Ultimate Spicy Mayo Shrimp Bowl Recipe: Tips & Serving Ideas

We’ve all had those days when we’re craving something that hits the perfect balance between spicy, creamy, and utterly delicious. That’s where our spicy mayo shrimp bowl comes into play. It’s a dish that’s not only bursting with flavors but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or when you simply need a tasty pick-me-up.

Originating from a fusion of flavors that embody both comfort and excitement, this recipe brings together succulent shrimp, a kick of spice, and the creamy goodness of mayo, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s a combination that promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. So, let’s dive into making this delightful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Let’s gather the ingredients needed to bring our spicy mayo shrimp bowl to life. Each component adds its own unique touch, ensuring every bite is as flavorful as it is satisfying.

For the Spicy Mayo

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Shrimp

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups cooked rice
1 avocado, sliced
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 cup sliced red onion
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Lime wedges, for serving

Required Equipment

To ensure our spicy mayo shrimp bowl comes together seamlessly, having the right equipment on hand is key. We’ve found that having these tools ready makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Skillet or Frying Pan: This is essential for cooking the shrimp to perfection, ensuring they’re nicely seared on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of these, one for mixing the spicy mayo and another for marinating the shrimp. Opt for sizes that give you enough room to mix comfortably.
Measuring Spoons and Cups: Precision matters when balancing the flavors of our spicy mayo and seasoning the shrimp. Having these will guarantee that every bite is as delicious as intended.
Whisk: For combining the mayo, Sriracha sauce, lime juice, honey, and garlic powder into that irresistible, creamy sauce, a whisk will make sure there are no lumps.
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: These are vital for prepping the avocado, cucumber, and red onion. A sharp knife will help you make quick and clean cuts, while a spacious cutting board provides ample room for all your ingredients.
Spatula or Tongs: When it’s time to flip the shrimp or transfer them to a plate, having a sturdy spatula or a pair of tongs makes the task easier and safer.
Rice Cooker or Pot: Depending on your preference for cooking rice, you’ll need either a rice cooker for convenience or a pot for the stovetop method. This is where you’ll cook the rice until it’s perfectly fluffy, serving as the base of our dish.
Serving Bowls: Finally, you’ll want to have some bowls that not only show off the vibrant colors of this dish but also comfortably hold all the components of our spicy mayo shrimp bowl together.

With these pieces of equipment ready, we’re all set to dive into making this incredibly flavorful and satisfying dish. Moving on, we’ll get into the heart of the recipe, starting with prepping our ingredients.

Make-Ahead Instructions

To make the spicy mayo shrimp bowl even more accessible on busy days, follow our make-ahead instructions to prep components of the dish in advance.

Preparing the Rice

Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions or using your preferred method. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerated, the rice will stay fresh and fluffy for up to 3 days. For an extra touch of flavor, consider stirring in a teaspoon of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar to the cooked rice once it’s cooled. This step is optional but can add a subtle depth of flavor that complements the spicy mayo shrimp perfectly.

Marinating the Shrimp

For the shrimp, whisk together the marinade ingredients as listed in the recipe, including the spicy mayo components for that kick of flavor. Coat the shrimp thoroughly in the marinade. Then, transfer the shrimp to a ziplock bag or a container with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure to remove as much air as possible if using a bag to prevent freezer burn. The shrimp can be marinated and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. If you’d like to prep the shrimp further in advance, they can be frozen in their marinade. Lay the bag flat in the freezer, and when you’re ready to cook, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight. This method not only infuses the shrimp with more flavor but also streamlines your cooking process on the day of serving.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the heart of our spicy mayo shrimp bowl recipe, where every step brings us closer to a delightful meal. Here’s how we’re going to bring all the components together.

Cooking the Rice

Begin by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine or sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, ensuring it’s free from any excess starch.
Combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
Gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving. This base will perfectly complement the spicy and savory flavors of our shrimp.

Preparing the Spicy Mayo

In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise with 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha sauce, depending on your heat preference.
Add 1 teaspoon of soy sauce and 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil to the mixture for an umami depth and a hint of nuttiness.
Whisk until well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt if necessary. Set aside for later use, allowing the flavors to meld.

Pat dry 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This is key for achieving a nice sear.
Toss the shrimp in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of the prepared spicy mayo, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil, swirling to coat the bottom.
Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook without moving them for about 2 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until they’re pink and opaque.
Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and drizzle them with some more spicy mayo to taste.

With our rice fluffy, spicy mayo ready, and shrimp cooked to perfection, all that’s left is assembling our bowls and adding our favorite toppings.

Assembling the Spicy Mayo Shrimp Bowl

Now that we’ve cooked our fluffy rice and spicy mayo shrimp to perfection, it’s time to bring everything together into a delightful bowl that’s bursting with flavors and textures.

