There’s nothing quite like the satisfying sizzle of steak and shrimp dancing in a hot pan, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. When I first created my Quick Low-Carb Shrimp and Flank Steak Stir Fry, I wanted to capture the essence of a gourmet restaurant right in my own home — all in just 20 minutes. This dish is an exciting fusion, bringing together the tender smokiness of flank steak and the sweet juiciness of shrimp, all enveloped in a rich, homemade soy-based sauce. Perfect for those busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress at a dinner gathering, this stir fry proves that wholesome, delicious meals don’t have to be complicated.
Whether you’re a passionate home cook or someone simply weary of fast food, this Asian Surf and Turf recipe is a delightful way to elevate your dining experience. Filled with vibrant flavors and textures, it strikes the perfect balance between convenience and culinary flair. Let’s dive into the enticing world of quick stir-frying!
Why will you love Asian Surf And Turf?
Quick preparation: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Rich flavors: The combination of smoky flank steak and succulent shrimp, drizzled in a homemade soy sauce, creates a harmonious blend that delights the palate.
Low-carb goodness: Enjoy a delicious meal without the carbs—perfect for those adhering to low-carb diets.
Show-stopping dish: Impress family and friends with this gourmet-like creation that looks as good as it tastes.
Customizable: Easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, ensuring you can adapt it to what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
Wholesome alternative: Ditch the fast food and treat yourself to a satisfying, homemade meal that nourishes both the body and soul!
Asian Surf And Turf Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
• Flank Steak – Choose high-quality flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Fresh Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience and that sweet, succulent flavor.
• Corn Starch – Essential for moisture retention in the meat; don’t skip this crucial step for juicy results.
• Cooking Oil – A neutral oil like canola or vegetable works best for sautéing without overpowering the flavors.
• Scallions – Add a fresh, mild onion flavor; finely slice them for garnish that pops visually and tastefully.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides a savory umami flavor while keeping sodium in check; try coconut aminos for a gluten-free twist.
• Sugar/Swerve Sweetener – Balances flavors with just the right amount of sweetness; Swerve is a great low-carb alternative.
• Minced Fresh Ginger – Brings a zingy warmth; opt for fresh over dried for the best flavor depth.
• Minced Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced enhances the aromatic richness of your stir fry.
• Ground Black Pepper – Offers subtle heat; adjust to suit your taste for a perfectly seasoned dish.
For Serving
• Cauliflower Rice or Zucchini Noodles – Serve alongside these low-carb alternatives for a complete meal.
• Extra Vegetables (Optional) – Consider adding bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
Dive into this simple yet elegant Asian Surf and Turf experience that’s ready in no time!
How to Make Asian Surf And Turf
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Prepare the steak: Pat 1 lb of flank steak dry and slice it against the grain into 1/4 inch strips. Coat the strips with 1 tablespoon of corn starch for moisture retention.
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Prepare the shrimp: Peel and devein 1 lb of shrimp, then pat them dry and set aside. This step is key to achieving that perfect sear.
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Make the sauce: In a saucepan, combine 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sugar or Swerve sweetener, 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger, 2 cloves minced fresh garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes until fragrant.
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Cook the steak: Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the steak, cooking for about 3-4 minutes or until just browned. Transfer the cooked steak to a plate.
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Cook the shrimp: In the same pan, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
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Finish & serve: Return the steak to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir gently for a minute until everything is well-coated. Mix in 2-3 finely sliced scallions and serve immediately with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Optional: Garnish with additional scallions for an extra pop of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Asian Surf And Turf
Customize your stir fry to suit your taste and pantry with these delightful ideas!
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Different Proteins: Swap flank steak for sirloin or skirt steak for a different texture and flavor. You can also use firm tofu or chicken for a plant-based or poultry option.
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Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to amp up the nutrition and add vibrant colors to your dish. Each adds a satisfying crunch that complements the tender proteins beautifully.
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Heat It Up: If you enjoy a little kick, add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a zesty twist. The heat will awaken your taste buds, giving the dish an exciting flavor profile.
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Herbaceous Boost: Include fresh cilantro or basil as a garnish for a refreshing herbal note that brightens up every bite. These herbs introduce an aromatic quality that enhances the overall experience.
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Soy Sauce Alternatives: For gluten-free options, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of low-sodium soy sauce. Both provide a similar savory depth without compromising flavor.
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Sweetener Substitutes: Experiment with different low-carb sweeteners, like erythritol or monk fruit, depending on your preference. Each offers a slightly different flavor nuance that can change the essence of your sauce.
