Seared Nantucket Scallops in Kiwi Curry Sauce

Make compote:

Melt butter in large skillet over medium heat. Add fennel; sauté until tender, about 12 minutes. Add stock, sugar and lemon. Simmer until fennel is very tender and mixture is thick, stirring often, about 20 minutes. This can be made 1 day ahead; chill.

Make sauce:

Boil first 7 ingredients in medium saucepan until liquid is reduced to ¾ cup, about 20 minutes. Add cream; boil until liquid is reduced to ¾ cup, about 5 minutes. Strain sauce into small saucepan. Bring to simmer. Remove from heat. Gradually add 5 tablespoons butter, whisking just until melted. Season with salt and pepper.

Melt remaining 2 tablespoon butter in heavy large skillet over high heat. Melt and place sprig of fresh thyme in pan. Dry scallops and season scallops with salt and white pepper. Add to skillet and sauté until cooked through, about 3 minutes per side.

Rewarm fennel. Divide among 8 plates. Surround with scallops, dust scallops with Baby Swiss cheese. Spoon sauce around scallops.