This Easy Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stack is a fun twist on traditional sushi! Layered with fresh shrimp, avocado, and a hint of spice, it’s as colorful as it is tasty.
Making this dish is like playing with your food! I love stacking the ingredients high for a little extra drama on my plate. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing with friends on movie night!
And the best part? You don’t need to be a sushi master to make it. Just layer, slice, and enjoy the yummy flavors in every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sushi Rice: This sticky rice is essential for making sushi stacks. If you can’t find sushi rice, short-grain rice works too. Just note that it might not be quite as sticky.
Sriracha Sauce: The sriracha gives the shrimp a great kick. If you prefer less heat, try using a mild chili sauce or a dash of hot sauce instead. You could also mix in a bit of honey for a sweeter flavor!
Shrimp: Cooked shrimp are key here, but you can substitute with crab, cooked lobster, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Canned shrimp can also work in a pinch.
Nori: While nori adds a traditional touch, feel free to skip it if you’re not a fan. You can use a sprinkle of furikake (a Japanese seasoning) or even crushed seaweed snacks as an alternative.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sushi Rice?
Getting sushi rice right is crucial for stacking! Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which prevents sticking. It’s vital to let it rest after cooking to reach the perfect texture.
- When cooking, keep a lid on the pot until the rice has fully absorbed the water. Letting it sit off the heat for 10 minutes makes a big difference.
- When mixing in the vinegar, be gentle to avoid smashing the rice.
What’s the Best Way to Layer Your Sushi Stacks?
Creating a well-structured sushi stack is all about layering. Start with sushi rice at the base, then add your veggies followed by the shrimp. Press each layer down lightly to help hold the structure.
- Using a ring mold helps keep everything neat. If you don’t have one, a clean food can works just as well!
- Remove the mold slowly to maintain your stack’s shape.
Enjoy the fun of creating this delicious sushi stack at home!
How to Make Easy Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sushi Base:
- 1 cup sushi rice
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Fillings:
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped
For the Spicy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
For the Toppings:
- 1 sheet nori (seaweed), torn into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (black and/or white)
- Optional: thinly sliced scallions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish requires about 35 minutes to prepare and assemble. Allow for an additional 10 minutes for the rice to rest after cooking. In total, you’ll spend around 45 minutes creating these delicious sushi stacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sushi Rice:
Start by rinsing sushi rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch. Once rinsed, drain the rice well. In a pot, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 18 minutes. After cooking, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 10 minutes to steam.
2. Season the Rice:
While the rice steams, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved. Once the rice is ready, transfer it to a large bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to smash the rice. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Combine the Shrimp Filling:
In another mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, mayonnaise, sriracha, and soy sauce. Mix well, taste, and adjust the spiciness by adding more sriracha if you like it hotter.
4. Assemble the Sushi Stacks:
To create your stacks, place a ring mold or a clean food-safe cylinder on a serving plate. Start by adding a layer of sushi rice at the bottom, pressing it down gently to form a solid base. Next, layer on the diced cucumber and avocado evenly. Finally, spoon a generous layer of the spicy shrimp mixture on top.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Carefully lift the mold off the stack. Sprinkle the torn nori pieces and toasted sesame seeds on top. If you like, add thinly sliced scallions for an extra touch. Serve your beautiful sushi stacks immediately with sides of soy sauce, pickled ginger, or wasabi!
Enjoy crafting and sharing this bright, fresh, and easy-to-make spicy shrimp sushi stack—a delightful meal for any occasion!
FAQ about Easy Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
Can I Use Different Proteins Instead of Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with cooked crab, lobster, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that whatever protein you choose is cooked if needed!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free soy sauce (often labeled as tamari) in place of regular soy sauce. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten-free!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
You can prepare the sushi rice and shrimp mixture in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble the stacks just before serving for the best texture and presentation!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The rice might lose its texture, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh, but you can reheat the rice gently in a microwave if needed!
