Steak and shrimp noodles with fried rice can provide a variety of health and nutritional benefits when prepared with the right ingredients and in moderation. Here are some potential benefits:
1. Protein: Both steak and shrimp are excellent sources of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails.
2. Vitamins and minerals: This dish can provide various vitamins and minerals depending on the ingredients used. For example, steak contains iron, zinc, and B vitamins, while shrimp is a good source of selenium, vitamin D, and B vitamins. Adding vegetables to the dish can further enhance its nutrient profile.
3. Omega-3 fatty acids: Shrimp is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to numerous health benefits. Omega-3s can support heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function.
4. Fiber: If the dish includes whole-grain rice or noodles and plenty of vegetables, it can be a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and promotes feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management.
5. Antioxidants: Vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots commonly found in stir-fried dishes are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect the body against free radicals, which can cause cellular damage and contribute to chronic diseases.
It’s important to note that the overall healthiness of this dish can be influenced by factors such as cooking methods, portion sizes, and the amount of added fats and sodium. To maximize the benefits, consider using lean cuts of steak, opting for whole-grain rice or noodles, incorporating a variety of vegetables, and using healthy cooking methods such as stir-frying with minimal oil. Also, be mindful of portion sizes and balance this dish with other nutrient-dense foods as part of a well-rounded diet.
Steak and Shrimp Noodles with Fried Rice
Ingredients:
For The Noodles
▢7 ounces dry thin rice vermicelli noodles (200 g)
▢1 teaspoon vegetable oil
▢2 teaspoons dark soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
For The Shrimp
▢7 ounces shrimp (200 g, cleaned and deveined)
▢2 teaspoons cornstarch
▢1 tablespoon oyster sauce
▢1 tablespoon shaoxing wine (or white wine vinegar)
▢¼ teaspoon white pepper powder
▢1 teaspoon curry powder (optional)
▢1 teaspoon vegetable oil
For The Rest Of The Recipe
▢3 tablespoons vegetable oil
▢2 tablespoons julienned ginger (julienned)
▢4-5 shallots (thinly sliced)
▢1 medium carrot (julienned)
▢5 ounce green cabbage (150 g, shredded)
▢2 scallions (green onions) (cut into 2 inch pieces)
▢1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (use tamari for gluten free)
▢½ teaspoon sesame oil
▢¼ teaspoon white pepper powder
▢½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Prepare The Noodles
Cook the noodles as per the instructions on the back of the package. To test whether or not they’ve been cooked enough, take a noodle and chew on it to make sure it’s no longer dry.
Rinse the noodles with cold water to stop the cooking process otherwise, they will become mushy.
Drain thoroughly to get rid of excess water.
In a large bowl, mix the noodles with vegetable oil and soy sauce until evenly coated. Set aside.
Prepare The Shrimp
Add shrimp to a medium mixing bowl, along with cornstarch, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, white pepper powder, curry powder, and vegetable oil. Marinate for 20 minutes.
Stir- Fry The Noodles
Gather all the ingredients before stir-frying the noodles. We need to cook them on high heat with ingredients going into the wok one after the other.
Heat a large wok on high heat until very hot.
Add oil and once the hot is hot and shimmery, add ginger and shallots. Stir-fry for 10 seconds.
Add the marinated shrimp along with the marinade and cook for 3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and almost cooked, stirring frequently.
Now add carrot, cabbage, and scallions, and stir-fry for another 30 seconds.
Add soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper powder, and salt, and mix everything well.
Finally, add the prepared noodles and stir-fry everything together to heat the noodles through and distribute the shrimp and vegetables.
Check for salt and sauces and add more as per your taste.
Serve hot.
Certainly! Here are some tips for preparing steak and shrimp noodles with fried rice:
1. Choose high-quality ingredients: Select fresh, high-quality steak and shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Look for steak cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin, and opt for wild-caught or sustainably sourced shrimp.
2. Marinate the steak and shrimp: Marinating the steak and shrimp adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat. You can use a simple marinade with ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey or brown sugar.
3. Prep the ingredients in advance: Before starting to cook, make sure to have all the ingredients prepped and ready to go. Chop the vegetables, mince the garlic and ginger, and measure out the sauces and spices. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
4. Cook the steak and shrimp separately: To ensure optimal cooking and prevent overcooking, cook the steak and shrimp separately. Sear the steak in a hot skillet or grill to your desired level of doneness, and sauté the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque.
5. Stir-fry the vegetables: Heat a wok or large skillet with a small amount of oil over high heat. Add your choice of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms. Stir-fry them quickly until they’re crisp-tender to retain their nutrients and vibrant colors.
6. Use cooked rice: Fried rice is best made with leftover cooked rice as it has a firmer texture and doesn’t become mushy when stir-fried. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a baking sheet and let it cool and dry out for a bit before using.
7. Add flavor to the fried rice: Create a flavorful base for your fried rice by sautéing garlic, ginger, and onions in the pan before adding the rice. You can also add a small amount of soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sesame oil for extra flavor.
8. Combine and season: Once the steak, shrimp, vegetables, and fried rice are cooked, combine them in the skillet or wok. Toss everything together gently to evenly distribute the ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional sauces as desired.
9. Garnish and serve: To add a finishing touch, garnish your dish with chopped green onions, fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve the steak and shrimp noodles with fried rice hot and enjoy!
Remember, cooking times and ingredient proportions may vary based on your personal preferences and recipe variations. Feel free to experiment and adjust the recipe to suit your taste.