Spicy Mayo Shrimp Rice
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily customize the toppings and spice level to suit your preferences. Second, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Third, the combination of tender shrimp, creamy spicy mayo, and fresh vegetables offers a balanced and complete meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Finally, it’s a fun and exciting way to enjoy a fusion of flavors that will appeal to everyone at the table.
Introduction
Spicy Mayo Shrimp Rice Bowls are inspired by a fusion of Asian and American flavors, combining the simplicity of a rice bowl with the kick of spicy mayo commonly found in sushi restaurants. The concept is simple: perfectly cooked rice topped with seasoned shrimp, a variety of fresh vegetables, and a generous drizzle of spicy mayo. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great option for entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. The balance of textures and flavors—creamy, crunchy, spicy, and savory—creates a harmonious dish that is hard to resist.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For the Spicy Mayo:
½ cup mayonnaise
1–2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon lime juice
For the Rice Bowl Base:
2 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for added flavor)
Toppings:
1 cup shredded carrots
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup cucumber slices
2 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)
Soy sauce or tamari for drizzling (optional)
Prep:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by peeling and deveining the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because dry shrimp will sear better, resulting in a more flavorful dish. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss the shrimp in this mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 10-15 minutes, which allows the flavors to penetrate and enhance the overall taste.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the shrimp marinates, prepare the rice. Cook 2 cups of jasmine or brown rice according to the package instructions. For an added layer of flavor, stir in 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar into the hot rice. This adds a subtle tanginess that complements the other flavors in the bowl. Keep the rice warm until ready to assemble the bowls.
Step 3: Make the Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha (adjust to your spice preference), and 1 teaspoon of lime juice. Mix until well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust the amount of sriracha to achieve your desired spice level. The lime juice adds a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the mayonnaise and the heat of the sriracha.
Step 4: Prepare the Toppings
Wash and prepare all the toppings. Shred the carrots, slice the avocado and cucumber, and chop the green onions. Having all the toppings ready to go makes the assembly process quick and efficient. Consider adding other toppings such as edamame, kimchi, or pickled ginger for extra variety and flavor.
Step 5: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot and the oil is shimmering, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature and steam the shrimp instead of searing them. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
COOK Rating: 5/5
Serving Suggestions:
Spicy Mayo Shrimp Rice Bowls are delicious on their own but can also be paired with a side of miso soup or a light salad. For an extra touch, consider serving with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of soy sauce or tamari. These bowls are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack.
Tips:
For best results, use fresh, high-quality shrimp.
Adjust the amount of sriracha in the spicy mayo to suit your personal spice preference.
Feel free to customize the toppings based on your favorite vegetables and flavors.
To save time, cook the rice in advance.
If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute with a splash of lemon juice or white vinegar.
For a healthier option, use brown rice and light mayonnaise.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information:
Calories: Approximately 550-650 per serving (depending on toppings and portion sizes)
Protein: 30-35 grams
Sodium: 500-700 mg
Conclusion
Spicy Mayo Shrimp Rice Bowls are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and balanced meal. With their combination of succulent shrimp, fluffy rice, creamy spicy mayo, and fresh vegetables, these bowls are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious dish, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and flavors to make it your own!
Write 5 questions and answers about this recipe.
Question 1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Answer: Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Place the frozen shrimp in a colander under cold running water until they are fully thawed. Pat them dry with paper towels before marinating and cooking to ensure they sear properly.
Question 2: What if I don’t have smoked paprika? Can I use regular paprika?
Answer: Yes, you can substitute regular paprika if you don’t have smoked paprika. However, keep in mind that smoked paprika adds a unique smoky flavor to the shrimp, which enhances the overall taste. If using regular paprika, consider adding a pinch of smoked salt to compensate for the lack of smokiness.
Question 3: Can I make the spicy mayo in advance?
Answer: Absolutely! In fact, making the spicy mayo in advance allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful sauce. You can store the spicy mayo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using.
Question 4: What other toppings can I add to the rice bowls?
Answer: The possibilities are endless when it comes to toppings! Some great additions include edamame, kimchi, pickled ginger, seaweed salad, sliced radishes, bean sprouts, or even a fried egg. Feel free to get creative and use whatever vegetables and flavors you enjoy.
Question 5: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Answer: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian or vegan. Instead of shrimp, you can use tofu, tempeh, or even roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes. For the spicy mayo, use a vegan mayonnaise alternative. The rest of the recipe can remain the same, ensuring a delicious and satisfying plant-based meal.
Spicy Mayo Shrimp Rice Bowls
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Begin by peeling and deveining the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because dry shrimp will sear better, resulting in a more flavorful dish. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss the shrimp in this mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 10-15 minutes, which allows the flavors to penetrate and enhance the overall taste.
- Step 2: Cook the Rice
- While the shrimp marinates, prepare the rice. Cook 2 cups of jasmine or brown rice according to the package instructions. For an added layer of flavor, stir in 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar into the hot rice. This adds a subtle tanginess that complements the other flavors in the bowl. Keep the rice warm until ready to assemble the bowls.
- Step 3: Make the Spicy Mayo
- In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha (adjust to your spice preference), and 1 teaspoon of lime juice. Mix until well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust the amount of sriracha to achieve your desired spice level. The lime juice adds a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the mayonnaise and the heat of the sriracha.
- Step 4: Prepare the Toppings
- Wash and prepare all the toppings. Shred the carrots, slice the avocado and cucumber, and chop the green onions. Having all the toppings ready to go makes the assembly process quick and efficient. Consider adding other toppings such as edamame, kimchi, or pickled ginger for extra variety and flavor.
- Step 5: Sauté the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot and the oil is shimmering, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature and steam the shrimp instead of searing them. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
