Experience the ultimate luxury in food with this mini surf and turf recipe. This dish features two of the most decadent ingredients on the planet - melt-in-your-mouth Japanese Wagyu beef and succulent Maine lobster tail. It's a simple recipe that truly allows these high-quality ingredients to shine. A perfect dish for a special occasion or when you're looking to treat yourself!
This recipe calls for a few select ingredients that may not be readily available in your average supermarket. Japanese Wagyu beef, known for its intense marbling and rich flavor, might need to be sourced from a specialty butcher shop or ordered online. Similarly, Maine lobster tails, famous for their sweet, tender flesh, are often found in seafood markets or can be purchased online. Madagascar vanilla beans, used for the clarified butter, can usually be found in the spice aisle of a well-stocked supermarket or specialty food store.
Decadent Ingredients for Mini Surf and Turf
Japanese Wagyu New York strip steak: This highly marbled, richly flavored meat is revered as the king of steaks. Its marbling contributes to the steak's rich flavor and tender texture.
Coarse sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the wagyu steak and lobster tail.
Maine lobster tail: Known for its sweet, succulent meat, it pairs beautifully with the intense, rich flavors of the Wagyu.
Clarified butter: Used to cook the lobster tail. It has a higher smoke point than regular butter and imparts a delicious, slightly nutty flavor.
Madagascar vanilla bean: Adds a delicate, sweet aroma to the clarified butter, enhancing the overall flavor of the lobster tail.
One reader, Gerrard Brockman says:
This mini surf and turf recipe is a delightful treat! The combination of succulent wagyu steak and tender lobster tail is simply divine. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the vanilla-infused butter adds a unique touch. It's a luxurious dish that's sure to impress any guest. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required
How to season and sear the wagyu cube: Generously season the wagyu cube with salt and pepper. On a griddle or very hot pan, sear the wagyu cube on each side, ensuring a nice caramelized crust while leaving the inside medium in temperature. Do not use any oil.
How to cook the lobster medallion in vanilla bean clarified butter: In a small saucepan, warm clarified butter and a split Madagascar vanilla bean to about 300 degrees F. Place the lobster medallion in the vanilla bean clarified butter and cook until just fully opaque with a slightly firm consistency.
How to plate the mini surf and turf: Once the wagyu and lobster are cooked, plate the wagyu and sprinkle with sea salt. Place the lobster medallion next to the wagyu and serve immediately.
How To Make Mini Surf and Turf Recipe
Satisfy your craving for both seafood and meat with this simple surf and turf, made with seared wagyu and buttery lobster tail, for a filling meal.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1ozJapanese Wagyu New York strip steak
- ¼tspcoarse sea salt
- 1ozMaine lobster tail
- 6ozclarified butter
- 1Madagascar vanilla bean
Instructions
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Generously season the Wagyu cube with salt and pepper.
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On a griddle or very hot pan, sear the Wagyu cube on each side, making sure that each side gets nicely caramelized and crusted but leaving the inside medium in temperature. Do not use any oil.
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Plate and sprinkle with sea salt.
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In a small saucepan, warm the clarified butter and vanilla bean to about 300 degrees F.
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Place the lobster medallion in the vanilla bean clarified butter. Allow to cook until just fully opaque and has a slightly firm consistency.
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Place next to the Wagyu and serve. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 1593.47kcal
- Fat: 174.28g
- Saturated Fat: 107.34g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 51.04g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.54g
- Carbohydrates: 0.63g
- Sugar: 0.63g
- Protein: 10.64g
- Cholesterol: 494.70mg
- Sodium: 539.04mg
- Calcium: 33.12mg
- Potassium: 158.30mg
- Iron: 0.54mg
- Vitamin A: 1429.10µg
Technique Tip for Preparing Mini Surf and Turf
When searing your wagyu steak, it's crucial to have your pan extremely hot. This ensures a beautiful, caramelized crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and medium-rare. Remember, wagyu is a very rich and fatty cut of meat, so it doesn't need any additional oil in the pan. The fat within the steak will render out and provide enough grease to prevent sticking. Also, when cooking the lobster tail in the vanilla bean clarified butter, make sure not to overcook it. Lobster can become tough and rubbery if overcooked. It should be just opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Mini Surf and Turf Recipe
Plan ahead: Prepare a shopping list and gather all the necessary ingredients before starting the recipe to avoid any last-minute trips to the store.
Multitask: While the wagyu is searing, simultaneously warm the clarified butter for the lobster to save time in the kitchen.
Organize: Set up your cooking station with all the tools and ingredients needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.
Prep in advance: Pre-season the wagyu and prepare the clarified butter with the vanilla bean ahead of time to minimize last-minute prep work.
Substitute Ingredients For Mini Surf and Turf Recipe
japanese wagyu new york strip steak - Substitute with USDA Prime or Choice New York strip steak: Japanese wagyu is known for its marbling and tenderness, but a good quality USDA Prime or Choice New York strip steak can provide a similar rich flavor and texture.
coarse sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Both salts have a similar texture and can be used interchangeably for seasoning.
maine lobster tail - Substitute with Australian lobster tail: While Maine lobster is known for its sweet and tender meat, Australian lobster tail can offer a similar taste and texture.
clarified butter - Substitute with ghee: Both are clarified forms of butter, with ghee having a slightly nuttier flavor due to the way it is prepared.
madagascar vanilla bean - Substitute with Tahitian vanilla bean: Tahitian vanilla beans have a similar floral and fruity flavor profile to Madagascar vanilla beans and can be used as a substitute in recipes.
