Introduction
When it comes to combining the best of land and sea, nothing compares to a classic surf and turf dish. The fusion of succulent beef steak and tender shrimp is a match made in culinary heaven, especially when paired with the satisfying slurp of noodles. This “Surf & Turf Noodles” recipe is a twist on traditional surf and turf, combining rich umami flavors with the texture and heartiness of egg noodles or ramen. Perfect for an indulgent yet balanced meal, this dish can be made in just 35 minutes and offers a satisfying blend of protein, vegetables, and carbs. Let’s dive into this savory masterpiece that’s sure to impress friends, family, or even yourself on a weeknight treat!
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles or ramen noodles
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For the Steak & Shrimp:
- 8 oz (225g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 8 oz (225g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (divided)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch fresh ginger, minced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 3 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional for a spicy kick)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions. Once the noodles are done, drain them well. Toss the cooked noodles with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to keep them from sticking together. This also adds a hint of nutty flavor. Set them aside and focus on preparing the steak and shrimp.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak & Shrimp
For the steak, toss the bite-sized cubes in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. In another bowl, marinate the shrimp using 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce. These brief marinades infuse the proteins with deep umami flavors. Let them sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables and sauces.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Steak
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak cubes and cook them for 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure they brown evenly. You’ll want the steak to be juicy on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the marinated shrimp and cook them for 2-3 minutes. They should turn a light pink and firm up once done. Like the steak, remove the shrimp and set them aside when cooked through.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Without cleaning the skillet, add the minced garlic, ginger, julienned carrots, and chopped green onions. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 2 minutes until they release their aromatic oils and soften slightly. This step builds a strong flavor base for the dish.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the noodles, steak, and shrimp to the skillet. Add the remaining soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and any optional sauce ingredients like honey or sriracha. Toss all the components together until the noodles are fully coated in sauce and everything is heated through.
Step 7: Serve
Once everything is well-combined, serve the Surf & Turf Noodles immediately. Garnish with extra green onions for a fresh, crunchy topping. The contrast of tender noodles, juicy steak, and succulent shrimp creates a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Notes
To ensure a balance of flavors, avoid overcooking either the steak or shrimp. The steak should retain some juiciness, while the shrimp should be tender, not rubbery. Using fresh garlic and ginger will greatly enhance the overall taste of this dish. If you prefer, the optional sauce can be customized to your liking—whether you enjoy a hint of sweetness from honey or an extra kick from sriracha.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a side of lightly dressed greens or a refreshing cucumber salad. You can also enjoy it with a chilled beverage like iced tea or a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc. For an extra Asian twist, try serving it alongside miso soup or a side of steamed edamame for added texture and variety.
Tips
- Marinate Early: If you have the time, marinate the steak and shrimp for up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Noodle Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different noodles—rice noodles, soba, or udon could all be excellent substitutions based on your dietary preferences.
- Garnish Creatively: In addition to green onions, sesame seeds or fresh cilantro make wonderful toppings. For extra crunch, try sprinkling some crushed peanuts on top.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: ~550 kcal
- Protein: ~32g
- Sodium: ~800mg (can vary based on sauce quantities)
Conclusion
The combination of land and sea in this Surf & Turf Noodles recipe is sure to elevate any meal. This dish brings together juicy steak, tender shrimp, and well-seasoned noodles in a rich, flavorful sauce. Quick enough to prepare on a weeknight but impressive enough for entertaining, this meal showcases a blend of textures and tastes that satisfy in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of steak, seafood, or hearty noodle dishes, this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use another type of meat instead of steak?
Certainly! Feel free to substitute the sirloin steak with chicken, pork, or even tofu if you prefer a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking times as needed.
Q2: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can easily make it gluten-free by swapping the noodles and sauces for gluten-free alternatives. Rice noodles and gluten-free soy or oyster sauce work perfectly.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components in advance. Cook the noodles and stir-fry the steak and shrimp, then combine everything just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
If you’re eager to explore a wider variety of mouthwatering recipes, you can click here to uncover a collection of dishes that suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to elevate your cooking experience!