This Easy Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stack is a fun and tasty twist on sushi! It has layers of juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and fluffy rice that combine perfectly. Yum!
Making this stack is a breeze! I love it for lunch or dinner, and it looks impressively fancy, too. Just grab a fork and dig in—no rolling skills needed! 🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sushi Rice: It’s best to use sushi rice because it has the right stickiness for stacking. If you can’t find sushi rice, short-grain rice can work in a pinch, but it won’t be as sticky.
Shrimp: You can use pre-cooked shrimp for convenience, or fresh shrimp if you prefer. If you want to make it vegetarian, consider using marinated tofu or mushrooms instead!
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess, but if you’re allergic or don’t like it, try using hummus or even a layer of cream cheese for a similar texture.
Mayonnaise & Sriracha: For a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. You could also use hot sauce if you want to change the flavor profile.
How Do You Cook Sushi Rice Perfectly?
Cooking sushi rice right is key for the stacks to hold together. First, rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch until the water runs clear. This will help it become sticky but not gummy. Cook the rice according to package instructions, either in a rice cooker or on the stove.
- Once cooked, transfer the rice to a bowl while it’s still warm.
- Mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt together until dissolved, then gently fold it into the rice.
- Let the rice cool to room temperature before stacking; this prevents the avocado and other layers from heating up!
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 Filling:
- 1/2 pound cooked shrimp, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled and diced
- For the Spicy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- For the Toppings:
- 1 sheet nori, toasted and cut into small strips
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon toasted white sesame seeds
- Optional: finely chopped green onions or scallions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare, including cooking the rice and assembling the sushi stacks. Allow some time for the rice to cool before stacking, so plan for a total of 45 minutes to an hour if you want to take it easy! Enjoy creating a fun, flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Sushi Rice:
Start by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and makes the rice sticky, perfect for stacking. Then, combine the rice and water in a rice cooker or pot and cook according to the package instructions.
2. Making the Rice Mixture:
While the rice is cooking, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until they’re all dissolved. This will season your rice and add that tasty sushi flavor!
3. Combining & Cooling the Rice:
Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Gently fold in the vinegar mixture with a spatula and let the rice cool to room temperature. This is important, as warm rice can make the other ingredients too soft.
4. Mixing the Spicy Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until smooth to create your delicious spicy sauce!
5. Coating the Shrimp:
Take half of the spicy sauce and toss the chopped shrimp in it until they’re well coated. Save the other half of the sauce for drizzling on top later!
6. Assembling the Sushi Stacks:
Grab a ring mold (about 3 inches wide) or a small cup. Start by layering the sushi rice at the bottom of the mold, pressing down gently to compress it. This helps the stack hold together.
7. Layering the Ingredients:
After the rice layer, add a layer of diced cucumber, followed by a layer of diced avocado. Finally, top it with the spicy shrimp for a burst of flavor.
8. Adding Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the toasted nori strips and both black and white sesame seeds over the top of your stack. These add a nice crunch and flavor!
9. Finalizing Your Stacks:
Carefully lift the ring mold to reveal your beautifully layered sushi stack. Drizzle some of the reserved spicy sauce on top for extra flavor.
10. Garnishing and Serving:
If desired, garnish with finely chopped green onions or scallions for a fresh touch. Serve your sushi stacks immediately with soy sauce or pickled ginger on the side. Enjoy your delicious creation!
These Easy Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks make a perfect meal or appetizer. They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat—enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Sushi Rice?
While brown rice is a healthier option, it won’t be as sticky and won’t hold the layers together as well as sushi rice. If you prefer brown rice, make sure to cook it properly to achieve a softer texture, and keep in mind that it may not stack as neatly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make these sushi stacks vegetarian, simply replace the shrimp with marinated tofu, sautéed mushrooms, or a mix of colorful vegetables. You can still use the spicy sauce to add flavor!
Can I Prepare the Sushi Stacks in Advance?
You can prepare the components—rice, shrimp, and toppings—up to a day ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Just assemble the stacks right before serving to ensure freshness and avoid sogginess.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the components separate if possible, especially the rice and avocado, to maintain texture. To enjoy them again, eat cold or gently reheat the shrimp, but avoid reheating the rice to maintain its integrity.
