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This Teriyaki Shrimp Pineapple Rice Stack brings bright pineapple, juicy shrimp, and savory rice together for a showstopping dish that always feels like a summer celebration. Each bite gives you sweet tang from the fruit, delicate crunch from perfectly grilled shrimp, and a rice base packed with umami flavors.
The first time I made this, it was a last-minute weeknight dinner using leftover grilled shrimp. Now my partner asks for it every time fresh pineapple appears in our fruit bowl.
Ingredients
- Long-grain rice: gives a fluffy, separate base and soaks up all the sauce flavors Look for grains that are uniform and not cracked
- Chicken broth: provides rich, savory depth Opt for low sodium if you prefer less salt
- Soy sauce: infuses the rice with salty umami Choose a naturally brewed variety for the best taste
- Toasted sesame oil: adds a nutty aroma Always check that the oil is golden and smells fragrant not burnt
- Garlic powder: builds a quick background flavor Pick a fresh powder without lumps
- Shrimp: peeled and deveined are the stars Fresh or frozen jumbo shrimp work best for juicy results Always sniff for freshness and avoid any shrimpy odor
- Teriyaki sauce: coats the shrimp with sweet and savory glaze Try a thick style with real ginger and soy
- Honey: brings a touch of balancing sweetness Opt for local raw honey for extra floral notes
- Freshly grated ginger: gives zing and warmth Look for plump firm roots without wrinkles
- Pineapple chunks: offer juicy bites and natural sweetness Choose ripe pineapples that are golden on the outside and feel heavy for their size
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Rice:
- Bring chicken broth to a lively boil in a large heavy pot Stir in your rinsed rice soy sauce toasted sesame oil and garlic powder Lower the heat tightly cover and cook on low for 20 to 25 minutes or until all the liquid disappears and the rice grains are fluffy and separate Letting it steam undisturbed helps every grain cook perfectly
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- Whisk together teriyaki sauce honey and freshly grated ginger in a medium bowl Toss cleaned shrimp well so every piece gets coated Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes allowing flavors to soak in
- Grill the Shrimp:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan on medium high Spread out the marinated shrimp in a single layer Sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink curl naturally and show golden grill marks This quick grilling keeps them juicy
- Assemble the Stack:
- Spoon a generous base of rice onto a platter or bowl Top with a layer of grilled shrimp then nestle juicy pineapple chunks over everything The colors should pop and the stack should look abundant
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Present the stack immediately so the shrimp stay hot and the pineapple is bright Serve straight from the dish for an eye catching main course
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Whenever I caramelize the pineapple just a bit on the grill the flavors sweeten extra and feel almost tropical It reminds me of my childhood summers picking fruit in my grandparents backyard and always adds a warm memory to every bite
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days Reheat gently in the microwave just until warm to keep the shrimp tender Avoid freezing as the shrimp and pineapple can become mushy
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap rice for cooked quinoa or couscous for a new texture If you are out of fresh ginger try a small pinch of ground dried ginger Use tofu cubes in place of shrimp for a vegetarian twist
Serving Suggestions
Pile this stack onto lettuce leaves for a fun appetizer Spread everything across a large platter for a family style meal I love pairing it with a big green salad or quick steamed snap peas
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Cultural and Historical Context
Teriyaki gets its roots in Japanese grilling techniques and has spread globally for its sweet savory combination Hawaiian cuisine often blends teriyaki flavors with tropical fruit like pineapple bringing this dish into a fusion of different tastes and traditions
Common Queries
- → Can I substitute the rice with another grain?
Yes, you can replace long-grain rice with quinoa or couscous for a different texture and flavor profile. Adjust the cooking time according to the alternative grain chosen.
- → How long should I marinate the shrimp?
Marinate the shrimp for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. For a bolder taste, you can marinate them for up to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- → Is it necessary to grill the shrimp?
Grilling gives the shrimp a lightly charred flavor and appealing texture, but you can also sauté or broil them if a grill is not available.
- → What side dishes pair well with this stack?
Pair with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables to complement the savory and sweet elements in the main layers for a balanced meal.
- → How can I add spice to the dish?
Add red pepper flakes to the shrimp marinade or garnish the completed stack with sliced chilis for a spicy kick.