Surf and Turf Fried Rice Recipe

Looking to elevate your weeknight dinner with a dish that’s both comforting and impressive? Look no further than this flavorful Shrimp and Steak Fried Rice recipe. Transforming humble leftover rice into a gourmet meal, this dish strikes the perfect balance of protein-packed goodness and mouthwatering flavors.

Crafted to mimic the flavors of your favorite hibachi spot, this Shrimp and Steak Fried Rice has become a staple in my household, earning rave reviews from even the toughest critics – my teenagers. The key to success lies in using cold leftover rice, ensuring that each grain stays separate during the stir-frying process, resulting in that signature restaurant-quality texture we all crave.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe – swap the proteins, play with veggies, or even opt for a nuttier brown rice variation. Versatile and adaptable, this dish welcomes personal touches while delivering a satisfying and delicious experience. So, grab your wok and get ready to savor every bite of this homemade Shrimp and Steak Fried Rice masterpiece!

Quick Benefits

• Perfect Texture: Using day-old cold cooked rice ensures each grain stays separate during stir-frying, resulting in that distinct texture found in restaurant-quality fried rice.
• Versatile Recipe: You can easily adapt the dish by swapping out proteins like chicken, pork, or tofu, and incorporating different vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or snap peas based on what you have available.
• Balanced Flavors: The combination of soy sauce, sugars, and eggs creates a harmonious blend of sweetness and saltiness, offering a comforting and rich dining experience.
• Nutritious Variation: Opting for long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati adds a nuttier flavor and extra nutrients, making the dish not only delicious but also healthier.

Why You’ll Love This Surf and Turf Fried Rice Recipe Recipe

• Transforms Leftover Rice: This recipe turns humble leftover rice into a restaurant-quality meal, making it a great way to repurpose food.
• Packed with Protein and Flavor: With ribeye steak, shrimp, and eggs, this dish is a protein powerhouse that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out proteins, using different vegetables, or even opting for vegetarian alternatives like tofu.
• Authentic Texture: Using day-old refrigerated rice is crucial, as it ensures that each grain separates during stir-frying, giving you that distinct restaurant-quality texture.
• Family Favorite: This dish is so beloved that the creator’s family requests it at least twice a month, guaranteeing it’s a crowd-pleaser.
• Balanced Sweetness and Saltiness: You can adjust the soy sauce and sugar amounts to tailor the dish to your preferred level of sweetness and saltiness.
• Complete Experience: Pair this fried rice with miso soup and a cucumber salad for a well-rounded meal that balances rich and savory flavors with cool, crisp freshness.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve the dish in a large communal bowl garnished with green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds for an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients for Surf and Turf Fried Rice Recipe

Protein

• 1 ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12-15 raw shrimp, tail off and deveined

Grains

• 4 cups day-old cold cooked rice

Vegetables

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped onion

Seasonings and Sauces

• 1 tbsp brown sugar, divided
• 5 tbsp soy sauce, divided
• 1 tbsp sugar

Other

• 4 tbsp oil, divided
• 3 eggs, lightly beaten
• Yum Yum sauce for serving

Pro Tips for Surf and Turf Fried Rice Recipe

Pro Tip 1: Always use day-old cooked rice stored in the fridge for the best texture in your fried rice. The slightly dry grains separate easily during stir-frying, preventing clumping and mushiness.

Pro Tip 2: Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite proteins like chicken, pork, or tofu. You can also experiment with different vegetables or rice varieties to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Pro Tip 3: Balancing the sweet and salty flavors is key in this dish. Adjust the amount of soy sauce and sugars to achieve the perfect taste for you. Don’t forget to add eggs for protein and richness, and consider adding extra veggies like peas or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

How to Make Surf and Turf Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Marinate Steak

Mix steak pieces with 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1/2 tbsp brown sugar, then set aside.

Step 2: Marinate Shrimp

Mix 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar with the shrimp, then set aside.

Step 3: Cook Steak

In a large wok or skillet, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Cook steak for 1 minute on each side until browned, then remove from the pan.

