📖 Instructions

1. First things first, let's get that shrimp marinating! In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, chili garlic sauce (or sriracha, if you prefer a milder kick), and a drizzle of honey. This marinade is going to infuse the shrimp with so much flavor; you'll be amazed!
2. Now, gently toss the raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp into the marinade, ensuring each piece is nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes. I usually let mine sit for about 30 minutes, just enough time to prep the other ingredients.
3. While the shrimp is marinating, let’s get the rice ready. If you're using sushi rice (which I highly recommend!), rinse it thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps the rice cook up fluffy and perfect.
4. Cook the rice according to package instructions. For most sushi rice, this involves simmering it in a pot with water (usually a 1:1 ratio) until all the water is absorbed. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool slightly before assembling your poke bowl.
5. Time to prepare the other goodies! Dice the avocado into bite-sized cubes, thinly slice the scallions, and chop the cucumber into small rounds. If you're using edamame, either buy it shelled or steam it until tender and pop the beans out of their pods. These fresh ingredients add texture and vibrant flavor to the poke bowl, so don't skimp!
6. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of sesame oil. Once the pan is hot, carefully add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, or the shrimp will steam instead of sear.
7. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. The sesame garlic marinade will caramelize beautifully, creating a sticky, savory coating. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to cool slightly.
8. Now for the fun part: assembling your poke bowl! Start with a base of cooked rice in a bowl. Arrange the marinated sesame garlic shrimp on top, followed by the diced avocado, sliced cucumber, edamame, and scallions. Get creative with your arrangement – the more colorful, the better!
9. For that final touch, sprinkle some sesame seeds over the bowl for added flavor and texture. If you like, you can also drizzle a bit more sesame oil or a touch of sriracha mayo for extra zing. The key is to balance the flavors and textures to your liking.
10. Finally, dig in and enjoy your homemade Sesame Garlic Shrimp Poke Sensation! Each bite should be a burst of flavor – the savory shrimp, creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and fluffy rice all working together in harmony. Trust me; you'll be making this again and again!