Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe) Recipe
If you’re looking for a fun, fresh twist on sushi that’s both approachable and utterly delicious, you have to try these Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe). This delightful dish takes all the flavors we adore in sushi—the tender, flavorful salmon, the perfectly seasoned sushi rice, and the satisfying crunch of nori—and transforms them into handheld, oven-baked bites that are as impressive as they are easy to make. Whether you’re serving them at a casual get-together or craving a fuss-free dinner that feels special, these sushi cups deliver a burst of flavor and texture in every bite. Prepare to fall in love with this viral sensation that’s just waiting to become your new favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, the magic of the Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe) lies in its simple, vibrant ingredients that come together to create something truly spectacular. Each component plays a crucial role, from the flaky salmon providing rich flavor to the sushi rice giving it that satisfying base, complemented by the punchy seasoning that brightens every bite.
- 1 lb salmon, cubed: Fresh salmon adds a tender, flaky texture and a rich, savory flavor essential for this dish.
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce: Brings a salty umami kick that livens up the salmon perfectly.
- 1 tbsp Kewpie Mayo: This creamy Japanese mayo adds richness and a hint of sweetness that balances the spice.
- 1 tbsp Sriracha: For that fiery warmth that makes the sushi cups exciting without overwhelming the palate.
- 1 tsp sesame oil: Adds a subtle nutty aroma that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
- 1 ½ cup uncooked sushi rice: The foundation of this recipe—sticky, perfectly cooked rice that holds everything together.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Gives the rice a gentle tang that cuts through the richness and adds brightness.
- 2 tsp white sugar: Balances the acidity in the rice vinegar and creates that classic sushi rice flavor.
- 3 large nori sheets: Provides a crispy, savory wrapper that keeps each cup intact and adds texture.
- Furikake, for garnish: A sprinkle of this Japanese seasoning adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor dimension.
- 1 green onion, for garnish: Fresh green onion brings a vibrant color and subtle zing on top.
- Cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking and ensures a perfect bake every time.
How to Make Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe)
Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice
Cooking sushi rice just right might seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite straightforward. Follow the package instructions for perfect rice every time. Once cooked, warm your rice vinegar and sugar in the microwave until the sugar dissolves, then gently fold this mixture into the rice. This step is key to achieving that signature sushi rice flavor—tangy, lightly sweet, and beautifully glossy.
Step 2: Mix the Salmon Filling
While the rice is resting, combine the cubed salmon with light soy sauce, Kewpie mayo, Sriracha, and sesame oil. This luscious marinade infuses the salmon with vibrant, spicy, and creamy notes. Mixing these ingredients well ensures every bite of salmon is bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Nori Cups
Cut the nori sheets into squares or rectangles that will fit perfectly inside your muffin tin. These nori pieces are the structure of your sushi cups, so make sure each piece is large enough to hold the rice and salmon filling without tearing.
Step 4: Assemble the Sushi Cups
Lightly grease your muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then place one nori square in each muffin cup. Press a spoonful of sushi rice into the nori, shaping the base and gently packing it down. Top each rice base with a generous layer of the salmon mixture. This layering not only looks stunning but ensures that each bite combines all the delicious components harmoniously.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the muffin tin into a 400-degree Fahrenheit oven and bake for 15 minutes. The heat cooks the salmon to tender, flaky perfection while slightly crisping the nori edges and caramelizing the top of the salmon filling. This baking step transforms the cups into a delightful bite-sized treat with a warm, comforting aroma.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, allow the sushi cups to cool for a few minutes. Then, drizzle a bit more Sriracha or spicy mayo over the tops for an extra kick. Finish with a sprinkle of furikake and some chopped green onions for color, texture, and that authentic Japanese vibe. Now, they’re ready to wow your guests or satisfy your sushi cravings at home.
How to Serve Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe)
Garnishes
Finishing touches make all the difference when serving these sushi cups. A sprinkle of furikake adds crunch and an umami punch, while fresh green onions bring brightness and a little contrast. You can also offer a little extra Sriracha or a drizzle of spicy mayo to dial up the heat and creaminess as desired. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and flavor, turning a casual snack into an elegant dish.
