Surf and Turf

How to Make Surf and Turf

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1. Mash the softened butter with the garlic, parsley, lemon juice and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Set aside.

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2. Take the steaks out of the fridge 20 minutes before cooking. Pat dry and season generously with salt and pepper.

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3. Heat the grill to high. Use kitchen scissors to cut down the centre of the top shell of each lobster tail, then press it open with your thumbs and pull the meat up slightly. Set the tails on a baking tray, spread with half of the garlic butter and season lightly.

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4. Grill the lobster tails about 12 cm from the heat for 8 to 10 minutes, until the meat is white and opaque and the shell is bright red. Brush with a little more garlic butter halfway.

   Mark done Start 8 min timer

5. While the lobster grills, heat the oil in a heavy frying pan over high heat until it smokes lightly. Sear the steaks for 3 to 4 minutes on one side, turn, add the 15 g of butter and cook for 3 to 4 minutes more for medium-rare, spooning the butter over them.

   Mark done Start 3 min timer

6. Rest the steaks on a warm plate for 5 minutes. Serve each with a lobster tail, a spoonful of the remaining garlic butter and a lemon wedge.

   Mark done Start 5 min timer

Tips for Making Surf and Turf

• Pat the steaks dry and get the pan very hot. This gives a brown crust instead of a grey, steamed surface.
• Split the lobster tails through the top shell. The meat lies flat, it cooks evenly, and it is easy to lift from the shell at the table.
• Do not overcook the lobster. It is done when the meat turns white and firm, and a minute or two longer makes it rubbery.

Common Substitutions & Variations

• An eighth of a teaspoon of garlic powder per clove is the usual stand-in when you are out of fresh garlic — it will not caramelise the same way, but it carries the flavour.

What to Serve with Surf and Turf

• Baked potato
• Steamed asparagus
• Caesar salad

Storing & Reheating Surf and Turf

Best eaten straight away. The garlic butter keeps in the fridge for 5 days and can be frozen for 2 months.

Surf and Turf FAQ: Common Questions

Surf and Turf Nutrition

Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.