Ingredients:

• 2 cans of hot & spicy tuna (drained)
• 2 cups of cooked Japanese rice
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust based on your spice preference)
• 4 tablespoons Kewpie Japanese mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Kikoman soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra spice)
• A drizzle of sesame oil
• Furikake (Japanese rice seasoning)
• Quick-melt cheese (chunks or grated)
• Seaweed sheets for serving
• Optional: sesame seeds for topping

Directions:

1. Prepare the Rice:
   • Cook 2 cups of Japanese rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, let the rice cool slightly.
   • Spread the cooked rice evenly in the bottom of a baking dish. Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle furikake generously over the rice to add flavor.
2. Prepare the Tuna Mixture:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the drained hot & spicy tuna, 2 tablespoons of sriracha, 4 tablespoons of Kewpie mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
   • Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more sriracha for extra spice or mayonnaise for creaminess.
3. Assemble the Sushi Bake:
   • Spread the tuna mixture evenly over the prepared rice in the baking dish.
   • Top the tuna layer with chunks or grated quick-melt cheese, covering the entire surface.
4. Bake the Sushi:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Bake the sushi for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
5. Serve:
   • Once baked, remove the sushi bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
   • Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added flavor and texture.
   • Serve the cheesy spicy tuna sushi bake with seaweed sheets on the side. To eat, scoop some of the sushi bake onto a seaweed sheet and enjoy it as a wrap.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with additional sriracha or soy sauce on the side for dipping.
• Pair with a simple cucumber salad or miso soup for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips:

• For a milder version, use regular canned tuna instead of hot & spicy, and reduce the amount of sriracha.
• To make the rice more flavorful, you can mix it with a bit of rice vinegar and sugar before layering it in the baking dish.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Tuna: A great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Japanese Rice: Provides energy and is an excellent source of carbohydrates.
• Kewpie Mayonnaise: Adds a rich, umami flavor that complements the spicy tuna.

Dietary Information:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce.
• Dairy-Free Option: Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 700mg

Storage:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• This sushi bake is a fun, comforting dish that combines the flavors of sushi with the ease of a casserole.
• It’s easy to make and customize based on your spice preference.
• Perfect for sharing, this dish is great for parties or a family dinner.

Conclusion: This Cheesy Spicy Tuna Sushi Bake is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of sushi into a warm and comforting bake. With the combination of spicy tuna, creamy mayonnaise, and gooey melted cheese, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves sushi. Serve it with seaweed sheets for a fun and interactive meal that’s perfect for sharing. Enjoy!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use different types of canned tuna?
   • Yes, you can use regular canned tuna or even canned salmon if you prefer a milder flavor.
2. What can I substitute for Kewpie mayonnaise?
   • You can use regular mayonnaise, but Kewpie adds a unique flavor due to its slightly sweet and umami-rich profile.
3. Can I make this sushi bake ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the sushi bake, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
   • Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that the sriracha and mayonnaise you use are also gluten-free.
5. What other toppings can I add?
   • You can add avocado slices, cucumber, or even tobiko (fish roe) for extra texture and flavor.
6. Can I freeze the sushi bake?
   • It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it before adding the cheese. Thaw, add the cheese, and bake when ready to serve.
7. How do I make the dish spicier?
   • Increase the amount of sriracha or add a dash of hot sauce to the tuna mixture.
8. Can I use brown rice instead of Japanese rice?
   • Yes, but the texture will be different. Brown rice is a healthier option, but it’s less sticky than Japanese rice.
9. What’s the best way to serve the sushi bake?
   • Serve it with seaweed sheets and let guests scoop the sushi bake onto the sheets to make their own sushi wraps.
10. Can I omit the cheese?
    • Yes, the cheese is optional, but it adds a deliciously gooey texture to the dish. You can omit it or use a dairy-free alternative if needed.