This Teriyaki Shrimp and Pineapple Rice Stack is a vibrant and mouthwatering dish that combines savory grilled shrimp with sweet pineapple and flavorful rice. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something a bit more exciting for a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The juicy shrimp marinated in a sweet-and-savory teriyaki sauce, paired with the tropical sweetness of pineapple, and served atop a bed of fragrant, seasoned rice creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Rice:
- 2 cups rice – Long-grain white rice, jasmine, or basmati work best, as they absorb the flavors from the broth and soy sauce beautifully.
- 3 cups chicken broth – Chicken broth infuses the rice with rich, savory flavor, elevating the dish from plain rice to a deeply seasoned base.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce – Adds umami, saltiness, and depth to the rice.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Imparts a nutty flavor that complements the soy sauce and adds a subtle richness to the rice.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – A touch of garlic powder rounds out the savory flavor of the rice.
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – Use large or jumbo shrimp for a more satisfying bite. Shrimp cook quickly and absorb the marinade’s flavor, making them perfect for this dish.
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce – Sweet and salty teriyaki sauce gives the shrimp that essential, bold, savory flavor.
- 1 tablespoon honey – Adds a touch of natural sweetness that balances the salty teriyaki and enhances the caramelization during grilling.
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger – Fresh ginger adds a zingy, aromatic warmth that perfectly complements the shrimp’s sweetness and the teriyaki sauce.
For the Pineapple:
- 1 (15 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained – Sweet and tangy pineapple gives the dish a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory shrimp and rice. The canned pineapple is convenient, but fresh pineapple can also be used for a more intense flavor.
Instructions
1. Cook the Rice:
- In a large pot, bring 3 cups of chicken broth to a boil. The broth adds flavor and richness to the rice.
- Stir in the 2 cups of rice, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder. The soy sauce will season the rice while the sesame oil adds a lovely nutty aroma.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed all the flavors. Be sure to keep the lid on to trap the steam and ensure the rice cooks evenly. Once done, fluff with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a medium bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, honey, and grated ginger.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, ensuring that they’re fully coated in the marinade.
- Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes, though longer (up to 30 minutes) will deepen the flavor. The honey in the marinade helps caramelize the shrimp as they cook, adding a beautiful glaze and a touch of sweetness.
3. Grill the Shrimp:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Once hot, place the marinated shrimp on the grill, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them – shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if left too long. You should see some lovely grill marks and slight caramelization on the shrimp.
4. Assemble the Stack:
- Once the rice is cooked, and the shrimp is ready, it’s time to assemble the dish.
- Start by layering the rice at the bottom of your serving dish or individual plates. The rice will act as a hearty base for the shrimp and pineapple, absorbing the flavors while remaining fragrant.
- Add the grilled shrimp on top of the rice, arranging them neatly in a stack.
- Scatter the drained pineapple chunks over the top of the shrimp. The pineapple adds a burst of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors.
5. Serve:
- Garnish the stack with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side to add a citrusy zing that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Optional Sides and Variations:
- For added heat, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha into the teriyaki marinade for a spicy kick.
- Swap rice with quinoa or couscous if you’re looking for a gluten-free or lower-carb option. Quinoa adds a nutty flavor, while couscous has a delicate texture that will pair nicely with the shrimp and pineapple.
- Add veggies: Pair the dish with a side of steamed vegetables (such as broccoli or asparagus) or a light side salad for a balanced, fresh meal.
Tips for Extra Flavor:
- Grill marks: If you’re using a grill pan, make sure it’s properly preheated for those beautiful sear marks. This adds extra flavor and texture to the shrimp.
- For a smoky touch: Try adding a tiny bit of smoked paprika to the shrimp marinade for an earthy depth.
- For a more tropical twist, top with toasted coconut flakes or sliced avocado for added creaminess.
This Teriyaki Shrimp and Pineapple Rice Stack is a perfect harmony of flavors that brings together savory, sweet, and tangy elements. The contrast between the juicy shrimp, tender rice, and refreshing pineapple makes each bite a delicious experience. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish will be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the tropical flavors in every bite!