A Sweet and Savory Island-Inspired Dinner That’s Bursting with Flavor
Looking to bring tropical flavors into your kitchen? This Teriyaki Shrimp and Pineapple Rice Stack combines the bold taste of teriyaki-glazed shrimp, sweet pineapple chunks, and aromatic rice—all stacked beautifully for a meal that’s as visually impressive as it is delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Introduction
Sometimes, dinner needs to go beyond the basics and offer something special—something that excites the senses and brings a burst of flavor to the table. Enter the Teriyaki Shrimp and Pineapple Rice Stack. This stunning dish is layered with tender rice, juicy grilled shrimp, and sweet pineapple chunks. The star of the dish is the shrimp, marinated in a bold teriyaki-honey sauce with a hint of fresh ginger, then grilled to smoky perfection.
With its tropical flair and comforting textures, this meal is ideal for family dinners, small gatherings, or even a flavorful weeknight indulgence. It’s a wholesome, well-rounded meal featuring protein, carbs, and fruit—delivered in a presentation that’s simple yet restaurant-worthy.
Tools Needed, Number of People, and Cooking Time
Tools You’ll Need:
- Large pot with lid (for cooking rice)
- Mixing bowls
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Spoon or spatula (for stacking/serving)
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Rice
- 400 g long-grain rice (about 2 cups)
- 720 ml chicken broth (about 3 cups)
- 60 ml soy sauce (1/4 cup)
- 15 ml toasted sesame oil (1 tablespoon)
- 1.25 ml garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon)
For the Shrimp
- 450 g shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 1 pound)
- 60 ml teriyaki sauce (1/4 cup)
- 15 ml honey (1 tablespoon)
- 2.5 ml freshly grated ginger (1/2 teaspoon)
For the Pineapple Stack
- 425 g pineapple chunks, drained (about 1 can or 2 cups fresh)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Flavored Rice
Start by bringing 3 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. Once boiling, add the long-grain rice, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and garlic powder. Stir everything together to combine.
Cover the pot tightly with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is fully tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
While the rice is cooking, prepare your shrimp. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, and freshly grated ginger. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss well until all shrimp are coated in the marinade.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in. If you have more time, you can marinate for up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Grill the Shrimp
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer and grill for 2–3 minutes per side. You’re looking for a light char and an opaque center—the shrimp should be fully cooked through but still tender and juicy.
Remove the shrimp from the grill and set aside.
Step 4: Stack the Components
Now comes the fun part—assembling the stack. On each serving plate, start by spooning a generous layer of the warm, fragrant rice. Top with several grilled shrimp, followed by a portion of pineapple chunks. You can arrange them neatly or go for a rustic, piled-high look.
For added elegance, use a food ring or bowl mold to compress the rice into a neat circle, layering the shrimp and pineapple on top for an elevated presentation.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the stacks immediately while warm. You can drizzle extra teriyaki sauce over the top for added flavor or garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds if desired.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
- Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw thoroughly and pat dry before marinating.
- Don’t skip the marinade time—this is essential to infuse the shrimp with that sweet-savory teriyaki flavor.
- Use pineapple in juice, not syrup, if you’re using canned pineapple. The juice provides natural sweetness without overpowering the savory elements.
- Grill on high heat quickly to lock in the moisture and achieve that slight caramelization on the shrimp.
- Let the rice rest for a few minutes before fluffing to help absorb any remaining moisture and develop its final texture.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a light cucumber salad, steamed edamame, or miso soup for a complete meal.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side to add a bright citrus note that cuts through the sweetness.
- Want a spicier version? Add a drizzle of sriracha mayo or sprinkle with chili flakes.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, use the microwave or stovetop. Add a splash of broth or water to keep the rice from drying out.
- Do not freeze the assembled stack, as the pineapple and shrimp may become mushy after thawing. If needed, freeze the rice and shrimp separately for up to one month.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
Absolutely. This recipe works well with grilled chicken, tofu, or even seared scallops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and ensure your protein is well-marinated.
2. Can I use brown rice or jasmine rice instead of long-grain rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and may require more liquid. Jasmine rice will have a more aromatic flavor, which pairs beautifully with pineapple and shrimp.
3. Is this dish spicy?
No, the flavor is sweet and savory with hints of ginger. If you’d like to add heat, feel free to incorporate sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or red pepper flakes into the marinade or as a garnish.
4. Can I prepare this meal in advance?
Yes. You can cook the rice and marinate the shrimp ahead of time. Keep them in the refrigerator separately and grill the shrimp just before serving. This makes it easy to prep for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
5. What’s a good drink to pair with this dish?
This tropical-inspired dish pairs well with iced green tea, pineapple juice, or a light white wine like Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc.
Conclusion
The Teriyaki Shrimp and Pineapple Rice Stack is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings a taste of the tropics right into your kitchen. It’s perfect for when you want something that feels both indulgent and nourishing—a colorful stack of perfectly grilled shrimp, sweet pineapple, and umami-rich rice that hits every note on your taste buds.
Easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, this dish is sure to become a regular in your rotation. With its blend of simple ingredients, bold flavors, and eye-catching presentation, it’s a meal that never fails to impress.
Ready to wow your dinner table? Fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and dive into this irresistible recipe tonight. Your taste buds will thank you!
