Introduction: Shrimp & Steak Fried Rice is a delightful fusion of surf and turf, combining tender steak and succulent shrimp with flavorful fried rice. This dish is perfect for those who love the rich, savory taste of steak paired with the delicate sweetness of shrimp. It’s a complete meal that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special weekend dinners. With a mix of vegetables, protein, and rice all in one dish, it’s a flavorful, hearty option that’s sure to become a favorite.
Overview of the Recipe: This Shrimp & Steak Fried Rice recipe is a delicious and satisfying one-pan meal that combines the savory flavors of marinated steak, juicy shrimp, and perfectly seasoned fried rice. The use of day-old cold rice ensures that the grains stay separate and firm, creating the perfect texture for fried rice. With vegetables like carrots, onions, and green onions adding color and crunch, and a simple soy sauce-based seasoning, this dish comes together quickly and is bursting with flavor. The addition of yum yum sauce for serving provides a creamy, slightly tangy contrast that elevates the whole meal.
History and Origin: Fried rice is a staple in many Asian cuisines, with its origins believed to date back to the Sui Dynasty in China. It was traditionally a way to use up leftover rice, and over time, it evolved into a popular dish with countless regional variations. Combining steak and shrimp with fried rice is a modern twist that brings together different culinary influences. The concept of “surf and turf,” pairing seafood with meat, is a well-loved combination in American cuisine, and integrating it into fried rice adds a new dimension to this classic dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12-15 raw shrimp, tail off and deveined
- 4 cups day-old cold cooked rice
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 tablespoons soy sauce, divided
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar, divided
- 4 tablespoons oil, divided
- Yum yum sauce (for serving)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Meat: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce with 1/2 tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Add this mixture to the ribeye steak pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated. Set the marinated steak aside. In another bowl, repeat the same process with the shrimp, using 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1/2 tablespoon of brown sugar. Allow both the steak and shrimp to marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Cook the Steak and Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated steak pieces. Cook the steak for about 1 minute per side, or until browned but still tender. Remove the steak from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the marinated shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and form a “C” shape. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside with the steak.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the pan. Toss in the chopped carrots and onions, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The vegetables should be tender but still have a slight crunch.
- Scramble the Eggs: Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the pan to create space for the eggs. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the empty space in the pan. Scramble the eggs by stirring them gently with a spatula until they are fully cooked and no longer runny. Once the eggs are cooked, mix them with the vegetables.
- Fry the Rice: Add the day-old cold rice to the pan, breaking it up with the spatula to ensure it combines well with the eggs and vegetables. Pour in the remaining 4 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the soy sauce mixture and is heated through.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked steak and shrimp to the pan, tossing them with the fried rice until everything is well mixed. Add the sliced green onions and give the dish a final stir. Serve the Shrimp & Steak Fried Rice hot, accompanied by a side of yum yum sauce for dipping or drizzling.
Serving: This recipe yields about 4 servings. Serve the Shrimp & Steak Fried Rice as a main course, accompanied by yum yum sauce, which adds a creamy and slightly tangy flavor that complements the savory fried rice. This dish can be served directly from the wok or skillet for a casual, family-style meal, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions: Shrimp & Steak Fried Rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a light Asian-inspired salad, such as a cucumber and sesame salad, or steamed broccoli with a drizzle of soy sauce. A bowl of miso soup or egg drop soup would also complement the meal nicely. For beverages, green tea, jasmine tea, or a refreshing glass of iced water with a slice of lemon are perfect choices to balance the richness of the dish.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Chicken and Shrimp Fried Rice: Substitute the steak with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Marinate and cook the chicken in the same way as the steak.
- Vegetarian Fried Rice: Omit the steak and shrimp, and add more vegetables like bell peppers, peas, and mushrooms. You can also add tofu for a protein boost.
- Spicy Fried Rice: Add 1-2 teaspoons of Sriracha or another hot sauce to the soy sauce mixture for a spicy kick. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the finished dish for extra heat.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: Add 1/2 cup of diced pineapple during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and tangy twist that pairs well with the shrimp and steak.
Health Benefits:
- High in Protein: This dish provides a good amount of protein from both the steak and shrimp, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables in this dish, including carrots and onions, provide vitamins A and C, as well as fiber.
- Customizable for Dietary Preferences: You can easily adjust this recipe to suit different dietary needs, such as using brown rice for added fiber or reducing the amount of oil to lower the fat content.
FAQs:
- Can I use frozen shrimp and steak? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and steak, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
- Can I use another type of rice? Absolutely! While day-old white rice is traditional, you can use brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of soy sauce if the rice seems dry.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the components of this dish ahead of time. Cook the steak, shrimp, and vegetables, and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, reheat everything in a skillet, add the rice, and fry as directed.
- Is yum yum sauce necessary? While not essential, yum yum sauce adds a delicious creamy and slightly tangy flavor that complements the savory notes of the fried rice. If you don’t have yum yum sauce, you can serve it with soy sauce or a simple mixture of mayonnaise and sriracha.
Conclusion: Shrimp & Steak Fried Rice is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special family meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With tender steak, succulent shrimp, and a delicious mix of vegetables and seasoned rice, it’s a complete meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The flexibility of the recipe allows for various adaptations to suit your preferences, making it a go-to dish in your culinary repertoire. Serve it with a side of yum yum sauce for an extra layer of flavor and enjoy the delicious combination of surf and turf in every bite.