Step 4: Cook Shrimp

In the same pan, cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they curl into a ‘C’ shape. Remove from pan.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

Drizzle remaining oil in the pan. Sauté carrots and onions for 3-4 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Push vegetables to one side of the pan.

Step 6: Scramble Eggs

Scramble eggs in the empty side of the pan until done.

Step 7: Add Rice and Sauce

Add cold rice to the pan and break up any clumps using a spatula. Stir in the remaining soy sauce and sugar.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked shrimp and steak back to the pan, then mix in the green onions.

Step 9: Serve

Serve the fried rice alongside Yum Yum sauce.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Shrimp and Steak Fried Rice, ensure any leftovers are promptly cooled to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. The rice should be refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, but it’s best enjoyed within the first 2 days for optimal flavor and texture.

When reheating the fried rice, it’s recommended to use a skillet or wok over medium heat. Adding a splash of water or broth while gently stirring the rice helps prevent it from drying out. Make sure to heat the rice thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving to ensure it’s safe to eat. Repeated reheating is not advised, as it can lead to a decline in quality.

For longer storage, the fried rice can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, allow the rice to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it using the stovetop method mentioned above. Freezing may alter the texture slightly, but it’s a convenient option for meal prep or saving leftovers for future quick and delicious meals.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this recipe vegetarian, tofu is a great substitute for the steak and shrimp. Marinate firm tofu in the same sauce mixture for a delicious alternative packed with protein.

For those with dietary restrictions or personal preferences, jasmine or basmati rice can be used instead of the long-grain rice. These varieties will still provide a fluffy and non-sticky texture, perfect for fried rice.

If you’re not a fan of the yum yum sauce, a simple mix of sriracha and mayonnaise can be a tasty substitute that adds a nice touch of heat to the dish. This alternative sauce complements the flavors of the fried rice and can be a flavorful addition to the meal.

Serving Suggestions

Transform your shrimp and steak fried rice into an impressive meal by serving it in a large communal bowl garnished with additional green onions, cilantro leaves, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. The vibrant colors and textures will make this dish a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Pair it with a simple miso soup and cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil to create a well-rounded dining experience that balances the rich, savory flavors of the rice with the cool, crisp freshness of the salad.

For a fun twist on presentation, consider serving individual portions of the shrimp and steak fried rice in hollowed-out pineapple halves. The sweet and juicy pineapple adds a tropical touch to the dish and complements the savory flavors of the rice beautifully. Top each serving with a drizzle of yum yum sauce or a dollop of sriracha mayo for an extra burst of flavor. This creative presentation will elevate your meal to a restaurant-quality dining experience that is sure to impress your family and guests.

FAQs for Surf and Turf Fried Rice Recipe

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?

Using day-old refrigerated rice is non-negotiable for authentic fried rice. Fresh rice contains too much moisture, which can result in a clumpy and mushy texture. If you must use fresh rice, spread it on a baking sheet and refrigerate it uncovered for at least 4 hours before using.

Can I substitute the shrimp or steak with other proteins?

Yes, you can substitute the shrimp or steak with chicken, pork, or tofu to suit your preference. Each protein will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.

What type of rice is best for making fried rice?

Long-grain rice, like jasmine or basmati, is ideal for making fried rice because it stays fluffy and non-sticky when cooked. This type of rice helps maintain the distinct texture of each grain in the fried rice.

Can I customize the sweetness and saltiness of the dish?

Absolutely! You can balance the sweetness and saltiness of the dish by tweaking the amounts of soy sauce and sugars to fit your taste preferences. Feel free to adjust these seasonings to create the perfect flavor profile for your fried rice.

Conclusion

As you embark on creating your own version of Shrimp and Steak Fried Rice, remember that cooking is all about making it your own. Feel free to experiment with different proteins, veggies, or even grains to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and ability to adapt to what you have on hand.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and let the aromas of sizzling shrimp, tender steak, and flavorful rice fill your kitchen. With each stir of the wok, you’re not just cooking a meal – you’re creating a culinary experience that brings joy and satisfaction to your table. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones, Shrimp and Steak Fried Rice is a dish that never fails to impress and delight. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and share the love through every bite of this delicious homemade masterpiece.