Side Dishes
Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe) pair beautifully with light, complementary sides. Consider a crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds or a bowl of miso soup for a comforting touch. Edamame beans tossed in sea salt or a simple seaweed salad also work well to round out your meal without overpowering the sushi cups.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve these sushi cups on a sleek wooden board or a colorful platter with small dipping bowls of soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side. Alternatively, you can place them in individual small dishes or bamboo steamers to enhance the Japanese theme. Garnish the platter with edible flowers or extra furikake to impress your friends and family at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of the Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to two days. To maintain the best texture, keep garnishes separate and add them just before serving.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for these sushi cups because the texture of the sushi rice and salmon can be compromised. Since this dish is best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture, plan to consume leftovers within a couple of days instead.
Reheating
To reheat, place the sushi cups on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8-10 minutes. This method gently warms the salmon and rice without making the nori soggy. Avoid microwaving, as it may affect the texture negatively.
FAQs
Can I use cooked salmon instead of raw salmon?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked salmon or prefer not to use raw fish, cubed cooked salmon works wonderfully. Just mix it with the sauces before assembling the cups.
What can I substitute for Kewpie mayo?
If you don’t have Kewpie mayo, regular mayonnaise mixed with a pinch of sugar and a small dash of rice vinegar makes a great substitute that mimics the flavor and creaminess.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce in place of light soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free while maintaining delicious umami flavor.
Can I prepare these sushi cups ahead of time for a party?
You can assemble the cups and store them in the fridge before baking, then bake right before serving. This way, your guests get fresh, warm sushi cups without stress.
What other fish or protein can I use?
While salmon is traditional and delicious, you can experiment with tuna, cooked shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for safety and texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe) that combines the best of sushi with the simplicity of baking. It’s a recipe that makes you feel like a sushi maestro without a sushi bar around. Whether you’re cooking for friends, a family dinner, or just treating yourself, these sushi cups are sure to impress and satisfy. Dive in and make this viral favorite your own—I promise it’ll become one of your most requested dishes!
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Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe) Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 sushi cups 1x
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
These Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups offer a delightful twist on traditional sushi by combining savory marinated salmon with perfectly seasoned sushi rice, all baked in crispy nori wrappers. This viral recipe is quick to prepare, visually appealing, and packed with bold flavors, making it a perfect appetizer or snack for sushi lovers and beginners alike.
Ingredients
Sushi Rice
- 1 ½ cup uncooked sushi rice
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp white sugar
Salmon Mixture
- 1 lb salmon, cubed
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Kewpie Mayo
- 1 tbsp Sriracha
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Assembly and Garnish
- 3 large nori sheets
- furikake, for garnish
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced, for garnish
- cooking spray
Instructions
- Cook the sushi rice: Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions until tender and sticky, then set it aside to cool slightly.
- Season the rice: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine rice vinegar and sugar. Microwave for about 30 seconds or until the sugar dissolves completely. Pour this mixture over the cooked rice and gently fold until the rice is evenly seasoned. Set aside while preparing the salmon.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400℉ (204℃) to preheat while assembling the sushi cups.
- Prepare the salmon mixture: In a bowl, combine cubed salmon, light soy sauce, Kewpie Mayo, Sriracha, and sesame oil. Mix thoroughly to ensure all pieces are coated well. Set aside.
- Prepare the nori sheets: Cut each nori sheet into 4 equal rectangles or squares, sized to fit comfortably into your muffin tin cups.
- Assemble the sushi cups: Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray. Place a nori square inside each muffin cup. Spoon a layer of the seasoned sushi rice into each cup, pressing down lightly to create a compact base. Top each rice layer with a generous portion of the salmon mixture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven at 400℉ for 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the tops are slightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the sushi cups from the oven and cool for a few minutes. Drizzle extra Sriracha or spicy mayo on top if desired. Garnish with furikake seasoning and chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Notes
- You can substitute salmon with cooked shrimp or crab for variation.
- Use fresh, sushi-grade salmon to ensure the best flavor and safety.
- To make the recipe less spicy, reduce or omit the Sriracha according to your preference.
- Furikake can be found in most Asian grocery stores or substituted with toasted sesame seeds.
- Make sure the rice is slightly cooled before assembling to prevent soggy nori.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sushi cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: salmon sushi cups, baked sushi cups, sushi rice recipe, easy sushi appetizer, viral sushi recipe
