Combining the best of land and sea, the reef and beef dish is a luxurious and flavor-packed meal guaranteed to impress.
Whether you're creating a memorable date-night dinner or hosting guests for a special occasion, this recipe pairs tender, juicy steak with succulent seafood for a decadent experience anyone can enjoy. Perfect for food lovers and home cooks, this guide will walk you through crafting a perfectly balanced and restaurant-quality reef and beef dish.
What Is Reef and Beef?
Reef and beef, also popularly known as "surf and turf," is a delightful culinary combination that brings together the rich umami flavors of prime beef with the delicate, sweet taste of seafood. While the most common interpretation features filet mignon and lobster or shrimp, this dish can be endlessly customized to match your personal taste preferences and budget.
Here, we’ll be using a combination of seared ribeye steak and garlic butter prawns, making it an approachable and crowd-pleasing version you can cook in your own kitchen.
Why You'll Love Cooking Reef and Beef
- Luxurious Without the Restaurant Bill: This recipe gives you the opportunity to enjoy a five-star dining experience in the comfort of your own home.
- Simple Yet Impressive: You don’t have to be a professional chef to master a reef and beef dish. With just a few steps, you’ll feel accomplished creating a restaurant-worthy meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to substitute steak cuts or seafood based on what’s available locally or what you enjoy most.
Now, let's get cooking!
Ingredients (Serves 2)
For the Beef
- 2 ribeye steaks (approximately 8oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 3–4 sprigs of fresh thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For the Seafood
- 12 jumbo prawns (peeled and deveined)
- 2–3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For Serving
- Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Ingredients
Start by patting your steaks with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Set aside at room temperature for 20–30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
For the prawns, rinse and pat them dry as well. Toss with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of chili flakes (if using) for a touch of spice.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil to coat the surface. Carefully place the steaks in the pan and sear each side for 3–4 minutes to develop a rich, golden-brown crust.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, crushed garlic, and thyme sprigs to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly to spoon the melted butter over the steaks repeatedly for 2–3 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
- Rare: 120°F
- Medium-rare: 130°F
- Medium: 140°F
Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steaks from the pan and tent them with foil to rest.
Step 3: Cook the Prawns
Clean out the skillet slightly and lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, letting it cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Toss in the prawns and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Be mindful not to overcook them.
Once the prawns just finish cooking, stir in the lemon juice, zest, and chopped parsley. Remove from the heat and keep warm.
Step 4: Plate Your Reef and Beef
To assemble, place the steak on a serving plate with your chosen side dish. Spoon the garlic butter prawns over the steak or alongside it. Garnish with an extra splash of parsley and lemon for a fresh finish.
Serve immediately, and watch your loved ones swoon over this luxurious yet effortless meal.
Tips for the Best Reef and Beef
- Selecting the Right Steak: If ribeye isn’t your cut of choice, sirloin, filet mignon, or New York strip steak are excellent alternatives.
- Experiment with Seafood: Swap prawns for scallops, lobster tail, or even crab for variation.
- Perfect Searing: Ensure your pan is sizzling hot before adding the steak to lock in juices and flavor.
- Up the Flavor Game: Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan before cooking your seafood for an added depth of flavor.
- Plan Ahead: To save time, prep your prawns, garlic, and lemon juice while your steak comes to room temperature.
Why Reef and Beef Should Be on Your Dinner Table
Reef and beef isn’t just special because of its rich flavors and impressive presentation. It also symbolizes the perfect balance of taste and texture in a single dish. Whether served for a romantic meal or as a showstopper at a dinner party, it always creates a moment worth savoring.
Want to make this recipe your own? Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices, marinades, and even pairing sauces to craft a personalized version of reef and beef. Once you master this dish using the steps above, the possibilities are endless.
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