Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I set out to create a dish that elevates my usual weeknight meals, I stumbled upon an unexpected twist on the classic sushi experience: Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks. These vibrant stacks boast layers of juicy shrimp coated in zesty sriracha, creamy avocado, and crunchy cucumber, all resting on fluffy sushi rice. The best part? They’re not just quick to prepare, but they also shine during dinner parties, impressing guests with their elegant presentation. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb adaptation or a dairy-free option, this recipe is wonderfully versatile. Who knew sushi could be so accessible and delicious? Ready to dive into a culinary experience that’s as eye-catching as it is satisfying? Let’s get stacking! Why Choose Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks? Unparalleled flavors: This recipe brings the vibrant tastes of sushi to your home with an easy twist. Customizable options like swapping shrimp for sushi-grade tuna or tofu allow you to cater to various dietary preferences. Quick preparation means you can whip these stacks up in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Stunning presentation adds elegance to any gathering, making your meal both impressive and delectable. Healthy goodness: High in protein and gluten-free, they fit seamlessly into a nutritious lifestyle. Dive into this creative dish and impress your guests without the hours of rolling traditional sushi! Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Ingredients For the Shrimp Large Shrimp – Provides protein and a meaty texture; substitute with sushi-grade tuna or tofu for different flavor profiles. Olive Oil – Used for cooking; can be replaced with sesame oil for a deeper flavor. Soy Sauce – Adds umami and saltiness; use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. Sriracha Sauce – Provides heat and spice; adjust to taste based on your preferred level of heat. Sugar – Balances flavors in the shrimp glaze; replace with honey or maple syrup if desired. For the Sushi Rice Sushi Rice – Essential for texture and flavor; low-carb? Substitute with cauliflower rice. Rice Vinegar – Seasoning for the rice; can be substituted with apple cider vinegar for a different tang. Salt – Necessary for seasoning; crucial in enhancing the rice’s flavor profile. Water – To cook the sushi rice; ensure you add the right amount for fluffy results. For the Stacking Avocado – Adds creaminess that balances the heat; can be omitted for a lower-fat option. Cucumber – Offers crunch and freshness; use other crisp vegetables like radish if desired. Mayonnaise – Creates the spicy mayo; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative. For Garnishing Sesame Seeds (optional) – For garnish; adds visual appeal and an extra crunch. Fresh Cilantro or Green Onions (optional) – Additional fresh herb garnish; can be substituted with chives for a mild onion flavor. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Step 1: Rinse and Cook the Sushi Rice Start by rinsing 1 cup of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, helping to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 1 ¼ cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat, add 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar and a pinch of salt, stir gently, and let it sit covered for 10 minutes. Step 2: Cook the Shrimp While the rice steams, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of large shrimp to the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. To create the spicy glaze, mix 2 tablespoons each of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, along with 1 teaspoon of sugar and 1 tablespoon of sriracha; drizzle this mixture over the cooked shrimp and stir for an additional minute until well coated. Step 3: Make the Spicy Mayo In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon of sriracha, adjusting the amount based on your desired heat level. Stir until smooth and creamy. This spicy mayo will add a delightful kick to your Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks, acting as both a binder and a zesty topping to enhance flavors. Step 4: Assemble the Stacks Grab a round mold or a glass to form your Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks. Start by layering a scoop of prepared sushi rice at the bottom, pressing it down gently to form a base. Follow with a layer of the spicy shrimp, then add slices of creamy avocado and crunchy cucumber. Repeat this layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous scoop of rice on top, pressing gently between layers for stability. Step 5: Garnish and Serve Once your stacks are assembled, gently remove them from the mold and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle the top with the spicy mayo and sprinkle with sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions. Serve your stunning Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks immediately while everything is fresh and vibrant for an elegant meal that’s ready to impress! What to Serve with Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Elevate your dining experience with complementary dishes that balance flavors and textures, perfect for a delightful meal. Crispy Seaweed Salad: A light and refreshing addition, the crunchiness enhances the sushi stacks while offering a unique umami twist. Miso Soup: This warm, savory broth warms the palate and its earthy flavors pair beautifully with the zesty shrimp. Edamame with Sea Salt: These tender, buttery soybeans provide a satisfying bite, contributing to the overall textured experience. Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut-infused rice contrasts wonderfully with the spicy stacks and adds a creamy mellow flavor. Cucumber and Sesame Salad: A cool, tangy salad brightens up the dish and highlights the crunchiness of fresh ingredients. Sake or White Wine: A glass of sake or a crisp white wine complements the dish, enhancing the meal’s elegant touch. Mango Mojito: The refreshing mint and sweetness of the mango bring a tropical flair, balancing the dish’s spice. Chocolate Mousse: Conclude the meal on a sweet note with this creamy dessert, offering a rich contrast to the savory flavors. Fruit Platter: A colorful arrangement of seasonal fruits adds a vibrant finish and cleanses the palate after the spicy highlights. Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Variations Feel free to mix things up and let your creativity shine while making these delightful stacks! Spicy Tuna Stacks: Substitute shrimp with sushi-grade tuna for a delightful and rich flavor experience. Vegetarian Delight: Replace shrimp with ingredients like tofu cubes or roasted sweet potato for a hearty yet plant-based option. