Sushi bake

A casserole-style dish inspired by sushi

Sushi bake is a modern culinary creation that combines elements of traditional sushi with the convenience and comfort of a baked casserole. This dish has gained popularity for its simplicity and the ability to serve sushi flavors in a warm, hearty format.

Overview

Sushi bake is typically prepared by layering ingredients commonly found in sushi, such as rice, seafood, and vegetables, in a baking dish. The dish is then baked in an oven until the top is golden and the ingredients are heated through. It is often served with nori sheets or seaweed snacks, which are used to scoop up the baked mixture, mimicking the experience of eating traditional sushi rolls.

An uncooked sushi bake ready for the oven

Ingredients

The ingredients for sushi bake can vary widely, but they typically include:

• Rice: Short-grain Japanese rice is commonly used, seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to mimic the flavor of sushi rice.
• Seafood: Common choices include imitation crab, salmon, or tuna. These are often mixed with mayonnaise and cream cheese to create a creamy texture.
• Vegetables: Cucumber, avocado, and scallions are popular additions, providing freshness and crunch.
• Toppings: Furikake, a Japanese seasoning made of dried fish, sesame seeds, and seaweed, is often sprinkled on top for added flavor.

Preparation

To prepare sushi bake, the rice is first cooked and seasoned. It is then spread evenly in a baking dish. The seafood mixture, often combined with mayonnaise and cream cheese, is layered on top of the rice. Additional toppings, such as furikake, are sprinkled over the top. The dish is baked in a preheated oven until the top is slightly browned and the ingredients are heated through.

Serving

Sushi bake is typically served hot, with sheets of nori on the side. Diners use the nori to scoop up portions of the bake, creating a hand-held sushi experience. This method of serving makes sushi bake a popular choice for gatherings and potlucks, as it is easy to share and enjoy.

Variations

There are numerous variations of sushi bake, allowing for creativity and adaptation to personal tastes. Some variations include:

• Spicy Sushi Bake: Incorporating sriracha or other hot sauces into the seafood mixture for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Sushi Bake: Omitting seafood and using ingredients like tofu or additional vegetables.
• Fusion Sushi Bake: Incorporating non-traditional ingredients such as cheese or bacon for a unique twist.

Related pages

• Sushi
• Casserole
• Japanese cuisine