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This shrimp fried rice with lamb chops and spicy yum yum sauce is a perfect blend of surf and turf that brings exciting flavors to your dinner table. The tender lamb chops are seared to juicy perfection while the shrimp fried rice offers a fragrant and fluffy base full of color and texture. The creamy, spicy yum yum sauce cuts through savory richness with a satisfying kick that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s an effortless yet impressive meal ideal for cozy weeknights or casual entertaining.
The first time I made this, I was surprised at how the lamb took a humble shrimp fried rice to a whole new level. Now it’s a favorite for special weeknight dinners that still feel hearty and comforting.
Ingredients
- Four frenched lamb chops: Provide a tender and rich protein centerpiece choose chops with good marbling for juiciness
- Olive oil: Adds a healthy fat that helps sear lamb beautifully and brings out natural flavors
- Soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce: Create a savory umami marinade base that deepens the lamb’s flavor
- Smoked paprika: Adds warm smokiness to the lamb seek out Spanish smoked paprika for best results
- Dayold jasmine rice: Ensures fluffiness and a dry texture perfect for fried rice without clumping
- Fresh peeled and deveined shrimp: Bring natural sweetness and protein balance to the dish
- Eggs: Enrich the rice with creamy texture and help bind the fried rice
- Carrots and onion: Provide crunch and natural sweetness opt for fresh, firm vegetables for texture
- Frozen peas: Add color and a mild pop of sweetness fresh peas work well if available
- Sesame oil: Infuses a nutty aroma that ties all elements together toasted sesame oil is ideal
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the yum yum sauce delivering richness
- Ketchup and sriracha: Provide tang and heat to the sauce adjustable to your spice preference
- Rice vinegar: Brightens the yum yum sauce balancing its richness
- Smoked paprika or cayenne powder: Bring a spicy kick to the sauce adjust for milder or bolder heat
Instructions
- Marinate and Cook Lamb Chops:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper thoroughly. Rub this marinade all over the lamb chops, coating both sides. Let them rest in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to deepen the flavor. Heat a skillet or grill pan on mediumhigh and sear the lamb chops for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until a rich caramelized crust forms. For a subtle glazed finish, brush honey on the chops during the last minute of cooking. Remove them from heat and allow to rest for five minutes this step locks in juices for moist, tender meat.
- Prepare the Shrimp Fried Rice:
- Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over mediumhigh heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, roughly two to three minutes. Remove the shrimp and set aside. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and sauté diced onion and carrots for about three to four minutes until tender. Push vegetables to one side and pour beaten eggs into the empty space, scrambling quickly until just set. Add the dayold jasmine rice, breaking apart any clumps, and stir-fry everything together evenly. Season with soy sauce, optional oyster sauce, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Return the shrimp to the pan and toss everything to blend flavors and develop a slight crisp on the rice.
- Make the Spicy Yum Yum Sauce:
- Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, garlic powder, smoked paprika or cayenne, sugar, rice vinegar or lemon juice, and sriracha in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Add a tablespoon of water if needed to reach creamy consistency. Cover and chill the sauce for at least ten minutes to marry the flavors.
- Serve:
- Plate the shrimp fried rice warm, arrange sliced lamb chops on top, and drizzle with the spicy yum yum sauce or provide it on the side. Garnish with chopped green onions to add freshness and color pop.
The smoky richness of lamb contrasts beautifully with the delicate sweetness of shrimp creating an unexpected harmony. My favorite moment is watching guests’ surprised reactions when they taste the creamy, spicy yum yum sauce paired with the savory meats. It turned this dish into a family classic that is both impressive and comforting every time.
Storage Tips
Allow the rice and lamb to cool completely before storing in airtight containers. Refrigerate rice for up to three days and reheat in a skillet with a splash of oil to revive texture. Lamb chops keep three to four days in the fridge and freeze well for up to two months, thaw overnight before reheating. Store the spicy yum yum sauce separately in the fridge and consume within one week for best freshness.
Ingredient Substitutions
If lamb is not your preference, beef steaks or chicken thighs can replace it using the same marinade process. Vegetarians can swap meat for firm tofu but adjust cooking time to cook through evenly. Oyster sauce can be left out or replaced with mushroom soy sauce to keep umami without shellfish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a crisp cucumber salad or Asianstyle slaw for a light fresh contrast. Mango sticky rice makes a wonderful sweet finish balancing the spicy sauce. Drinks such as iced green tea or citrusy mocktails refresh the palate and complement the meal’s heat.
Serve warm and enjoy the balance of smoky lamb and sweet shrimp with the spicy yum yum sauce. It’s a satisfying surf and turf meal that impresses with minimal fuss.
Common Questions About the Recipe
- → What key ingredients balance the flavors in this dish?
Marinated lamb chops, soy-seasoned shrimp fried rice, and creamy spicy yum yum sauce combine smoky, savory, and subtly spicy elements harmoniously.
- → How do I ensure the fried rice has the right texture?
Using day-old jasmine rice keeps grains separate and prevents mushiness, resulting in a fluffy, perfect fried rice texture.
- → Can I use other proteins instead of lamb chops?
Chicken, beef, or tofu work as substitutes; just adjust cooking times to maintain tenderness and flavor.
- → How can I adjust the heat level in the spicy sauce?
Reduce or omit sriracha or chili powder to soften heat while keeping creamy, tangy notes from mayonnaise and vinegar.
- → What side dishes complement this meal well?
Fresh cucumber salad, Asian slaw with sesame dressing, or mango sticky rice offer refreshing contrasts to the rich flavors.
- → How should I reheat leftovers to preserve flavor?
Reheat rice in a skillet with a splash of oil to restore texture, warm lamb gently in a skillet or oven, and serve sauce chilled.