonstick skillet

Silicone or wooden spatula

Sharp knife and cutting board

How to Make the Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry

Here’s the simple method to achieve that perfect sizzle:

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add scallops, sear undisturbed for 1.5–2 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
3. Add fishcakes to the same wok, cook for 2–3 minutes until golden. Set aside with scallops.
4. Add onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir fry for 1 minute.
5. Toss in veggies (peppers, peas). Stir fry for 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender.
6. Return scallops and fishcakes to wok.
7. Pour sauce over, toss everything to coat.
8. Cook another minute until heated through.

Serve hot with rice, noodles, or on its own.

Flavor Tips and Variations

One of the best things about this fishcakes and scallops stir fry recipe you’ll love is how easily it can be customized to match your taste buds. Whether you like it spicy, tangy, or sweet, there are countless ways to enhance and personalize this dish.

1. Boost the Umami

• Add a splash of fish sauce or oyster sauce to deepen the savory flavors.
• A touch of miso paste works wonders for a more complex base.
• For a more balanced bite, include a dash of rice vinegar or lime juice to brighten the dish.

2. Go Spicy

• Love heat? Stir in sliced Thai chilies, sriracha, or chili garlic paste.
• A spoonful of gochujang (Korean fermented chili paste) adds bold heat and sweetness.
• For milder spice, use crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sesame oil.

3. Add Crunch and Color

• Include crisp vegetables like water chestnuts, baby corn, or shredded carrots.
• Try snap peas, bok choy, or bell peppers for a vibrant mix and extra nutrients.
• Top with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added texture.

4. Herb and Aromatic Upgrades

• Stir in fresh Thai basil, cilantro, or scallions at the end for a fragrant boost.
• Garlic and ginger are essential—use fresh for maximum impact.
• Add a teaspoon of lemongrass paste for a citrusy twist.

5. Protein Swaps and Additions

While this dish stars fishcakes and scallops, you can experiment with:

• Shrimp or prawns for a similar texture
• Firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version
• Thinly sliced chicken breast if you prefer poultry

6. Sauce Variations

Customize your stir fry sauce depending on your mood:

• Sweet & savory: Mix soy sauce, hoisin, and a spoon of honey
• Tangy & fresh: Blend lime juice, tamari, and grated ginger
• Creamy & spicy: Add a splash of coconut milk with red curry paste

7. Serving Suggestions

Top with a soft-boiled egg or fried shallots for extra flair..

Serve over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for low-carb options.

Wrap it in lettuce cups for a light, handheld version.

Nutritional Benefits

Eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. This fishcakes and scallops stir fry recipe you’ll love offers a delicious way to enjoy a nutrient-packed meal that supports a healthy lifestyle.

1. High-Quality Protein

Both fishcakes and scallops are excellent sources of lean protein, which helps:

• Build and repair muscle tissue
• Support immune function
• Keep you feeling full longer

A single serving of scallops provides over 20 grams of protein with minimal fat, making them ideal for balanced eating.

2. Low in Calories and Carbs

This stir fry is naturally low in carbohydrates and calories, especially when served without rice or with low-carb alternatives like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. It’s great for low-carb and keto-friendly diets.

3. Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Scallops contain heart-healthy omega-3s, which help reduce inflammation, support brain health, and improve cardiovascular function. Additionally, the fish in fishcakes—often made from cod, haddock, or pollock—also provides omega-3 benefits.

4. Essential Vitamins and Minerals

This dish is packed with key nutrients, such as:

• Vitamin B12: Supports brain function and energy metabolism
• Selenium: Acts as an antioxidant to protect cells from damage
• Iodine: Important for thyroid function
• Magnesium and Potassium: Regulate blood pressure and nerve function

When paired with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or broccoli, this stir fry becomes even more nutrient-dense.

5. Healthy Fats from Sesame Oil

The addition of sesame oil not only boosts flavor but also provides polyunsaturated fats that may help lower cholesterol and support skin health.

6. Dairy-Free and Easily Gluten-Free

This recipe is naturally dairy-free. To make it gluten-free, simply use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. This makes it suitable for people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

7. No Added Sugar

Unlike many takeout stir-fry dishes, this homemade version contains no added sugar or artificial ingredients. You control the salt, spice, and sauce content for a cleaner, healthier meal.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this stir fry with simple sides for a complete meal.

Great Pairings

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Stir-fried noodles
• Garlic fried rice
• Quinoa or brown rice

Drink Pairing: Try it with green tea, a crisp white wine, or sparkling water with lime.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish stores and reheats well.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes in scallops.

Reheating

• Warm in a skillet over medium heat until hot.
• Add a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.

Avoid microwaving scallops — it can make them rubbery.

Troubleshooting Tips

Common Issues

Scallops turn rubbery?

• Overcooked. Cook just 2 minutes per side and remove immediately.

Veggies too soft?

• High heat and quick cooking preserve texture.

Sauce too salty?

• Use low-sodium soy and balance with rice vinegar or sugar.

Fishcakes fall apart?

• Use firm varieties and handle gently while stirring.

FAQs

What are the three rules of stir-frying?

1. Prep everything before cooking.
2. Use high heat and a wide pan.
3. Don’t overcrowd the pan.

Which fish is best for stir-fry?

Firm white fish like cod, halibut, or snapper work well. However, fishcakes offer convenience and flavor.

What is the secret to a good stir-fry?

High heat, dry ingredients, and a balanced sauce. Also, don’t overcook the seafood.

Can you pan-fry fish cakes?

Yes. They crisp up beautifully in a hot skillet with a little oil.

What sauce to serve with fish cake?

Soy-based sauces, chili garlic sauce, or sweet soy glaze are excellent choices.

How do you keep fish cakes from falling apart?

Use firm-textured cakes and avoid stirring them too aggressively during cooking.

Conclusion

This Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry Recipe You’ll Love is everything you need in a dinner: fast, flavorful, and satisfying. With a simple sauce, crisp veggies, and tender seafood, it’s a restaurant-quality meal made easy at home.

Whether you’re new to stir-frying or a seasoned cook, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a delicious meal packed with texture and taste!

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