Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this flavorful fusion of tender steak, succulent shrimp, and perfectly cooked stir-fry noodles. Each bite is a harmonious balance of textures and rich, savory flavors, making it an irresistible dinner option.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something impressive for a weekend gathering, this recipe delivers both ease and elegance. Packed with vibrant vegetables and seasoned to perfection, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as satisfying to eat as it is easy to prepare.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz flank steak, thinly sliced
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz stir-fry noodles (lo mein or yakisoba)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Directions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Cook stir-fry noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Cook Steak: Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak slices and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: In the same pan, add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the remaining vegetable oil to the pan. Sauté garlic, onion, bell pepper, and broccoli for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the steak and shrimp to the pan. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together to coat evenly and heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal (per serving) | Servings: 4
History and Cultural Background
Stir-fried noodles are a staple in many Asian cuisines, celebrated for their versatility and rich flavor profiles. This recipe draws inspiration from Chinese stir-fry techniques, where quick cooking over high heat locks in the flavors of the ingredients while maintaining their textures. The addition of steak and shrimp offers a luxurious surf-and-turf twist, elevating this classic dish into something truly special. Whether you’re familiar with lo mein or yakisoba, this recipe provides a seamless fusion of hearty and fresh elements that appeals to a global audience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Balanced and Nutritious: Packed with protein from steak and shrimp, plus a variety of vibrant vegetables, it’s a wholesome meal in one pan.
- Customizable: Swap out vegetables based on seasonality or preferences, or use gluten-free noodles for dietary adaptations.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a hit with both adults and kids, making it ideal for family dinners or casual entertaining.
Ingredient Highlights
- Flank Steak: Known for its bold flavor and tender texture when cooked correctly, it’s the perfect choice for stir-frying.
- Shrimp: Adds a juicy and slightly sweet contrast to the savory steak.
- Stir-Fry Noodles: Lo mein or yakisoba noodles work wonderfully, absorbing the savory sauces while staying chewy.
- Soy and Oyster Sauces: These classic Asian condiments provide umami depth and a slightly sweet finish.
- Sesame Oil: Adds an aromatic nuttiness that ties the dish together.
Cooking Tips
- Slice Steak Thinly: Ensure even cooking by slicing the steak against the grain into thin strips.
- Use High Heat: A hot wok or skillet is essential for achieving the signature smoky flavor of stir-fry dishes.
- Prep Ahead: Have all ingredients chopped and ready to go before you start cooking, as stir-frying happens quickly.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the steak and shrimp in batches to ensure they sear properly without steaming.
Pairing Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with a crisp Asian cucumber salad or steamed dumplings for a full meal experience.
- Drinks: Pair with a chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or an iced jasmine tea.
- Condiments: A drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts can add extra layers of flavor and texture.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Option: Replace steak and shrimp with tofu or tempeh and increase the vegetable variety for a plant-based version.
- Spicy Twist: Add sliced chilies or Sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Swap out noodles for zucchini or spaghetti squash noodles.
Interesting Fact
Did you know stir-frying originated in China over 2,000 years ago? The method became popular due to its energy efficiency when fuel was scarce. It’s a testament to how culinary techniques evolve with practicality, making it timelessly appealing.
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Health Benefits of Steak & Shrimp Stir-Fried Noodles
This dish isn’t just about indulgence; it’s packed with nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet:
- Protein Powerhouse: The combination of steak and shrimp provides a high-quality protein source, which helps with muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The vibrant mix of vegetables offers essential vitamins like A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium.
- Energy Boost: The noodles serve as an excellent carbohydrate source to fuel your day, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Equipment You’ll Need
To make this dish, ensure you have the following kitchen tools:
- Wok or Large Skillet: The high sides and wide surface make stir-frying effortless.
- Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing the steak and vegetables thinly for quick cooking.
- Tongs or Spatula: Perfect for tossing the ingredients without breaking the noodles.
What Makes This Recipe Unique
- Flavor Layers: The recipe combines the bold umami of soy and oyster sauces with the nuttiness of sesame oil, creating a deep, satisfying flavor.
- Texture Harmony: The tender steak, juicy shrimp, chewy noodles, and crisp vegetables create a perfect balance of textures.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything comes together in a single pan, making cleanup easy and stress-free.
How to Serve
- Serve the dish immediately while it’s hot and fresh.
- Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a professional finish.
- Accompany with steamed jasmine rice or a side of spring rolls for a restaurant-quality dining experience at home.
Common Questions About the Recipe
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the noodles are gluten-free. - Can I substitute other proteins?
Absolutely. Chicken, pork, or tofu work wonderfully in place of steak or shrimp. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet for the best results. - What vegetables can I add?
Snow peas, carrots, bok choy, or mushrooms are great additions or substitutions for the vegetables in the recipe.
Occasions to Enjoy This Recipe
This versatile dish fits almost any occasion:
- Weeknight Dinners: Quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
- Family Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to scale up for larger groups.
- Meal Prep: Makes great leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.
- Special Treats: Impress guests with the restaurant-style quality of this dish.
Cultural Inspiration
This recipe is a fusion of flavors inspired by Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisine. It reflects the cultural tradition of stir-frying, which focuses on cooking fresh, seasonal ingredients quickly over high heat to preserve their natural flavors and nutrients. The surf-and-turf element adds a Western twist, creating a dish that is both familiar and exotic.
Conclusion
Steak & Shrimp Stir-Fried Noodles is a delicious fusion dish that combines the best of land and sea, delivering bold flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. With its quick preparation, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly seasoned noodles, this recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing guests on the weekend, this versatile dish will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Its adaptability to dietary preferences and the ease of preparation make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. So grab your wok, get creative with your vegetables, and enjoy the rich, savory delight of homemade Steak & Shrimp Stir-Fried Noodles.
This dish isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience that brings the joy of flavorful, home-cooked meals to your table. Perfect for sharing, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your household!