Name: Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry
Prep time: 240 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Flank Steak; 1 lbs frozen Medium waterfront BISTRO Shrimp Raw Peeled & Deveined Tail Off; 8.5 oz Bens Original Jasmine Ready Rice Side Dish; 1 tsp olive oil for cooking; 1/3 cup Coconut Aminos (for seasoning); 1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard; 12 oz Stir-Fry Broccoli; 3 whole green onions, chopped; 1/2 cup Coconut Aminos; 1 Tbsp Toasted Sesame Oil; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 whole lime, juiced

Introduction to Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry

When the week gets busy, many young professionals find themselves leaning towards quick and flavorful meals – that’s where Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry shines. This dish offers not only a delightful combination of juicy flank steak and succulent shrimp, but it also packs a nutritional punch, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.

Why is steak and shrimp stir fry a go-to meal for young professionals? The answer lies in its versatility and speed. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes. That means more time to unwind after a long day or catch up on that favorite Netflix series.

Additionally, the vibrant vegetables and protein-rich ingredients fuel energy levels, which is crucial for maintaining productivity. Plus, you can customize the stir fry with whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a flexible option that suits your taste. Curious about the perfect pairing for your stir fry? Check out this thoughtful guide on selecting complementary side dishes here.

So, whether you're cooking for yourself or impressing friends, this steak and shrimp stir fry will become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Ingredients for Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry

Main ingredients

Creating a delicious Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry starts with gathering the right components. Here’s what you’ll need for a satisfying meal:

1.5 lbs. Flank Steak: This cut is perfect for stir-frying due to its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked properly.
1 lb. Medium Waterfront BISTRO Shrimp: Make sure they are raw, peeled, and deveined to save time in preparation.
1 package of Bens Original Jasmine Ready Rice: A convenient side that complements the stir fry beautifully.
1 tsp. Olive Oil: Essential for cooking the steak and enhancing flavors.
1 package of Stir-Fry Broccoli (12 oz.): You can also add any other vegetables you enjoy!
3 Green Onions, chopped: Fresh and vibrant, they add a finishing touch.

Steak marinade components

A flavorful marinade is key to elevating your dish. For the marinade, you'll need:

½ cup Coconut Aminos: A soy sauce alternative that adds umami without the gluten.
1 Tbsp. Toasted Sesame Oil: It brings a nutty essence.
1 tsp. Ground Ginger: A touch of warmth and spice.
1 tsp. Garlic Powder: For that aromatic, savory kick.
Juice of 1 Lime: It brightens and balances the flavors.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to a flavorful Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry! For more insights on the health benefits of incorporating shrimp into your diet, check out The Health Benefits of Shrimp.

Preparing Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry

Making a delicious Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry is simpler than you might think! Just follow these easy steps to create a meal that’s packed with flavor and great for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the preparation!

Marinate the steak

Start by slicing 1.5 lbs. of flank steak against the grain into strips. This technique helps in tenderizing the meat. In a resealable bag, combine the marinade ingredients: ½ cup of coconut aminos, 1 Tbsp. of toasted sesame oil, 1 tsp. of ground ginger, 1 tsp. of garlic powder, and the juice of 1 lime. Add the steak strips and ensure they are well-coated. Seal the bag and place it flat in the fridge for at least 4 hours or, if you can manage it, all day! This marinating time is essential for building rich flavors.

Defrost the shrimp

While your steak is soaking in those delicious flavors, it’s time to handle 1 lb. of frozen medium shrimp. Place them in a large bowl of warm (not hot) water. Let them sit until fully defrosted, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. You may need to drain and refill the bowl with warm water once or twice to speed up the process.

Cook the steak

Once the shrimp is defrosted, you can move on to cooking! Heat 1 tsp. of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the marinated steak, searing it for about 3 minutes on each side. You want a nice brown crust while keeping it juicy on the inside. After cooking, set the steak aside, leaving those flavorful juices in the pan.

Sauté the shrimp

Now, add the defrosted shrimp directly into the pan with the steak juices. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, which should take 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove the shrimp and place them on the same plate as the steak.

Prepare the vegetables

To keep things simple and healthy, I recommend using a 12 oz. package of stir-fry broccoli. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl with about half an inch of water and microwave for 3-5 minutes until it's tender but still crisp—aim for that al dente texture!

Cook the rice

While the veggies are steaming, grab the 8.5 oz. package of Ben's Original Jasmine Ready Rice and prepare it according to the package instructions. This will serve as the perfect base for your stir-fry.

Combine everything

Once everything is ready, let’s bring it all together! Pour the cooked rice into the pan with the steamed vegetables, and mix in ⅓ cup of coconut aminos and 1 Tbsp. of Dijon mustard. Stir in the cooked steak and shrimp, warming everything through. Top with freshly chopped green onions for a fresh crunch.

