Name: Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked sushi rice; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; ½ teaspoon sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; 12 oz skinless salmon fillet, cooked and flaked; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 sheets roasted seaweed (nori), cut into small squares; 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

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Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake is a unique twist on traditional sushi. It offers all the delicious flavors of sushi in a simple, baked dish. This recipe combines warm, seasoned sushi rice with tender, flaked salmon and rich, creamy sauces. The dish is easy to prepare and serves as a great option for parties, family gatherings, or cozy nights in. With each bite, you get a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to try out this Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake. First, it is incredibly easy to make. Unlike rolling sushi, which can be tricky, this recipe requires no special skills. You simply layer the ingredients in a baking dish.

Second, it’s a versatile dish. You can adjust the spiciness by changing the amount of Sriracha sauce used. This means you can cater to your family’s tastes. Additionally, this recipe is perfect for those who love sushi but may not want to eat raw fish. By cooking the salmon, you ensure that everyone can enjoy it safely.

Another great reason to make this recipe is that it is crowd-pleasing. This Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake can serve many people. It is a great dish for potlucks or gatherings. Everyone loves the melty cheese and spicy salmon combination. Plus, serving it with roasted seaweed squares makes it fun and interactive.

Finally, this dish is ideal for using leftovers or extra ingredients. If you have cooked salmon from another meal, this is a great way to repurpose it. You can also customize the sauce or toppings based on what you have at home.

How to Make Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake

Making Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake is straightforward. You will need a few simple ingredients and some easy steps to follow.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked sushi rice
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
½ teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt
12 oz skinless salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 sheets roasted seaweed (nori), cut into small squares
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your dish bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. This will help prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom and make it easier to serve later.
Mix the Sushi Rice: In a bowl, combine the cooked sushi rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Mix it well so that the rice gets fully seasoned. Press this rice mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will create a solid base for your ingredients.
Make the Spicy Salmon Mixture: In another bowl, mix together the flaked salmon, mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Ensure it is mixed well, as this will be the flavorful topping for your rice layer.
Layer the Ingredients: Spread the spicy salmon mixture evenly over the rice layer. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. This cheese will melt beautifully and add a delicious creaminess to the bake.
Bake the Dish: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it as it bakes to make sure it doesn’t burn.
Cool and Garnish: Once it’s done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will ensure that it is easier to serve. Garnish the top with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
Serve: Serve your Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake warm. Provide roasted seaweed squares on the side for scooping up the delicious mixture.

How to Serve Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake

This Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake is best served warm right out of the oven. As you dish it out, allow each person to scoop some of the spicy salmon mixture and rice onto a piece of roasted seaweed. This interactive way of eating makes it fun and enjoyable for everyone.

You can also pair it with a simple side salad or some pickled vegetables. These sides can complement the rich flavors of the bake and provide a refreshing balance. Another great option is to serve it with a light dipping sauce, like soy sauce or extra Sriracha, for those who enjoy more spice.

How to Store Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake

If you have leftovers, you can store them easily. Place any uneaten portions in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning. Heat it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave; just be cautious to not overcook it for the best taste.

Tips to Make Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake

Cook the Salmon Perfectly: If you’re unsure how to cook the salmon, you can poach, grill, or bake it until it flakes easily with a fork. This will enhance the flavor and texture in your dish.
Use Day-Old Rice: Day-old sushi rice works well for this bake. It is a bit firmer and will help the layers stay together when baked.
Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your heat preference. You can even try other sauces like spicy mayo for a different flavor.
Cheese Variation: While mozzarella is used here, you can also try using cream cheese or another melty cheese like Monterey Jack for a different taste.
Add Vegetables: To make it healthier, consider adding diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots into the salmon mixture for additional texture and flavor.

Variation

If you want a different flavor profile, consider a Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake instead. Replace the Sriracha sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter taste. You can also switch the toppings, using ingredients like avocado or cucumber for freshness. Try adding crushed seaweed on top for extra crunch or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for an added kick.

FAQs

Can I use raw salmon in this recipe?

Yes, you can use raw salmon, but it is important to ensure it is sushi-grade and safe for consumption. However, to make this recipe easier, using cooked salmon is recommended.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and salmon mixture a day ahead. Just assemble it in the baking dish and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to eat, bake it as directed.

Can I freeze the Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake?

Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake until heated through.

This Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake is not only delicious but also fun to make. With its layers of flavors and textures, it is sure to be a hit at any meal. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish!

Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake

Why Make This Recipe