Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? The Surf & Turf Tomahawk Steak is the ultimate meal for meat lovers. Combining a thick, juicy tomahawk with succulent shrimp, this dish promises to impress. In this guide, I’ll share how to prepare this delicious meal, along with tips for choosing the best ingredients and cooking methods. Get your grill ready, and let’s dive into this flavorful experience!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 tomahawk steak (about 2-3 pounds)
– 4 large shrimp, deveined and peeled
Seasonings and Marinades
– Olive oil
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Garlic powder
– Smoked paprika
Garnishes and Accompaniments
– Butter
– Fresh lemon juice
– Chopped parsley
– Lemon wedges
When I create a surf and turf dish, I love to start with the star players: the tomahawk steak and shrimp. The tomahawk steak, with its long bone and rich marbling, brings a bold flavor. A good shrimp adds a sweet touch that balances the steak perfectly.
For the best taste, I choose high-quality ingredients. The right tomahawk steak should feel heavy and have a good amount of marbling. Look for bright, fresh shrimp that smell like the ocean.
Next, I focus on seasonings. Olive oil helps the spices stick to the meat. Salt and black pepper enhance the natural flavors. Garlic powder gives a nice kick, while smoked paprika adds depth.
Garnishes are key to making the dish stand out. I love to finish with a dollop of butter, some fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley. The lemon brightens the dish, and the parsley adds a pop of color.
You can find the full recipe for this delicious surf and turf dish to guide you through each step. Enjoy the process!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Steak Preparation
First, let your tomahawk steak sit out for about 30-45 minutes. This helps it get to room temperature. A steak at room temp cooks more evenly. Next, pat the steak dry with paper towels. This step helps create a nice sear.
Now, rub olive oil all over the steak. Use enough to coat it well. Then, season the steak generously. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika on both sides. These spices add great flavor to your steak.
Cooking Methods
Now, it’s time to cook! Preheat your grill or cast-iron skillet over high heat. If you use an oven, set it to 400°F (200°C). When it’s hot, place the steak on the grill or in the skillet. Cook it for about 4-6 minutes on each side for medium-rare. If you like it more done, cook it longer.
If you’re using a skillet, sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Then, transfer it to the preheated oven to finish cooking for 15-20 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
Shrimp Preparation
While the steak cooks, let’s make the shrimp! In a small skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque.
After cooking, drizzle the shrimp with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley. This brightens up the dish and adds fresh flavor.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Cook
To make your tomahawk steak perfect, know the right internal temperatures. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F. For medium, go for 140°F. Remember to use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This tool helps you avoid overcooking. Resting the steak is key too. Once cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes. This lets the juices spread out, making every bite juicy.
Selecting Quality Ingredients
Choosing the best tomahawk steak matters. Look for bright red meat with a good amount of marbling. Marbling means small white streaks of fat. This fat adds flavor and keeps the meat tender. For the shrimp, choose large, fresh ones that smell like the ocean. If you can, buy shrimp with the shell on for more flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley should look bright and fragrant.
Presentation Ideas
To impress your guests, serve the tomahawk steak on a large cutting board. Cut the steak into thick pieces. Arrange the shrimp around the steak for a colorful display. Drizzle some pan butter over the steak for extra flavor. Use lemon wedges and fresh herbs to add a pop of color. This makes your dish look as good as it tastes. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps.
Variations
Different Protein Pairings
If you want to switch things up, try different proteins with your tomahawk steak. Shrimp is tasty, but lobster or scallops can elevate your meal even more. Lobster has a rich flavor that pairs well with steak. Scallops are sweet and meaty, giving a nice contrast.
Flavor Enhancements
You can enhance your meal by adding spices or marinades. Try a mix of chili powder and cumin for a kick. A simple garlic and herb marinade can also add depth. For sauces, consider a garlic butter sauce or a tangy chimichurri. Both complement the steak and seafood perfectly.
Side Dish Recommendations
Pair your surf and turf with sides that balance the rich flavors. Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice. Grilled asparagus or sautéed green beans add freshness. A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can cleanse the palate. You can find the full recipe to guide you through these pairings.
Storage Info
Leftovers
To keep leftover tomahawk steak fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can also place it in an airtight container. This helps prevent air from drying it out. Store the steak in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Wrap it well in foil and then place it in a freezer bag. Leftover steak can last for up to three months in the freezer.
For shrimp, the best method is similar. Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge. You can keep shrimp for one to two days in the fridge. If you want to freeze them, make sure they are fully cooled first. Place them in a freezer bag and remove as much air as possible. Frozen shrimp should also last about three months.
Reheating Tips
To reheat the tomahawk steak, the best method is to use the oven. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. This keeps it warm without cooking it more. Heat the steak for about 20-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook.
For shrimp, a quick way to reheat is in a pan. Heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes. Make sure they are heated through but not overcooked. The ideal temperature for reheating leftovers is around 165°F (74°C). This keeps your meal tasty and safe to eat.
FAQs
What is surf and turf?
Surf and turf is a dish that combines seafood and meat, creating a rich meal. It often features steak and shrimp, or lobster. The mix of flavors and textures makes each bite exciting. You get the savory taste of the steak and the sweet, tender meat of the seafood. This dish brings together the best of both worlds for a truly special dining experience.
Can I grill a tomahawk steak?
Yes, you can grill a tomahawk steak! Here are some tips for grilling it perfectly:
– Preheat the grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the steak.
– Oil the grates: This helps prevent sticking.
– Sear the steak: Grill the tomahawk for about 4-6 minutes per side.
– Use indirect heat: Move the steak to a cooler part of the grill if it browns too fast.
– Rest the steak: Let it sit for 10 minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
How do I know when the steak is done?
To check if the steak is done, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak. Here are some guidelines for steak doneness:
– Rare: 120°F
– Medium-rare: 130°F
– Medium: 140°F
– Medium-well: 150°F
– Well done: 160°F and above
Always remember that the steak will continue to cook a bit while it rests.
What sides pair best with surf and turf?
Several sides complement surf and turf beautifully. Here are some tasty suggestions:
– Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy and flavorful, they pair well with steak.
– Grilled asparagus: Adds a nice crunch and fresh taste.
– Caesar salad: Crisp romaine and dressing balance the richness of the meal.
– Corn on the cob: Sweet and juicy, it matches well with grilled flavors.
– Roasted vegetables: A mix of your favorites adds color and health.
Explore these sides to enhance your surf and turf experience. For the complete preparation, check the Full Recipe.
In this article, we explored how to craft the perfect surf and turf dish. You learned about the key ingredients, from the tomahawk steak to shrimp. We walked through each step, including preparation, cooking methods, and tips for success.
Remember to rest your steak and pick quality seafood for the best taste. Each bite should impress your guests. Now, you can enjoy this delicious meal at home. Cooking doesn’t have to be hard; it can be fun. Dive in and enjoy your cooking journey!
