Dive into the ultimate fusion of flavors with this mouthwatering Surf and Turf with Yellow Rice recipe. The rich and juicy combination of tender steak paired with succulent shrimp creates a symphony of land and sea on your plate. Accompanied by fragrant yellow rice, infused with earthy spices and vibrant color, this dish is a restaurant-quality meal that can easily be recreated at home. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or simply craving a decadent meal, this recipe will elevate your culinary game with minimal effort but maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Surf and Turf:
- Steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon): 2 steaks (6–8 oz each)
- Shrimp: 12 large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 3 cloves (minced)
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons (chopped)
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: to taste
- Pepper: to taste
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
For the Yellow Rice:
- Long-grain rice: 1 ½ cups
- Chicken broth: 3 cups
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
- Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
- Cumin: ½ teaspoon
- Saffron threads (optional): a pinch (for extra richness)
- Bay leaf: 1
- Salt: to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley: for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Yellow Rice
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Add minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, and bay leaf. Stir and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the rice and stir to coat the grains with the oil and spices. Pour in the chicken broth, add saffron threads (if using), and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and set aside. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
Step 2: Cook the Steak (Turf)
- Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side (adjust time for desired doneness).
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter and garlic to the skillet. Baste the steak with the melted butter using a spoon, cooking for another 1-2 minutes per side.
- Once done, remove steaks from the pan and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp (Surf)
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and lemon juice.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Step 4: Assemble the Surf and Turf with Yellow Rice
- Plate a portion of the yellow rice as the base.
- Add the sliced steak next to the rice and place the shrimp on top or beside the steak for a stunning presentation.
- Drizzle some of the butter sauce from the skillet over the steak and shrimp for extra flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve with lemon wedges for an extra zesty kick. Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.