Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on a Japanese Classic
Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Recipe are an exciting and visually stunning twist on traditional sushi rolls. Layers of perfectly cooked shrimp, seasoned sushi rice, fresh avocado, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, spicy sauce create a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that feels indulgent yet fresh. Unlike traditional rolls, sushi stacks are served in layers, making them easier to assemble and perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a restaurant-quality meal at home.
The combination of textures—tender shrimp, creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and soft rice—paired with the spicy kick of the sauce, makes every bite a delight. These stacks are not only delicious but also fun to make, allowing home cooks to customize the flavors and presentation. With a few simple ingredients and some creative layering, you can transform a classic sushi favorite into a stunning appetizer or main course that wows both in taste and appearance.
Ingredients Needed
The following ingredients serve approximately 4 people. Calorie counts are estimated per portion.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Sushi rice | 2 cups cooked | 480 kcal |
| Cooked shrimp | 12 large pieces | 180 kcal |
| Avocado | 1 medium, sliced | 240 kcal |
| Cucumber | 1 medium, sliced | 16 kcal |
| Carrots | 1 medium, julienned | 25 kcal |
| Nori sheets | 2 sheets, cut into strips | 20 kcal |
| Spicy mayo | ¼ cup | 200 kcal |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons | 20 kcal |
| Sesame seeds | 1 teaspoon | 25 kcal |
| Green onions | 2 stalks, sliced | 10 kcal |
| Lime juice | 1 teaspoon | 1 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the sushi rice
Cook sushi rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly and season with a small amount of rice vinegar if desired. - Cook or prepare shrimp
Use cooked shrimp or quickly sauté raw shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper until pink and fully cooked. Allow to cool slightly. - Prepare vegetables
Slice avocado, cucumber, and julienne carrots. Chop green onions and cut nori sheets into thin strips for garnish. - Assemble the sushi stacks
Using a small bowl or ring mold, start with a layer of sushi rice at the bottom. Add a layer of shrimp, followed by avocado, cucumber, and carrots. Repeat layers if desired, finishing with a drizzle of spicy mayo on top. - Garnish and serve
Sprinkle sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and nori strips over the top. Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness. Carefully lift the mold and serve immediately.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Change the protein: Substitute shrimp with cooked crab, tuna, or smoked salmon.
- Adjust spice levels: Add more or less spicy mayo to taste, or include Sriracha for extra heat.
- Add crunch: Top stacks with crispy tempura bits or roasted seaweed flakes.
- Make it vegetarian: Use tofu or roasted vegetables instead of shrimp.
- Experiment with sauces: Try ponzu, eel sauce, or avocado crema for different flavor profiles.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250–300 kcal |
| Protein | 15–18 g |
| Fat | 10–12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30–35 g |
| Fiber | 3–4 g |
| Sodium | Moderate (varies with soy sauce) |
Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are a balanced dish with lean protein, healthy fats from avocado, and carbohydrates from sushi rice, making them both satisfying and energizing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve spicy shrimp sushi stacks as an appetizer, light lunch, or dinner. Pair them with miso soup, pickled ginger, and edamame for a complete Japanese-inspired meal. A side of seaweed salad or a simple cucumber salad enhances freshness and balances the spiciness of the mayo.
Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on a Japanese Classic
4
servings15
minutes10
minutes250-300
kcalIngredients
2 cups cooked sushi rice
12 large cooked shrimp
1 medium avocado, sliced
1 medium cucumber, sliced
1 medium carrot, julienned
2 nori sheets, cut into strips
¼ cup spicy mayo
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced
1 teaspoon lime juice
Directions
- Prepare sushi rice – Cook sushi rice according to package instructions, then cool slightly. Season with rice vinegar if desired.
- Cook shrimp – Use pre-cooked shrimp or sauté raw shrimp until pink and fully cooked. Let cool.
- Prep vegetables – Slice avocado, cucumber, and julienne carrots. Chop green onions and cut nori sheets into thin strips.
- Assemble stacks – Using a small bowl or ring mold, layer sushi rice first, then shrimp, avocado, cucumber, and carrots. Repeat layers if desired.
- Add sauce – Drizzle spicy mayo on top.
- Garnish – Sprinkle with sesame seeds, green onions, and nori strips. Add a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Assemble sushi stacks just before serving to keep the rice sticky and avocado fresh.
Use pre-cooked shrimp for faster prep, or sauté raw shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper until fully cooked.
FAQs
1. Can I make Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients ahead, but it’s best to assemble the stacks just before serving to keep the rice and avocado fresh. Prepped ingredients can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 1 day.
2. Can I use raw shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely. Raw shrimp can be sautéed or steamed until fully cooked. Ensure they turn pink and opaque before layering them in the stacks.
3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace shrimp with marinated tofu, avocado, or roasted vegetables. Use vegetarian-friendly spicy mayo or a plant-based creamy sauce for the topping.
4. What is the best way to serve sushi stacks?
Serve immediately after assembling. Garnish with sesame seeds, nori strips, and green onions. A side of soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi enhances the experience.
5. Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of spicy mayo?
Yes, you can mix regular mayo with Sriracha, chili paste, or hot sauce to create a homemade spicy mayo. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
Conclusion
Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are a simple yet elegant way to enjoy sushi at home without the need for rolling mats or advanced techniques. The combination of spicy, creamy, and fresh flavors creates a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, these sushi stacks are perfect for entertaining, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want a restaurant-quality sushi experience in your own kitchen.
