A Deep Dive into the Drake's Surf and Turf Roll Calorie Count
A single serving of Drake's Surf and Turf roll is a hearty meal in itself, packing 820 calories. This high calorie count is a result of its specific ingredients and preparation methods, which differ significantly from traditional Japanese sushi. Unlike simple rolls with raw fish and vegetables, Drake's version includes rich, savory components that drive up its energy density. For those monitoring their calorie intake, understanding this breakdown is essential to balancing their meal.
The Calorie Contributors: What’s Inside?
The significant calorie load of Drake's Surf and Turf roll is largely due to its core components:
- Deep-fried elements: Ingredients like shrimp tempura, which are battered and fried, add a significant amount of fat and calories. Tempura, by its nature, soaks up oil during the frying process, dramatically increasing the roll's total calorie and fat content.
- Rich sauces: Drizzles of spicy mayo and eel sauce, which are common toppings for American-style sushi, are high in fat and sugar respectively. A single tablespoon of spicy mayo can add upwards of 90 calories.
- Premium fillings: The roll's signature "turf" component, seared filet mignon, is a richer cut of meat than the lean, raw fish used in traditional sushi. This adds more protein but also contributes to the overall fat and calorie load.
- Rice volume: Specialty rolls often use a larger quantity of seasoned white rice compared to traditional maki. The caloric density of rice adds up quickly, with every cup of cooked rice contributing a substantial number of carbohydrates and calories.
Macronutrient Breakdown
Beyond just the total calories, the distribution of macronutrients—carbohydrates, fats, and protein—provides a clearer picture of the roll's nutritional profile. For the 820-calorie Drake's Surf and Turf roll, the breakdown is as follows:
- Carbohydrates: 112g (56% of total calories)
- Fat: 25g (28% of total calories)
- Protein: 30g (15% of total calories)
This high carbohydrate and fat content, alongside the moderate protein, makes it a very energy-dense food. The significant carbohydrate load primarily comes from the sushi rice, while the fat is contributed by the tempura and creamy sauces.
Calorie Comparison: Drake's Surf and Turf vs. Other Sushi Rolls
To put the 820-calorie count into perspective, here is a comparison with other popular sushi options. This table highlights how preparation and ingredients directly impact a roll's caloric value.
| Sushi Roll Type | Typical Calories (per 6-8 pieces) | Key Calorie Contributors |
|---|---|---|
| Drake's Surf and Turf | ~820 | Tempura, fatty steak, rich sauces, large rice portion |
| Shrimp Tempura Roll | 417–508 | Deep-fried shrimp, sauces |
| Spicy Tuna Roll | 260–379 | Spicy mayo, avocado |
| California Roll | 200–250 | Imitation crab, avocado, mayo |
| Cucumber Maki | ~136 | Simple rice, cucumber (low-cal) |
| Sashimi (Fish only) | 25–40 (per ounce) | No rice or sauces (very low-cal) |
Making Informed Choices
When you're at a restaurant like Drake's and are conscious of your calorie consumption, several strategies can help manage your intake while still enjoying a meal:
- Share the roll: The Surf and Turf roll is substantial enough to be shared between two people, effectively halving the calorie count per person.
- Opt for alternatives: Consider lower-calorie options on the menu. While Drake's is known for its hearty fare, exploring other sections of the menu or simpler sushi rolls can lead to more balanced choices.
- Request modifications: If available, ask for sauces to be served on the side so you can control the amount you use. Choosing a roll with non-fried ingredients is another effective way to reduce calories.
- Balance your meal: Pair the roll with a side salad or steamed vegetables instead of another heavy appetizer to create a more balanced and less calorie-dense meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, with 820 calories per serving, the Drake's Surf and Turf roll is a decadent and calorie-rich dining choice. Its caloric density stems from a combination of fried tempura, fatty steak, high-volume rice, and creamy sauces. While delicious, it serves as a powerful example of how modern, Westernized sushi can deviate significantly from its traditional, lower-calorie roots. For those looking to enjoy this specialty item, mindful portion control and balancing it with lighter options are key to a health-conscious approach. By understanding the ingredients and their caloric contributions, diners can better align their culinary choices with their nutritional goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in a Drake's Surf and Turf roll?
It typically contains sushi rice, seared filet mignon, shrimp tempura, avocado, and is often topped with rich sauces like spicy mayo and eel sauce.
Is the Drake's Surf and Turf roll a healthy sushi option?
No, at 820 calories per roll, it is considered a high-calorie and energy-dense specialty roll, not a health-conscious option compared to simpler, traditional sushi.
Why are American-style sushi rolls generally higher in calories than traditional Japanese sushi?
Americanized rolls often contain deep-fried ingredients, creamy sauces, and larger portions of rice and fillings, which significantly increase the fat and calorie count compared to simpler traditional preparations.
Can I make a healthier version of a Surf and Turf roll at home?
Yes, you can substitute pan-seared steak and shrimp for the tempura versions, use less rice, and opt for lighter sauces or skip them altogether to reduce calories.
How does the sodium content of this roll compare to others?
The Drake's Surf and Turf roll has 1360mg of sodium per serving, which is very high and a major contributor to its nutritional profile, especially when compared to simpler rolls.
What is a low-calorie alternative to Drake's Surf and Turf roll?
Sashimi (raw fish without rice) or a simple cucumber roll are excellent low-calorie alternatives. Nigiri, with a small amount of rice and a single slice of fish, is also a great option.
Does sharing the roll help with calorie reduction?
Yes, sharing the 820-calorie roll with another person effectively halves the intake per person, making it a more manageable portion for calorie-conscious diners.
