Pub-Style Beer-Battered Scallops

Pub-Style Beer-Battered Scallops

1 lb. sea scallops
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup beer
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1 large egg, beaten
Salt and ground black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying

Mix together salt, black pepper and 2 tablespoons flour in a large zip-top bag. In a medium bowl, mix remaining flour and baking soda. Whisk in egg and beer, beating until thin and smooth. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large, heavy skillet to 360 degrees. Working quickly, add scallops to the bag and shake to coat. Remove from bag, shaking off excess flour and dip scallops in batter mixture a few at a time and immediately place in hot oil. Cook 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with cold beer and french fries!

Footnotes - Cook the scallops in batches and do not over-crowd the skillet. Scallops only need a couple of minutes to cook so try not to over-cook them. Over-cooking makes scallops rubbery.