Surf and turf evoke luxur and indulgence like nothing else. This tried-and-true pair brings together land and sea on one plate and it is now one of the cornerstones of fine dining, particularly in a steak house or seafood restaurant Victoria BC. But why exactly is steak and seafood such an ideal pairing?
Let us explore the great history of this legendary combination and understand its timeless popularity.
Origin
Surf and turf as a phrase was coined in the early 1960s in North America, when decadent dining was gaining momentum across the USA and Canada. Lobster paired with steak was a symbol of extravagance and luxury, which was kept aside for special occasions at upscale restaurants. One of the earliest recorded uses of the term were on menus in the Pacific Northwest which isn’t surprising as fresh seafood is readily available there. But prior to this contemporary expression, the tradition of combining meat and seafood was practiced in a number of societies:
- Rich Romans would mix several proteins in their dishes throughout Ancient Rome as an expression of prestige.
- In Traditional Chinese banquets, dishes containing pork and shrimp together in dumplings or chicken and squid in stir-fries was common.
- Paella, originating in Spain and a very famous dish to this day sometimes blends animal protein like chicken and rabbit with seafood like mussels and prawn.
- In Japan, ‘Kaiseki’ or a traditional multi-course meal included both meat and fish but maybe not on the same plate.
Therefore, it is evident that meat and seafood have been consumed together for centuries, but why does it taste so good?
The Appeal
The recipe for the charm of surf and turf lies in its complementary counterpoint to one another. An juicy, marble-scored steak provides deep, rich flavours whilst seafood such as lobster tail, shrimp, or scallops add light, sweet flavours. On their own they play all the right culinary harmonies savoury with sweetness, tender with succulence, umami with brine.
Individuals also enjoy the best of both worlds, and that is why a surf and turf meal is usually reserved for something special. A rich steak and a tender lobster tail are both indulgent, and together they express something special. Particularly when cooks at specialty restaurants like Nautical Nellies Steak & Seafood House craft meals that makes such disparate flavours harmonize so well together.
Best Combinations
Now that you know why this combination might be so popular, you may want to know how to order at a restaurant to best appreciate this wonderful pairing just right.
- Filet Mignon with Lobster Tail
The ultimate S&T staple, the butter-coated lobster complements the lean filet, usually served with a red wine reduction or a bernaise sauce. You are paying for quality cuts and elegant simplicity. Whether romantic dinner or celebration, this sophisticated pairing rarely fails.
- Braised Short Rib with Lobster Mac and Cheese
Savoury Slow cooked richness of the short rib meets creamy and cheesy macaroni with sweet lobster throughout is comfort food elevated to another level.
- New York Strip with Grilled Scallops
Tough beefy steak is balanced with the creamy bite-sized tender scallops. If you prefer your protein hearty and meaty and would like complexity in your meals without being too bogged down with flavours, you’d prefer this combination.
- Wagyu Beef with Miso-Glazed Black Cod
A Japanese inspired combination that brings together bold umami flavors from the highly marbled steak with velvety richness of the cod. For people who appreciate exotic and high-end options,you may want to look for this combination.
- Ribeye with Shrimp
Rich, juicy fatty steak paired with savoury and flavourful shrimp with the richness of garlic butter is both comforting as well as decadent. Every bite gives one a rich contrast of the soft steak and crispy shrimp. If you prefer a balance of texture with dense flavours in your food, you’d be prepared to take on this strong and hearty dish.
Whenever you visit a high-end steakhouse with seafood specialties, you will surely find dining options that blend the sea and the land. And when you notice these options at a good place, do not let that opportunity slip and give it a try when you are ready for a decadent meal.