Asian-inspired finger foods are the basis of this sexy Valentine's Day menu.
Who needs knives and forks? Create a seductive mood with this light menu of Asian-inspired small bites, starting with soy-ginger marinated scallops. Next, turn lettuce wraps into a complete main course by wrapping up hoisin-grilled chicken with steamed jasmine rice. By the time you get to the crispy molten chocolate-filled wontons, you’ll have your lover eating out of your hand.
Menu Timeline
Two hours ahead:
- Assemble the chocolate wontons and refrigerate.
- Make the dipping sauce for the wontons.
One hour ahead:
- Marinate the scallops.
- Cook the rice and keep warm.
- Assemble the bacon-wrapped scallops.
- Prep the lettuce leaves and garnishes for the chicken.
- Heat the oven and grill.
20 minutes ahead:
- Grill the chicken.
- Bake the scallops.
- Chop up the chicken and mix it with its sauce.
- Serve the chicken with the rice to roll up in the lettuce wrappers.
Shopping List
Fresh Produce
- 1 large head Boston lettuce
- 1 bunch fresh basil
- 1 bunch fresh mint
- 1 bunch scallions
- 1 fresh jalapeño or other small hot chile (optional)
- 1 small piece fresh ginger
Meat, Eggs & Dairy
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken thighs (about 1-1/2 lb.)
- 6 very large “dry” sea scallops (8 to 10 oz. total)
- 12 slices bacon
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
Other Groceries:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 8 oz. can sliced water chestnuts
- 3/4 cup salted peanuts
- 1/2 cup thawed orange juice concentrate
- 24 wonton wrappers, preferably square
- 1 13-oz. jar Nutella (or other chocolate-hazelnut spread)
- 2 tsp. Grand Marnier
Pantry Staples:
- 3 cups vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup hoisin sauce
- 1 Tbs. dark brown sugar
- 4 tsp. rice vinegar
- 1/4 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- Confectioners’ sugar
- Kosher salt