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the same textures without compromising on taste. Tropical Vibes: Add mango slices to enhance sweetness and contrast delightful fruity notes with the spiciness of the shrimp. Revel in that refreshing tropical twist! Tempura Crunch: Top with crispy tempura shrimp or crushed tempura flakes for added texture. The crunch adds a savory layer that will elevate your sushi stacks beyond the ordinary. Eel Sauce Finish: Drizzle eel sauce for extra sweetness and a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the spicy shrimp. It’s a sublime touch for those who appreciate the nuances of sushi. Citrus Zing: Squeeze some fresh lime or lemon juice over the assembled stacks for a bright, zesty finish. This lively touch will awaken all the flavors and make your stacks even more refreshing. Heat Level Customization: Adjust the amount of sriracha in both the shrimp glaze and spicy mayo based on your guests’ spice tolerance. Everyone can make it just right for their palate! And if you’re looking for more shrimp inspiration, don’t miss out on these delightful dishes like Grilled Shrimp Bowl or my mouth-watering Honey Fried Shrimp. These options will surely keep your culinary adventures vibrant and enjoyable! Make Ahead Options These Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the sushi rice and the spicy shrimp up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply cook the sushi rice, let it cool, and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its texture. For the shrimp, cook as instructed, allow them to cool, and store them in the fridge in a tightly sealed container. When it’s time to serve, layer the rice and shrimp with fresh avocado and cucumber to prevent browning. Finish with a drizzle of spicy mayo for an effortless, restaurant-quality dish that’s just as delicious as when freshly made! How to Store and Freeze Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Fridge: Store assembled stacks in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, for best texture, it’s recommended to prepare components separately and assemble just before serving. Freezer: If you’ve prepared extra shrimp and sushi rice, these can be frozen separately in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Reheat shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 2–3 minutes. Avoid reheating sushi rice in the microwave directly as it can become dry; instead, add a sprinkle of water before warming. Ingredient Prep: For ingredients like avocado and cucumber, it’s best to slice fresh just before stacking to maintain their crunch and visual appeal in your Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks. Expert Tips for Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure you rinse the sushi rice until water runs clear; this helps achieve the perfect sticky texture crucial for forming the stacks. Heat Management: Cook shrimp over medium-high heat for a quick, delicious sear. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking. Layering Technique: Press each layer gently but firmly in the mold to maintain structure, preventing the stacks from collapsing when you serve. Customize Spice: Adjust the amount of sriracha in both the shrimp glaze and spicy mayo based on your guests’ spice tolerance for a personalized dish. Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe avocados and crunchy cucumbers for optimal flavor and texture; avoid mushy vegetables that can affect the presentation of your Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks. Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select ripe avocado? Absolutely! Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating ripeness. If there are dark spots all over, that could signify overripeness. For a quicker option, you can purchase avocados that are firm and let them ripen at room temperature for a few days. How should I store leftover Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks? For the freshest taste, store assembled stacks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, to maintain the best texture, I recommend keeping the components separate. Assemble the stacks just before serving for optimal crunch and flavor. Can I freeze Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks? Yes, you can prepare extra shrimp and sushi rice to freeze! Place them in airtight bags and store either for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply move them to the fridge the night before you plan to eat. When ready to enjoy, reheating shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes works wonders; just add a splash of water if the rice needs a bit of moisture. What if my sushi rice isn’t sticky enough? Not to worry! If your rice hasn’t achieved that desired sticky texture, it’s essential to rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. You might also want to ensure you’re using the right rice—sushi rice or short-grain rice is best. If it’s still too dry, you can add additional rice vinegar and salt after cooking to enhance texture and flavor. Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe? Yes, indeed! This dish is versatile, allowing substitutions for common allergens. For gluten-free options, use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce. If you’re concerned about allergies, ensure that the shrimp are sourced from a facility free of shellfish cross-contamination and consider alternating ingredients like tofu or vegetables to suit your guests’ allergies. Can pets eat Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks? It’s not recommended to share Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks with pets, as some ingredients like soy sauce and avocados can be harmful. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your pet’s diet! Delicious Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks for Easy Entertaining Discover Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks, a vibrant and quick dish perfect for entertaining. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsSitting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 stacksCourse: AppetizersCuisine: JapaneseCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Shrimp1 pound large shrimp substitute with sushi-grade tuna or tofu if desired2 tablespoons olive oil can be replaced with sesame oil for deeper flavor2 tablespoons soy sauce use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free2 tablespoons rice vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar for a different tang1 teaspoon sugar replace with honey or maple syrup if desired1 tablespoon sriracha sauce adjust amount based on heat preferenceFor the Sushi Rice1 cup sushi rice substitute with cauliflower rice for low-carb option2 tablespoons rice vinegar1 teaspoon salt1.25 cups waterFor the Stacking1 large avocado can be omitted for lower-fat option1 large cucumber use other crisp vegetables if desired0.25 cup mayonnaise substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter optionFor Garnishingsesame seeds optional, for garnishfresh cilantro or green onions optional, can substitute with chives Equipment medium saucepanLarge SkilletSmall Bowlround mold or glass Method Step-by-Step InstructionsRinse 1 cup of sushi rice under cold water until it runs clear. Combine with 1 ¼ cups of water in a medium saucepan, bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, add 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar and a pinch of salt, stir gently, and let it sit covered for 10 minutes.Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of large shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Mix 2 tablespoons each of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil with 1 teaspoon of sugar and drizzle over shrimp. Stir for an additional minute until well coated.In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon of sriracha, adjusting to desired heat level. Stir until smooth.Layer sushi rice at the bottom of a round mold, press down. Add spicy shrimp, slices of avocado and cucumber. Repeat layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with rice on top.Remove the stacks from the mold and place on a serving platter. Drizzle with spicy mayo and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Garnish with cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1stackCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesRinse rice thoroughly to achieve perfect sticky texture. Avoid overcrowding skillet for even cooking. Adjust sriracha based on spice tolerance. Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor and texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
