Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are a delicious and visually stunning appetizer that combines flavors of sushi with the ease of a layered dish. This recipe features spicy shrimp, avocado, and seasoned rice, all stacked beautifully to create a modern take on sushi. With a burst of fresh, zesty flavors and a satisfying texture, these sushi stacks are perfect for entertaining or as a special meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love sushi but want something a little different, Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are a great option. The creamy avocado and spicy shrimp pair perfectly with the seasoned sushi rice, creating a flavorful and satisfying bite. The layers add a fun twist to traditional sushi, making this dish both visually impressive and easy to eat. It’s a perfect appetizer for a dinner party, a fun family meal, or a light dinner on its own. Plus, you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste, making it as mild or as fiery as you like.

Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks

Ingredients

For the spicy shrimp:

1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon mayonnaise (preferably Japanese mayo like Kewpie)
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust for spice level)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon soy sauce

For the sushi rice:

1 cup sushi rice
1 1/4 cups water
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the stack:

1 ripe avocado, sliced
1 small cucumber, julienned
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish
Soy sauce, for drizzling (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the sushi rice: Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes. In a small bowl, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Gently fold this mixture into the cooked rice. Let the rice cool to room temperature.
Prepare the spicy shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl and toss gently until the shrimp are evenly coated in the spicy sauce. Set aside.
Assemble the sushi stacks: Using a ring mold or a round measuring cup, layer the ingredients. Start with a spoonful of seasoned sushi rice at the bottom of each mold, pressing down gently to create an even layer. Add a layer of avocado slices on top of the rice, followed by the spicy shrimp. Top with julienned cucumber for crunch.
Finish the stacks: Carefully lift the mold or measuring cup off the stack, leaving the layers intact. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions. Drizzle with a little soy sauce, if desired.
Serve: Serve the spicy shrimp sushi stacks immediately as a delicious appetizer or a light main dish.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes (for rice cooking)
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Tuna or salmon: Swap the shrimp for spicy tuna or salmon for a different sushi-inspired flavor.
Add crunch: For extra crunch, add tempura flakes, or use crispy wonton strips on top of the stack.
Spicy mayo: Make the spicy mayo by mixing more sriracha with mayo for an extra creamy kick, or add a dash of sesame oil and lime juice for a more complex flavor.
Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, replace the shrimp with crispy tofu or tempeh and add extra veggies like bell peppers or avocado.

Storage/reheating

Storage: These sushi stacks are best enjoyed immediately after assembling, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The rice may lose some texture when stored, but the flavor will still be great.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze these stacks, as the texture of the rice, avocado, and shrimp won’t hold up well once frozen.
Reheating: If you have leftover rice, you can reheat it in the microwave with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out. Avoid reheating the shrimp, as it’s best enjoyed fresh.

FAQs

1. Can I make these stacks without a ring mold?

Yes, you can use a round measuring cup or any small container with a similar shape to create the layers. Just make sure to press down firmly on each layer to hold the stack together.

2. Can I use cooked shrimp that is pre-seasoned?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use pre-seasoned or store-bought cooked shrimp. Just make sure the shrimp is not overly salty to keep the balance of flavors.

3. How do I make the sushi rice stick together better?

If the rice is too dry, try adding a bit more rice vinegar and sugar mixture to help it stick. You can also use a bit of water to moisten it slightly if needed.

4. Can I make the spicy shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the spicy shrimp and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before assembling the sushi stacks.

5. How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

To prevent the avocado from browning, you can drizzle it with a bit of lime or lemon juice before using it in the stack. This will help preserve its vibrant color.

6. Can I use a different sauce for the shrimp?

Yes, you can substitute sriracha mayo with a different sauce like teriyaki sauce or a honey-soy glaze for a different flavor profile.

7. Can I add other vegetables to the stacks?

Absolutely! You can add extra veggies like shredded carrots, radishes, or even seaweed salad for more flavor and texture.

8. How do I make the stacks more filling?

For a more substantial meal, you can add more rice to the bottom layer and make it thicker. You can also add a side of edamame or salad.

9. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free if you use tamari instead of soy sauce, or look for gluten-free sriracha mayo.

10. Can I make these sushi stacks vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the shrimp with tofu or other plant-based protein options. You can also load the stacks with extra vegetables like cucumber, avocado, or bell peppers.

Conclusion

Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are a creative and delicious take on traditional sushi, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal or appetizer. With the combination of creamy avocado, spicy shrimp, and perfectly seasoned sushi rice, each bite is a burst of flavor. These stacks are quick to prepare and are perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to elegant parties. The versatility of this recipe also allows for endless variations, making it easy to customize to your taste.