STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY

A quick and flavorful STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. This dish features tender steak and juicy shrimp, combined with vibrant vegetables and a savory sauce that will delight your taste buds. It’s not only easy to make but also adaptable to various dietary preferences, making it suitable for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 20 minutes of prep, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the dish.
• Colorful Presentation: Bright bell peppers and fresh green onions not only add flavor but also make your plate look appealing.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, this stir fry is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To create this tasty STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY, gather some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for high-heat cooking, allowing for even cooking and quick stir-frying.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing vegetables and meat, ensuring precision.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes cutting meat and vegetables easier and safer.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee the right balance of flavors in the sauce.

Ingredients

To make this delicious STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Protein

• 1 pound flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
• 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Vegetables

• 1 bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot (julienned)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (minced)
• 2 green onions (chopped)

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish

How to Make STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping all of your ingredients. Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Chop the bell pepper, julienne the carrot, mince the garlic and ginger, and slice the green onions.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce and cornstarch. Add in the sliced steak, ensuring it is well coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you heat up your pan.

Step 3: Heat Up Your Wok

Place your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil once it’s hot. Swirl it around to coat evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Steak

Add the marinated steak to the hot pan in a single layer. Allow it to sear without stirring for about 2 minutes until browned. Then stir-fry for an additional minute until cooked through.

Step 5: Add Shrimp and Vegetables

Add the peeled shrimp along with broccoli florets, sliced bell pepper, julienned carrot, minced garlic, and ginger to the wok. Stir everything together quickly to combine.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

Continue to stir-fry everything for about 3-4 minutes until shrimp are pink and vegetables are tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper as desired.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving hot over rice or noodles if desired.

Enjoy your delightful STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY, bursting with flavor!

How to Serve STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY

Serving STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve your stir fry over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the savory sauce perfectly, enhancing each bite.

With Noodles

• Pair the stir fry with noodles, such as udon or rice noodles, for a different texture. Toss the noodles in a bit of soy sauce for added flavor.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the stir fry in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds a refreshing crunch and makes it fun to eat.

Topped with Sesame Seeds

• Garnish your dish with toasted sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and a nice visual appeal. It adds a nutty taste that complements the dish well.

With Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top to add brightness and freshness. This enhances the overall presentation and taste.

How to Perfect STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY

To achieve the best results with your STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY, follow these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh steak and shrimp will make your dish more flavorful. Choose quality produce for vibrant colors and textures.

• Slice steak correctly: Cut flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This ensures tenderness when cooked.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying, which affects texture.

• Pre-marinate your shrimp: Marinating shrimp briefly in soy sauce enhances their flavor and helps them absorb the seasoning better.

• Keep veggies crunchy: Stir-fry vegetables quickly over high heat to retain their crispness and bright colors.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste as you cook and adjust salt, pepper, or soy sauce according to your preference for a personal touch.

Best Side Dishes for STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY

Pairing side dishes with your STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY can enhance its flavors and create a complete meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is aromatic and complements the stir fry’s rich flavors beautifully.
2. Garlic Fried Rice: Add sautéed garlic to fried rice for an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with beef and shrimp.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables sautéed in garlic adds color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting contrast to the hearty stir fry.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar balances out the richness of the stir fry nicely.
6. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables offer a delightful crunch alongside your main dish.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs brings a nutty flavor that complements the stir fry’s taste profile.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like this stir fry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stir frying can be a quick and delightful cooking method, but many make common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using thick slices of meat – Thick slices of steak can make it tough to cook evenly. Always slice the flank steak thinly against the grain for tenderness.
• Overcrowding the pan – Adding too much food at once can lower the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of frying. Cook in smaller batches to achieve a nice sear.
• Skipping marination – Neglecting to marinate the meat can result in less flavor. A simple soy sauce mixture enhances the taste significantly, so take a few minutes to marinate.
• Ignoring vegetable prep – Prepping vegetables ahead of time is key. Having everything cut and ready helps maintain cooking flow and ensures even cooking.
• Not adjusting seasoning – Tasting during cooking is essential. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to get that perfect balance of flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the stir fry to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before freezing to maintain texture.

Reheating STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY:

Can I use other types of meat in STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY?

Yes! You can substitute flank steak with chicken, turkey, or even beef if desired.

What vegetables work best in STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY?

Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots are great choices. Feel free to mix your favorites!

How do I make STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Can I add more protein besides shrimp?

Absolutely! You can include additional proteins like chicken or tofu for more variety.

How long does it take to prepare STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY?

The total time is approximately 35 minutes: 20 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking.

Final Thoughts

This STEAK AND SHRIMP STIR FRY is not only quick but also versatile enough to adapt based on your preferences. Whether you want extra veggies or different proteins, feel free to experiment! Try this delicious recipe that promises both flavor and convenience tonight!