Seared Scallops with Caramelized Salsify, Burnt Onions, Chickweed and Apple Gastrique

steps

For Burnt Onions

1. Peel onion and thinly slice one half. Place in 350-degree oven until dry and completely burned.
2. Using a spice grinder, grind into a fine powder.
3. Take other half of onion and char in a very hot cast iron pan, then cook through in hot oven. Let cool and slice into small wedges.

For Apple Gastrique

1. Reduce apple cider over medium-high heat until it becomes thick and syrupy.
2. Add cider vinegar to thin out syrup.

For Salsify

1. Slice salsify into ¼-inch segments and caramelize in 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat, basting occasionally until fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes.

For Scallops

1. Sear scallops in a hot pan until golden brown.
2. Use remaining butter and baste until fully cooked (about 4 minutes for sea scallops) and about 2 minutes for bay scallops.

To Assemble

1. Place a spoonful of apple gastrique on center of plate, then top with 2 sea scallops or 4 bay scallops.
2. Arrange charred onions, salsify, and dried burnt onion powder on plate as desired.
3. Garnish with chickweed leaves and serve immediately.