Introduction

Spice up your weeknight dinners with a delicious plate of Steak & Shrimp Stir-Fried Noodles. This vibrant dish brings together tender steak and juicy shrimp, all nestled among silky noodles and fresh vegetables. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it's perfect for home cooks looking to create something special without spending all evening in the kitchen.

The harmony of the ingredients and the rich sauces transform simple stir-frying into an art. As the noodles soak up the savory goodness from the steak and shrimp, each bite delivers a delightful taste experience. Whether it's for a special occasion or simply to please your tastebuds, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

8 oz. flat rice noodles
These noodles are ideal for stir-frying due to their wide shape and ability to absorb flavors. They provide a perfect base for the dish, allowing the sauces to cling beautifully.
8 oz. sirloin steak
Choosing a tender cut like sirloin ensures a flavorful and juicy texture. When sliced thinly against the grain, it cooks quickly and adds a rich, meaty depth to the dish.
8 oz. shrimp, peeled and deveined
Shrimp cooks very quickly and adds a wonderful sweetness to the stir-fry. They provide a contrast to the beef and enhance the overall richness of the flavor profile.
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snow peas)
Fresh vegetables add color and crunch, contributing not only visual appeal but also essential vitamins and minerals. They balance out the richness of the noodles and protein.
3 tbsp soy sauce
Soy sauce is a fundamental ingredient in stir-frying, providing the umami flavor that enhances the taste of the meat and noodles. It also adds a savory depth to the dish.
2 tbsp oyster sauce
The inclusion of oyster sauce creates a sweet and savory glaze on the noodles, bringing additional complexity to the flavor while helping to unify all the elements.
1 tbsp cornstarch
Cornstarch is often used to marinate the meat and give it a velvety texture. It creates a light coating that traps moisture and flavor within the steak and shrimp.
2 tbsp vegetable oil
Using vegetable oil for stir-frying allows for high-heat cooking without burning. It helps achieve that signature sizzling effect while infusing a subtle richness.
2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic adds a fragrant note to the dish, contributing to the overall aroma and enhancing the taste of the meat and vegetables.
1 tsp ginger, minced
Fresh ginger gives a zesty kick and a slight warmth, balancing the dish's sweetness and contributing to its aromatic profile.
1 green onion, sliced
Green onions offer a fresh and slightly sharp taste that garnishes the dish beautifully, adding a pop of color and flavor right at the end.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Cook the noodles according to package instructions.

First, preparing the rice noodles is crucial. They typically require soaking in hot water which allows them to become pliable. Be sure to drain them well and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking, setting the stage for a smooth stir-fry.

Step 2: Marinate the steak in cornstarch, soy sauce, and a bit of vegetable oil.

This step helps tenderize the steak while allowing fried ingredients to adhere to the meat better. Cornstarch forms a protective cloak that keeps moisture in and creates a nice sear when cooked.

Step 3: Heat a wok or a large pan over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil.

Ensure your pan is very hot before adding oil to achieve that sought-after stir-fry sizzle. The high heat will sear the meat quickly, locking in flavors and juices.

Step 4: Add the marinated steak to the pan and stir-fry until browned, about 2-3 minutes.

As you cook the steak, be mindful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing. You want each piece to get a nice color and caramelization.

Step 5: Add the shrimp to the pan and cook until they turn pink, about 2 minutes.

Shrimp cooks very quickly; adding them after the steak allows both proteins to retain their juiciness. Watch for them to turn opaque to indicate they’re done.

Step 6: Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.

Adding garlic and ginger at this stage ensures they soften and release their aromatic oils without burning. This step enhances the flavors profoundly and makes the kitchen smell wonderful.

Step 7: Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.

Cooking the vegetables just enough leaves them crisp yet tender, allowing their natural sweetness to emerge while retaining their vibrant colors.

Step 8: Add the cooked noodles to the pan, followed by soy sauce and oyster sauce.

This step is key; ensuring every strand of noodle is coated in the sauce leads to enhanced flavor. The heat helps the noodles absorb the sauce, making them deliciously savory.

Step 9: Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Final garnishing with green onions adds freshness and a color pop. They balance out the rich flavors from the sauces and proteins, completing the dish aesthetically and taste-wise.

Steak & Shrimp Stir-Fried Noodles step photo

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting high-quality ingredients makes a significant difference in this stir-fried noodle dish. Opt for fresh shrimp and tender cuts of steak such as sirloin or flank steak. Using seasonal vegetables also ensures optimal flavor and crunch, making your stir fry not only delicious but also vibrant and appealing.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Stir-frying is all about high heat and quick cooking. Keeping your ingredients moving ensures they cook evenly while preventing sticking or burning. Investing in a good wok (or a heavy skillet) can elevate your stir-frying game, allowing you to achieve that sought-after smoky flavor and char that defines many Asian noodle dishes.

Elevating Your Flavor Profile

While soy and oyster sauces are traditional, experimenting with flavors can add a personal touch. Consider adding a dash of chili paste or sesame oil for an extra dimension. Finish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish beyond classic stir-fry.

FAQs

What should I do if my sauce turns out too thick?

If the sauce is too thick, gradually add a bit of water or broth while stirring over low heat until you reach the desired consistency. Be cautious not to dilute the flavor.

How can I adjust the portion size for a family?

To scale this recipe for a family, simply multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings you need, keeping the same ratios for flavors to ensure balance.

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute flat rice noodles with other types like udon or egg noodles. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

What if my steak turns out overcooked?

If your steak is overcooked, adding it back to the stir-fry briefly with some broth can help rejuvenate it, but it's best to cook it on high heat briefly to avoid this in the first place.

Can I prepare this dish without shrimp?

Absolutely! You can omit shrimp or substitute it with another protein such as chicken, tofu, or even additional steak.

How do I make my stir fry less salty?

If your dish becomes too salty, adding neutral ingredients like more vegetables or a splash of unsweetened coconut milk can help balance the flavors.

Conclusion

Steak & Shrimp Stir-Fried Noodles offers a wonderful canvas for flavor and texture that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The delightful interplay of juicy meat and tender shrimp delivers a culinary treat that’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.

With a touch of creativity and attention to technique, you can craft this dish to your liking. As you enjoy your meal, remember that cooking is about experimentation and finding joy in creating something delicious.

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