Scallops Steamed In Their Shells

1. 1

   Melt 1 1/2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat.

2. 2

   Add the leeks and salt and cook until very soft but not brown, about 15 minutes.

3. 3

   Set aside.

4. 4

   Scrub the scallop shells well.

5. 5

   With a thin, sharp knife, pry open the shell, slip the knife inside and cut through the large white muscle tab to release one side of the shell.

6. 6

   Open the shell fully and pull out and discard everything but the white muscle and the reddish roe.

7. 7

   Rinse under cold running water to remove all grit.

8. 8

   Pat inside and outside of shells dry.

9. 9

   Repeat with the remaining scallops.

10. 10

    Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

11. 11

    Roll out the pastry and cut into 12 strips, 1 by 13 inches long.

12. 12

    Keep refrigerated until ready to use.

13. 13

    Place some of the leek mixture and 1 teaspoon of butter into each scallop shell.

14. 14

    Use a strip of pastry to seal the shells tightly shut.

15. 15

    Leave no gaps.

16. 16

    Brush the dough with the egg yolks beaten with 1 teaspoon water.

17. 17

    (If you can't get scallops in their shells, use 12 large sea scallops and place them in 12 scallop shells, available from kitchen-supply stores.)

18. 18

    Scallops can also be baked with their shells tightly wrapped in aluminum foil.

19. 19

    Spread kosher salt evenly on two baking sheets, nestle the shells in the salt and bake 13 minutes, or until pastry is browned and puffed.

20. 20

    Serve immediately on warm plates.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.