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Nutty Flavor: Add a splash of sesame oil for a deliciously nutty finish to your stir fry. Just a small amount goes a long way in enhancing the aroma and flavor complexity.
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Citrus Zing: Finish your dish with a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice. The acidity brightens the rich flavors, making the entire dish feel lighter and more refreshing.
How to Store and Freeze Asian Surf And Turf
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without drying out the shrimp or steak.
Meal Prep: Consider portioning out servings before freezing, making it easy to grab a quick, healthy meal anytime!
What to Serve with Quick Low-Carb Shrimp and Flank Steak Stir Fry?
Creating the perfect meal is all about balance—bring your dinner table to life with complementary flavors and textures!
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Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative perfectly soaks up the savory sauce, making it a wonderful side to your stir fry.
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Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, these noodles provide a satisfying bite and a lovely presentation against colorful shrimp and steak.
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Steamed Broccoli: With its crunch and bright green hue, broccoli adds a nutritional punch and enhances the meal’s healthiness.
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Stir-Fried Snow Peas: Their sweet, crisp texture adds variety alongside the tender proteins, offering a refreshing contrast in every bite.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup rounds out the meal beautifully, providing umami depth and a cozy touch.
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Green Salad with Sesame Dressing: Fresh greens tossed in a light sesame dressing refresh the palate and balance the dish’s richness.
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Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water: Opt for a light, chilled white wine to enhance the meal’s flavors, or serve refreshing sparkling water to keep it light.
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Asian-Inspired Coconut Flan: For dessert, this creamy treat is a delightful way to finish your meal with a touch of sweetness.
Expert Tips for Asian Surf And Turf
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Slice Against the Grain: Always slice flank steak against the grain to achieve maximum tenderness, ensuring your dish is easy to chew and delightful to eat.
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Don’t Skip Corn Starch: Coating the steak in corn starch is essential for moisture retention during cooking. This step guarantees succulent results and prevents dryness.
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Watch Your Timing: Stir-frying is quick; avoid overcooking the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy. A few minutes per side is all you need for perfectly cooked shrimp.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to the stir fry for added color and nutrition, enhancing your Asian surf and turf experience.
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Serve Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, serve your stir fry immediately after cooking. This way, the ingredients maintain their vibrant freshness and deliciousness.
Make Ahead Options
These Asian Surf and Turf ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the flank steak and shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. To ensure the shrimp remains juicy, pat them dry and store them chilled. You can also have the sauce ready; simply combine the soy sauce, sweetener, ginger, garlic, and pepper before storing in the fridge. When ready to cook, heat oil in your pan, sauté the prepped steak, quickly cook the shrimp, and finish with the sauce for a delicious, stress-free meal that tastes just as fresh as when you first made it!
Asian Surf And Turf Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best flank steak for my stir fry?
Absolutely! Look for flank steak that is bright red and has minimal fat. A well-marbled piece will offer the best flavor and tenderness. Make sure it feels firm to the touch and has no dark spots or discoloration, which indicate spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of this dish?
After cooking, let the stir fry cool down first, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, warm it over low heat on the stove. Stir gently to ensure that you don’t overcook the shrimp, which can become rubbery.
Can I freeze the Asian Surf And Turf?
Definitely! To freeze, transfer the cooled stir fry into airtight freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
What if my shrimp are overcooked?
Very common! If your shrimp happens to be overcooked, they may become tough and rubbery. To avoid this, make sure you cook them just until they turn pink—about 2-3 minutes total is usually perfect. If they do end up overcooked, consider tossing the finished dish with some extra sauce or seasonings when serving to enhance moisture and flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For those following a low-carb diet, this dish is great since it contains only about 10g of net carbs per serving. If you’re preparing for someone with soy allergies, substitute the low-sodium soy sauce with coconut aminos. You can also use a sugar alternative like Swerve to keep it sugar-free. Just make sure to always double-check ingredient labels for any allergies or dietary restrictions.
Asian Surf And Turf: Quick Shrimp and Steak Stir Fry Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat flank steak dry and slice it against the grain into 1/4 inch strips. Coat the strips with corn starch.
- Peel and devein shrimp, then pat them dry and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, sugar or Swerve, minced ginger, minced garlic, and ground black pepper. Bring to a simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Heat cooking oil in a large pan, add steak and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same pan, add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink, flipping halfway through.
- Return steak to the pan, pour in the sauce, stir gently for a minute, mix in scallions, and serve immediately.