SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS Recipe

If you love sushi but want to skip the rolling and still enjoy those bold, fiery flavors, these SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS are an absolute dream come true. Each bite bursts with perfectly cooked shrimp tossed in a tangy, spicy sauce layered atop fluffy, seasoned sushi rice. Topped with creamy avocado and crisp cucumber, these stacks deliver a delightful combination of textures and vibrant flavors without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself, this dish feels fancy yet remains wonderfully approachable and so satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and balance. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the tender shrimp soaked in spicy sauce, to the lightly seasoned sushi rice that acts as the perfect base. Fresh avocado and cucumber add a refreshing crunch, while the optional garnishes bring a lovely finishing touch.

• Large shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined shrimp provide the star protein—don’t overcook to keep that juicy tenderness.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing shrimp, adds a mild richness without overpowering.
• Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Deep umami flavor that amps up the shrimp’s savoriness.
• Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon + 1 tablespoon): Brings brightness, used both in the shrimp marinade and in the rice seasoning.
• Sugar (2 teaspoons): Balances out the acidity and heat for a harmonious taste.
• Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Infuses a subtle nutty aroma to the shrimp.
• Sriracha sauce (2 tablespoons): The punch of heat that makes these stacks “spicy.” Adjust to your liking.
• Mayonnaise (½ cup): Adds creaminess if you want to mix it in or drizzle on top for extra indulgence.
• Sushi rice (1 cup): Short-grain rice that gets tender and sticky, ideal for stacking.
• Water (1½ cups): For cooking the sushi rice perfectly fluffy.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, especially in the rice.
• Avocado (1, sliced): Creamy and buttery, it mellows the spice and adds richness.
• Cucumber (1 small, julienned): Light crunch and freshness to balance the textures.
• Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a nutty crunch and pretty garnish.
• Fresh cilantro or green onions (optional): Bright herbal notes and color finish.

How to Make SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS

Step 1: Cook the Sushi Rice

Start by giving your sushi rice a good rinse under cold water; this washes away extra starch and prevents it from becoming gluey. Then, cook it in water until tender and fully absorbed. After cooking, fold in the rice vinegar and a pinch of salt to infuse the rice with that signature mild tang and seasoning that sushi rice is known for. Let it rest covered so the flavors set and the texture remains perfect for stacking.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

While your rice is resting, heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté the shrimp until they’re just cooked through—opaque and tender, never rubbery. Then, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and sriracha to make the fiery marinade. Toss the shrimp in this sauce and let it soak up those spicy-sweet notes with a quick minute back on the heat. This step is where the flavor magic happens for your SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS.

Step 3: Assemble the Sushi Stacks

Using a round mold or even a clean empty can with both ends removed, layer your components one at a time. Start with a compact layer of the seasoned sushi rice at the bottom, pressing down gently to hold it together. Next, add a generous helping of the spicy shrimp—its sauce helps the layers meld. On top, arrange the creamy avocado slices and crisp cucumber sticks to introduce a refreshing coolness that contrasts beautifully with the spicy shrimp. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and some bright cilantro or green onion for that extra pop.

How to Serve SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes in both flavor and presentation. Toasted sesame seeds add a lovely nutty crunch, while fresh cilantro or sliced green onions bring herbal brightness and a vibrant green hue that’ll make your sushi stacks look like something straight from a sushi bar.

Side Dishes

Serve your SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS alongside simple sides like a crisp seaweed salad or pickled ginger to cleanse the palate. A light miso soup is also a lovely match, providing warmth and umami, perfect for rounding out the full sushi experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking these in clear glasses for a stunning layered effect or arrange mini portions on spoons for a bite-sized appetizer at your next gathering. You can even serve the layers deconstructed on a platter to let each guest create their own perfect bite—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these stacks!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the components separately when possible—keep the shrimp chilled in an airtight container and the rice refrigerated as well. This helps preserve texture and flavor without the ingredients becoming soggy or over-soft. Avocado is best sliced fresh, but if needed, sprinkle a bit of lemon juice on leftover slices to avoid browning.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS due to the delicate texture of the rice and fresh produce. The shrimp could survive freezing, but the other layers will lose their fresh quality upon thawing, so plan to enjoy this one fresh.

Reheating

Gently reheat shrimp in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through to avoid toughness. Rice can be refreshed by sprinkling a few drops of water and microwaving covered for short bursts. Add avocado and cucumber fresh when serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use cooked shrimp instead of raw shrimp?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked shrimp can save time; just toss them in the spicy sauce and warm briefly to meld the flavors. Just be sure not to overcook to keep them tender.

Is there a substitute for sriracha sauce?

If sriracha is not your thing, you can use another chili sauce or a mix of hot sauce and a little tomato paste to mimic the sweetness and spice. Adjust the heat level to your comfort.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Swap regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari, and you’re good to go. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How spicy are SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS?

The heat level can be tailored by adjusting the amount of sriracha in the recipe. Start with less and add more as you go to hit the perfect spicy spot for your taste buds.

What can I do if I don’t have a mold for stacking?

No mold? No problem! Use a wide-mouth jar lid to shape the layers, or simply layer ingredients neatly on a plate or in small bowls and serve deconstructed for a fun twist.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with these SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS—they’re an exciting, flavorful way to enjoy sushi without any special equipment or rolling techniques. Every element has a purpose and comes together in layers of heat, creaminess, and freshness that dance on your palate. I can’t wait for you to try them out and make this new favorite your own delicious staple.

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