Layering the Base

Let’s start by preparing our bowls. Scoop an even amount of fluffy rice into each bowl, spreading it out to create a solid base. The rice not only acts as a foundation but also soaks up the delicious flavors of the toppings. Aim for about half to three-quarters of a cup of rice per bowl, ensuring there’s enough room for the shrimp and all the toppings.

Adding the Shrimp

Once the rice is evenly distributed, it’s time to add our star ingredient, the spicy mayo shrimp. Arrange the shrimp neatly on top of the rice. Depending on the size of your bowl, three to five shrimp per serving should suffice. The shrimp should be at room temperature to maintain the balance of textures and temperatures in our bowl.

Topping with Spicy Mayo

With the shrimp now sitting proudly atop the rice, drizzle a generous amount of the spicy mayo over the shrimp. The mayo serves as the creamy, spicy glue that binds all the flavors together. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste preference, but a tablespoon or two per bowl should create a nice balance without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Garnishing

For the finishing touches, let’s sprinkle a bit of sliced green onions and a handful of crispy fried onions over each bowl. These garnishes not only add a fresh crunch but also a burst of flavor that complements the spicy mayo and shrimp beautifully. If you like, a squeeze of fresh lime juice over everything can bring an added zest that ties all the flavors together. Finally, if you’re a fan of extra heat, a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes will seal the deal.

Serving Suggestions

After assembling your spicy mayo shrimp bowls with careful attention to the balance of flavors and textures, consider complementing them with a few well-chosen sides to round out the meal. Here are our top picks for serving alongside these delectable bowls:

Crisp Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing adds a fresh, crisp component to the meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the spicy and savory flavors of the shrimp bowl.
Vegetable Stir-fry: Whip up a quick vegetable stir-fry with your favorite seasonal veggies. The slight crunch and vibrant colors of stir-fried vegetables make a delicious and healthy addition.
Miso Soup: For those who enjoy a touch of Japanese cuisine, serving miso soup as a starter can introduce a warm, umami-rich element that pairs beautifully with the spicy mayo shrimp.
Pickled Vegetables: Quick pickled cucumbers or radishes offer a tangy and slightly sweet crunch that cuts through the richness of the spicy mayo, adding an exciting layer of flavor.
Sushi Rolls: If you’re looking to elevate the meal further, consider preparing simple sushi rolls or sushi rice balls as a companion to your shrimp bowls. This can turn your meal into a festive sushi night.
Edamame: Steamed and lightly salted edamame beans are a great way to start the meal. Their natural sweetness and satisfying bite make them a favorite appetizer that’s also packed with nutrition.

By choosing one or more of these serving suggestions, you’ll ensure your spicy mayo shrimp bowl meal is not only delicious but also beautifully balanced. The complementary sides not only add variety in texture and flavor but also transform your meal into a more comprehensive dining experience. Enjoy crafting a meal that delights the senses and brings a touch of culinary artistry to your table.

Storage and Reheating

Ensuring your spicy mayo shrimp bowls keep their delightful taste and texture is key for enjoying leftovers. Here’s how to properly store and reheat this dish, maintaining its quality and ensuring a delicious second round.

Storage Instructions

Cool Down: Allow the spicy mayo shrimp and cooked rice to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents moisture from building up and making the rice mushy.
Separate Containers: If possible, store the rice, shrimp, and toppings in separate airtight containers. This keeps the ingredients fresh and prevents the flavors from melding too much in the fridge.
Spicy Mayo: Keep the spicy mayo in a separate small container or a squeeze bottle if you have one. This way, you can easily add a fresh dollop of mayo when you reheat the dish.
Refrigeration: Once all components are properly cooled and stored in airtight containers, place them in the refrigerator. The shrimp and rice should keep for up to 3 days.

Rice: The best way to reheat rice is by adding a tablespoon of water per cup of rice, covering it, and heating it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until it’s steamy and hot. This helps to restore the rice’s moisture.
Shrimp: Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over medium heat with a little bit of oil or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. Be cautious not to overcook it to avoid making the shrimp rubbery.
Combining: After reheating the rice and shrimp, combine them in a bowl and top with fresh toppings if available. This revives the essence of the freshly made bowl.
Spicy Mayo: Give the spicy mayo a good stir or a shake if it’s in a bottle. If it appears too thick, you can thin it with a little bit of water or lemon juice. Drizzle it over your reheated bowl for that creamy, spicy kick.

By following these storage and reheating tips, your spicy mayo shrimp bowl will be nearly as enticing as when it was first prepared. It’s all about preserving the textures and flavors to keep the dish enjoyable even on the second or third day. Enjoy your meal as if it’s freshly made, every time.

Conclusion

We’ve shared our secrets for creating a mouth-watering spicy mayo shrimp bowl that’s sure to impress. By following our step-by-step guide and pairing it with our suggested sides, you’re in for a culinary treat that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Remember our tips for storing and reheating to keep enjoying this dish at its best. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick lunch or a special dinner, this recipe promises a burst of flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get cooking and make mealtime exciting again!

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