Description
This Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake is a delightful fusion dish that brings together the beloved flavors of sushi in a comforting casserole form. Featuring layers of perfectly cooked sushi rice topped with a creamy and spicy salmon mixture, then baked to golden perfection, this recipe is ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy weeknight meal. The addition of green onions, nori strips, and optional tobiko adds authentic sushi flair to every bite.
Ingredients
Rice Base
- 2 cups sushi rice, uncooked
- 2.5 cups water
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Salmon Topping
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skinless and diced
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Garnishes
- 1 sheet nori, cut into small strips
- Tobiko (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the sushi casserole.
- Cook Sushi Rice: Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice with 2.5 cups of water in a rice cooker or pot and cook according to package instructions until tender.
- Prepare Vinegar Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir until all the sugar and salt are fully dissolved, creating the sushi rice seasoning.
- Season the Rice: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork. Fold in the vinegar mixture carefully without mashing the rice, to evenly season it.
- Assemble Rice Layer: Spread the seasoned sushi rice evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Allow the rice to cool slightly so it firms up and is easier to layer with the salmon mixture.
- Make Salmon Mixture: In another bowl, mix the diced salmon with mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onions. Adjust the amount of Sriracha to control spiciness based on your preference.
- Layer Salmon on Rice: Evenly spread the spicy salmon mixture over the bed of sushi rice in the baking dish, creating a uniform layer.
- Bake the Dish: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and the topping is slightly golden and bubbling.
- Garnish: Remove the bake from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped green onions, nori strips, and tobiko if using, to add color and extra flavor.
- Serve: Serve warm by scooping portions onto plates or bowls. This dish pairs well with soy sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute the fresh salmon with cooked crab meat or shrimp for a different seafood variation.
- Reduce the amount of Sriracha sauce for a milder spiciness if preferred.
- This sushi bake is best served warm and goes wonderfully with soy sauce or pickled ginger on the side.
- Make sure not to overmix the sushi rice to maintain its integrity and texture.
- For added crunch, consider sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.