These Easy Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are fun and bursting with flavor! Layered with tender shrimp, creamy avocado, and a hint of sriracha, each bite is a tasty treat.
Making these sushi stacks is a breeze! I love how I can impress my friends without needing to roll anything. Plus, they look cute on my plate—everyone loves that! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sushi Rice: This sticky rice is essential for keeping the stacks together. If you can’t find sushi rice, any short-grain rice will do. Just keep in mind that the texture might not be quite the same.
Cooked Shrimp: You could use fresh shrimp if you prefer, just make sure to cook them until they’re pink and opaque. If you want a vegetarian option, try using tofu or canned chickpeas instead!
Avocado: Ripe avocados add creaminess. If avocados aren’t in season, use guacamole or even whipped cream cheese as a substitute. They won’t have the same flavor, but they will add a nice texture.
Sriracha: For those who want less heat, you can replace it with ketchup or mayo. For more spice, try adding chili garlic sauce or a dash of wasabi!
How Do I Make Perfect Sushi Rice?
Making sushi rice can be tricky, but if you follow these steps, you’ll nail it! Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, which is key to getting that sticky consistency. Here’s how to do it:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water is clear to prevent it from being too gummy.
- Cook it in a saucepan with the right water-to-rice ratio—1.25 cups of water per cup of rice works great.
- Once it’s cooked, let it cool completely. Spreading it on a plate helps it cool faster and keeps it from becoming too clumpy.
With these tips, you’ll have sushi rice that’s perfectly sticky and ready for stacking!
Easy Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Sushi Rice:
- 1 cup sushi rice
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- For the Spicy Shrimp Mixture:
- 10-12 cooked shrimp, chopped
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- For the Veggies:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cucumber, finely chopped
- For Toppings:
- Nori sheets, shredded or cut into small strips
- 1 tbsp black sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp toasted white sesame seeds
- Optional garnish: green onions, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 15 minutes cooking the rice and prepping the ingredients, followed by another 15 minutes for assembly. It’s a quick and fun recipe to whip up for a nice meal or a gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sushi Rice:
Start by rinsing the sushi rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the rice well to remove excess starch. Now, in a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 1 1/4 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover it with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
2. Season the Rice:
While the rice is cooking, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture. Allow it to cool to room temperature; this will give the rice a nice flavor and sticky texture.
3. Make the Spicy Shrimp Mixture:
In another bowl, combine the chopped cooked shrimp with mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix everything well, and adjust the amount of sriracha based on your preferred spice level. Set this mixture aside while you prep the veggies.
4. Prepare the Veggies:
Dice the avocado and finely chop the cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces. These will add a refreshing crunch and creaminess to your sushi stacks.
5. Assemble the Sushi Stacks:
To make the sushi stacks, place a food ring or mold on your serving plate. Start by layering the bottom with sushi rice, pressing it down gently to form a firm layer. Next, add a layer of the diced cucumber, followed by the avocado pieces. Finally, spoon the spicy shrimp mixture on top of the avocado layer, spreading it out evenly.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once you’ve added all the layers, carefully remove the mold, ensuring the stack holds its shape. For the finishing touches, garnish the top with shredded nori, a sprinkle of black and white sesame seeds, and optional slices of green onions for added freshness and color.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Easy Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are now ready to shine on your table! Serve them immediately with soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy these delicious, vibrant stacks that are sure to impress!
FAQ about Easy Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
Can I Use Different Ingredients for the Sushi Stack?
Absolutely! You can customize these stacks with various ingredients. For a vegetarian version, use tofu or tempura vegetables instead of shrimp. You can also swap in different types of vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, for added crunch and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The rice may harden slightly, so consider microwaving it for a few seconds to warm up and restore its texture. Note that the sliced avocado might brown a little, so it’s best enjoyed fresh when assembled!
Can I Prepare These Stacks in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the components ahead of time! Cook the sushi rice and prepare the shrimp mixture, then store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the stacks just before serving to maintain the fresh flavors and textures.
What Can I Use Instead of Sushi Rice?
If sushi rice isn’t available, you can use any short-grain rice or even a medium-grain rice in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust your water-to-rice ratio according to the type you choose for optimal texture!