Best Presentation for Mini Surf and Turf
Elevate the surf and turf: Present the wagyu cube and lobster tail on a sleek, modern plate to showcase the premium ingredients.
Incorporate contrasting colors and textures: Arrange the wagyu cube and lobster tail in a way that highlights the contrast between the rich, marbled steak and the delicate, sweet lobster meat.
Utilize negative space: Embrace minimalism by allowing the natural beauty of the surf and turf to shine through, using negative space to draw attention to the exquisite flavors.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance by delicately placing edible flowers around the dish, enhancing the visual appeal and adding a subtle floral note to the overall presentation.
Highlight the natural marbling of the wagyu: Display the seared wagyu cube in a manner that accentuates the intricate marbling, allowing the visual appeal to complement the exceptional flavor.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the components of the surf and turf in a symmetrical and balanced manner, showcasing precision and attention to detail.
Use a minimalist plating style: Embrace a minimalist approach, focusing on clean lines and precise placement to emphasize the sophistication of the dish.
Incorporate a touch of gold leaf: Elevate the presentation with a subtle touch of luxury by delicately adding edible gold leaf to the surf and turf, creating a visually stunning effect.
Essential Tools for Making Surf and Turf
Griddle or hot pan: A griddle or a hot pan is essential for searing the wagyu cube to achieve a caramelized crust while keeping the inside medium in temperature.
Small saucepan: A small saucepan is used to warm the clarified butter and vanilla bean to the desired temperature for cooking the lobster medallion.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover wagyu steak and lobster tail on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the lobster with a small amount of clarified butter and sprinkle a pinch of salt on both the steak and lobster. Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the steak and lobster are heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as this will result in tough, rubbery textures.
For a quicker reheating method, use the microwave. Place the wagyu steak and lobster tail on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, checking the temperature after each interval. Continue until the steak and lobster are heated to your desired temperature. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the proteins to seize up and become tough.
If you have a sous vide machine, you can reheat the wagyu steak and lobster tail using this precise cooking method. Place the steak and lobster in separate vacuum-sealed bags and submerge them in a water bath set to 130°F (54°C) for the steak and 140°F (60°C) for the lobster. Allow them to reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until they reach the desired internal temperature. This method ensures even reheating without the risk of overcooking.
For a stovetop option, heat a small amount of clarified butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the wagyu steak and lobster tail to the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the steak and lobster to reheat for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach the desired internal temperature. Baste the proteins with the melted butter to keep them moist and flavorful.
Random Fact about Mini Surf and Turf
Mini surf and turf dishes are a popular choice for those who enjoy a variety of flavors and textures in their meals. The combination of rich, marbled wagyu steak with the delicate and sweet flavor of lobster creates a unique and indulgent dining experience. This dish is a perfect example of how contrasting ingredients can come together to create a harmonious and delicious dish. Whether it's for a special occasion or a luxurious treat, mini surf and turf recipes offer a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to impress any food enthusiast.
Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
The cost-effectiveness of this mini surf and turf recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients, particularly the Japanese Wagyu New York strip steak and Maine lobster tail. While these premium ingredients may elevate the dish, they can also significantly impact the overall cost. Considering the small portion size and the luxurious nature of the dish, it may not be the most cost-effective option for a household. However, for a special occasion or a gourmet experience, it could be worth the investment. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would likely be upwards of $100. Verdict: 7.
Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This mini surf and turf recipe, while indulgent and flavorful, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The wagyu beef is high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess.
- The lobster is cooked in a significant amount of clarified butter, adding even more saturated fat to the dish.
- The recipe lacks any vegetables or fiber-rich components, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious meal.
However, the small portion sizes of the wagyu and lobster do help to control the overall calorie and fat content of the dish.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of clarified butter used to cook the lobster, or replace it with a healthier cooking method such as grilling or steaming.
- Incorporate a side dish of steamed or grilled vegetables to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the meal. Some excellent options include asparagus, broccoli, or a mixed green salad.
- Use a leaner cut of beef, such as sirloin or tenderloin, to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
- Add a small serving of whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, to provide additional fiber and nutrients.
By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the luxurious flavors of surf and turf while creating a more balanced and nutritious meal.
Editor's Opinion on This Dish
This mini surf and turf recipe is a delightful combination of luxurious Japanese wagyu and succulent Maine lobster, showcasing the finest flavors of land and sea. The wagyu is expertly seared to perfection, creating a caramelized crust while maintaining a tender, medium-rare interior. The addition of vanilla-infused clarified butter elevates the lobster, imparting a subtle sweetness and aromatic richness. The contrast of textures and flavors in this dish is truly exquisite, making it a standout choice for a sophisticated and indulgent dining experience.
Why trust this Mini Surf and Turf Recipe:
This recipe features top-notch ingredients, including Japanese Wagyu New York strip steak and Maine lobster tail, ensuring a luxurious dining experience. The careful preparation, such as searing the Wagyu to perfection and infusing the lobster with vanilla bean clarified butter, showcases culinary expertise. The use of coarse sea salt enhances the flavors, while the precise cooking instructions guarantee a delightful surf and turf dish. With a focus on quality and technique, this recipe offers a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures, earning the trust of discerning home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
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