Shrimp and steak fried rice is a satisfying dish that combines tender pieces of ribeye steak, juicy shrimp, fluffy rice, and colorful vegetables all cooked together in a hot wok or skillet. The result is a flavorful meal with a balance of textures and savory notes. Using day-old cold rice is especially important for this recipe, as it helps the grains remain separate and prevents the dish from becoming mushy during cooking. With a few simple ingredients and careful timing, you can create a restaurant-style fried rice that is hearty, aromatic, and full of rich flavor.
This recipe brings together the savory taste of marinated steak and shrimp with the sweetness of carrots and onions, the fragrance of garlic, and the depth of soy sauce and brown sugar. The addition of scrambled eggs gives the fried rice a comforting, classic touch, while sliced green onions add freshness at the end. Served with a drizzle of yum yum sauce, this dish becomes a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12–15 raw shrimp, tails removed and deveined
- 4 cups day-old cold cooked rice
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 tbsp soy sauce, divided
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar, divided
- 4 tbsp oil, divided
- Yum yum sauce for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak Marinade
Place the bite-sized ribeye steak pieces into a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1/2 tablespoon of brown sugar to the steak. Mix well so that the steak pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning. Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes while preparing the rest of the ingredients. This quick marinade helps enhance the natural flavor of the beef and gives it a slightly sweet and savory glaze when cooked.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a separate bowl, place the cleaned shrimp with the tails removed and deveined. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of brown sugar. Toss gently so the shrimp are evenly coated. Set the bowl aside while heating the cooking pan.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the marinated steak pieces in a single layer. Allow them to cook for about 1 minute on one side without moving them too much, so they develop a browned exterior. Turn the pieces over and cook for another minute on the other side until nicely browned. Once cooked, remove the steak from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Using the same pan, add the shrimp. Cook them for approximately 2 to 3 minutes on each side. As the shrimp cook, they will turn opaque and curl into a gentle “C” shape. This indicates they are perfectly cooked. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become tough if left on the heat too long. Remove the shrimp from the pan and place them on the same plate as the steak.
Step 5: Cook the Vegetables
Add the remaining oil to the pan. Once heated, add the chopped carrots and chopped onions. Stir and cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly while still maintaining a bit of texture. The vegetables will release their natural sweetness as they cook.
Step 6: Add the Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Continue stirring to prevent the garlic from burning. This step helps release the garlic’s aroma and infuses the oil with flavor that will carry through the entire dish.
Step 7: Scramble the Eggs
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan to create an open space. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the empty side of the skillet. Let them sit briefly, then gently scramble them with a spatula until fully cooked. Once the eggs are set, mix them together with the vegetables.
Step 8: Add the Rice
Add the day-old cold rice to the pan. Using a spatula, gently break apart any clumps so that the grains separate. Stir the rice into the vegetable and egg mixture so everything is evenly distributed.
Step 9: Season the Fried Rice
Pour in the remaining soy sauce and add the sugar. Stir well to coat the rice evenly with seasoning. Continue cooking while stirring frequently so the rice absorbs the flavors and becomes lightly toasted.
Step 10: Combine Everything
Return the cooked steak and shrimp to the pan. Add the sliced green onions and gently mix everything together. Stir until the steak, shrimp, rice, eggs, and vegetables are evenly combined and heated through.
Serving
Transfer the fried rice to serving bowls or plates while it is still hot. Serve immediately with yum yum sauce on the side or drizzled over the top according to your preference. The creamy sauce complements the savory fried rice and enhances the flavors of the steak and shrimp.
This shrimp and steak fried rice is a comforting, flavorful meal that combines protein, vegetables, and rice into one delicious dish. Each bite offers a balance of savory beef, tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, and perfectly seasoned rice, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner.