What is a Good Substitute for Scallops? Guide
Discover the best substitutes for scallops in cooking and baking. Learn about seafood alternatives, vegetarian options, and cooking tips for perfect results every time.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for scallops are shrimp, lobster, crab, monkfish, or king oyster mushrooms. Shrimp is the most versatile and affordable option, while lobster provides luxury, monkfish offers similar texture, and king oyster mushrooms work for vegetarian dishes.
Best Substitutes
Shrimp
1:1The most versatile and widely available substitute for scallops. Sweet, firm seafood that works in almost any scallop recipe with minimal adjustments.
Best for:
Cook 1-2 minutes less than scallops. Choose large shrimp for best results.
Lobster
1:1Premium seafood substitute with sweet, delicate flavor and firm texture. Most luxurious option for scallop replacements.
Best for:
Most expensive option but provides excellent flavor and texture match.
Crab
1:1Sweet, delicate seafood with flaky texture. Works well in many scallop preparations and is widely available.
Best for:
Use lump crab meat for best texture. Handle gently to avoid breaking apart.
Monkfish
1:1Firm, meaty white fish often called 'poor man's lobster' due to its texture. Excellent substitute for those who prefer fish over shellfish.
Best for:
Remove the tough membrane before cooking. Cut into scallop-sized pieces.
King Oyster Mushrooms
1:1Large mushrooms with meaty texture and umami flavor. Best vegetarian substitute that can be prepared to look like scallops.
Best for:
Slice into rounds to mimic scallop shape. Sear well for best texture and appearance.
Halibut
1:1Mild, flaky white fish with delicate flavor. Good substitute for those who prefer fish over shellfish.
Best for:
Cut into thick pieces to maintain texture. Don't overcook to avoid drying out.
Cooking Tips
- 💡Shrimp is the most versatile substitute and works in almost any scallop recipe
- 💡Lobster provides the most luxurious substitute but is the most expensive
- 💡Monkfish offers the closest texture match to scallops among fish options
- 💡King oyster mushrooms are the best vegetarian substitute and can look remarkably like scallops
- 💡Crab works well in pasta dishes and seafood preparations
- 💡Halibut and other firm white fish work well when cut into appropriate sizes
- 💡Always adjust cooking times - most substitutes cook faster than scallops
- 💡Season substitutes well as they may need more flavor than fresh scallops
- 💡Consider your guests' dietary restrictions when choosing substitutes
- 💡For dried scallops, use dried shrimp, fish sauce, or mushroom powder for umami flavor
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best overall substitute for scallops?
Shrimp is the best overall substitute for scallops because it's widely available, affordable, and works in almost any scallop recipe with minimal adjustments to cooking time.
Can I use any type of shrimp as a scallop substitute?
Large shrimp (16-20 count) or jumbo shrimp (U-15 count) work best as scallop substitutes. Smaller shrimp can work in dishes where they'll be chopped or mixed with other ingredients.
What's the best vegetarian substitute for scallops?
King oyster mushrooms are the best vegetarian substitute for scallops. They can be sliced into rounds that look like scallops and have a meaty texture when cooked properly.
Are there any fish that work well as scallop substitutes?
Yes, monkfish is often called 'poor man's lobster' and has a very firm texture similar to scallops. Halibut, cod, and sea bass also work well when cut into appropriate sizes.
How do I choose the right substitute for my recipe?
Consider your dietary preferences, budget, and the cooking method. Shrimp works for most recipes, lobster for elegant presentations, monkfish for firm texture, and king oyster mushrooms for vegetarian dishes.