Imagine diving into a culinary adventure that combines the best of Japanese cuisine with a modern, health-conscious twist! These Mini Salmon Sushi Bakes are not just a meal – they're a flavor explosion that will transform your home cooking experience. Perfect for those seeking gluten-free and dairy-free options, this recipe brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a show-stopping dish that's as beautiful as it is delectable!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 lb salmon, cooked and flaked
- 1/4 cup gluten-free soy sauce
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 sheet nori, cut into strips
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the sushi rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch.
- In a rice cooker or medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 1/2 cups of water. Cook according to rice cooker instructions or bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- While rice is cooking, prepare the salmon by flaking cooked salmon into small pieces in a mixing bowl.
- Add gluten-free soy sauce to the flaked salmon and gently mix to combine, ensuring even seasoning.
- Once rice is cooked, let it cool slightly and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Gently fold the rice to help it cool and release steam.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, spread the cooked rice evenly as a base layer, pressing it down gently to create a compact foundation.
- Layer the seasoned salmon evenly over the rice, creating a uniform topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the top is slightly golden and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Top with sliced avocado, chopped green onions, nori strips, and sprinkle sesame seeds over the dish.
- Cut into small portions and serve warm as mini sushi bakes.
Tips
- Rice Perfection: The key to an amazing sushi bake is perfectly cooked rice. Rinse your rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and achieve that ideal sticky texture.
- Salmon Selection: Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor. If possible, choose wild-caught salmon for maximum nutritional benefits.
- Even Layering: When spreading rice and salmon, use the back of a spoon to create even, compact layers for consistent cooking and presentation.
- Crispy Top Secret: For an extra crispy top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the rice and salmon mixture in advance, making this a perfect make-ahead dish for entertaining.
- Garnish Game: Don't skip the fresh garnishes! The avocado, green onions, and sesame seeds add crucial texture and flavor complexity.
- Serving Tip: Serve immediately after cooling to enjoy the perfect balance of warm, crispy exterior and tender interior.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 65mg