Now you have a delicious and vibrant Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry ready to serve! Enjoy your meal knowing it’s not only tasty but also packed with protein and rich flavors. Don't forget to check out some tips on perfecting your stir-fry techniques from experts at Serious Eats!

Variations on Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry

If you're drawn to the flavor-packed goodness of a classic steak and shrimp stir fry, you're in for a treat! But don't limit yourself; there are plenty of variations to suit every taste and dietary need.

Shrimp Stir Fry with Chicken

For a lighter twist, substitute chicken for steak and create a delicious shrimp stir fry with chicken. Simply follow the same marinade and cooking steps, but use bite-sized chicken breast or thighs instead. This variation maintains the vibrant flavors while offering a different protein boost.

Vegetarian Stir Fry Options

Craving a meat-free option? Try a vegetarian stir fry by skipping the steak and shrimp entirely. Load your pan with colorful veggies such as bell peppers, snow peas, and tofu. Marinate the tofu in the same savory sauce for an umami punch. You could also explore using plant-based shrimp alternatives if you want to keep that seafood flavor without the actual shellfish.

Explore more about cooking techniques and ingredient swaps on sites like AllRecipes or BBC Good Food, where you'll find endless inspiration to elevate your stir fry game!

Cooking Tips for Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry

Best Practices for Marinating

For the perfect stir fry, marinating your steak is key. Use a resealable bag to ensure that the marinade fully coats all surfaces of the meat. Aim for at least 4 hours in the fridge—longer is even better! Try this quick and easy steak marinade featuring coconut aminos and ginger for a flavorful kick. If you're looking for a deeper flavor, consider an overnight soak.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Steak

When it comes to cooking steak for your steak and shrimp stir fry, patience is vital. Heat your pan until it’s nice and hot, then add a splash of olive oil. Sear the steak on high heat for about 3 minutes per side—this creates that delicious crust while keeping the inside tender. Avoid overcooking; we want it juicy! For more insights on cooking meats, check out the USDA's guidelines.

Serving Suggestions for Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry

Ideal Side Dishes

Pair your Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry with light and complementary sides for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside:

Steamed Rice: The ready rice you’re using is perfect! You can also try jasmine or basmati rice for added flavor.
Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing offers a refreshing crunch.
Garlic Bread: This can be a nice contrast to the savory stir fry and is especially good if you want to soak up any sauce.

Presentation Ideas for the Dish

Make your Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry visually appealing! Here are some simple tips:

Serve in a Wok: Present your stir fry in a sizzling wok for a dramatic touch.
Garnish: Top with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh herbs to add a pop of color.
Color Contrast: Use a vibrant plate to highlight the rich colors of the shrimp, steak, and vegetables, enhancing the overall dining experience.

These small details will elevate your meal, turning it into an impressive feast for family or friends!

Time Breakdown for Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry

Preparation time
To kick things off, allow about 4 hours for marinating the flank steak. This step is crucial for enhancing flavor and ensuring tenderness. If you're in a rush, you could marinate it for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better!

Cooking time
When you’re ready to cook, expect a total of 20-25 minutes. This includes searing the steak and shrimp, steaming the broccoli, and combining everything in one flavorful stir fry.

Total time
So, if you combine both preparation and cooking times, the total time comes to approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes. Set aside a bit of time for the ultimate Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry experience!

Nutritional Facts for Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry

Calories

A satisfying serving of Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry packs around 476 calories. This makes it a great option for lunch or dinner, ensuring you get a filling meal without going overboard.

Protein

With a hearty 55 grams of protein per serving, this dish not only supports muscle repair but also keeps you feeling full for longer. It’s perfect for those looking to balance taste with healthy nutrition.

Sodium

On the flavor front, the dish contains about 1140 mg of sodium. While it adds richness to the stir fry, keep an eye on your overall sodium intake, especially if you're watching your salt consumption.

FAQs about Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry

How do I know when the steak is done?
Cooking steak to the perfect doneness involves a little finesse! For flank steak, a medium-rare finish is ideal, typically reaching an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy or press it lightly—if it’s firm yet still has some give, you’re in the sweet spot.

Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp can enhance the flavor and texture of your steak and shrimp stir fry. Just make sure they are raw, peeled, and deveined, similar to the frozen variety. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them to ensure they’re perfectly tender.

What are good vegetable options for stir fry?
The beauty of stir fry is its versatility! Great options include bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and bok choy. You can even mix in some leafy greens like spinach for an added nutrient boost. The key is to include a variety to make your dish colorful and healthy!

Conclusion on Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry

In summary, this Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry is a delicious one-pan meal that’s as nutritious as it is easy to prepare. With the right marinade and vibrant veggies, you’ll impress your taste buds and guests alike! Remember, cooking should be a joy, so enjoy the process! For further inspiration, check out more stir fry variations here and make the dish your own!