Cheesy Spicy Tuna Sushi Bake is an innovative and delicious dish that combines the flavors of traditional sushi with the ease and comfort of a baked casserole. This unique fusion dish is perfect for gatherings, offering a delightful and flavorful experience that’s sure to impress your guests.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of hot & spicy tuna
- 2 cups of 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
Procedure:
Cook the Rice:
- Prepare the Japanese rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, set aside and keep warm.
Prepare the Tuna Mixture:
- Drain the excess liquid from the canned tuna and transfer it to a skillet. Cook over medium-high heat.
- Add sriracha and Kewpie mayonnaise to the tuna. Adjust the amount of mayo to make it creamier if desired.
- Mix in Kikoman soy sauce and chili powder if you want it extra spicy. Drizzle with a bit of sesame oil and stir until well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble the Sushi Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a square baking dish, spread a layer of cooked rice to form the base.
- Evenly spread half of the tuna mixture over the rice.
- Add chunks or a layer of grated quick-melt cheese over the tuna.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of furikake over the cheese.
- Repeat the layers: add another layer of rice, the remaining tuna mixture, more cheese, and another sprinkle of furikake.
- Drizzle the top with more Japanese mayonnaise and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.
Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the top is slightly golden.
Serve:
- Serve the sushi bake hot, scooping servings onto seaweed sheets for guests to wrap and eat.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with seaweed sheets for wrapping.
- Pair with a side of pickled ginger and wasabi for a traditional sushi touch.
- Add a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.
- Offer extra Kewpie mayonnaise and sriracha on the side for added customization.
Cooking Tips:
- For a less spicy version, reduce the amount of sriracha and omit the chili powder.
- Customize with additional toppings like diced avocados, cucumber, or tobiko for extra texture and flavor.
- Ensure the sushi bake is served immediately to enjoy the cheesy goodness and crispy top layer.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Tuna: Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health and muscle repair.
- Japanese Rice: Provides energy and is a good source of carbohydrates.
- Furikake: Adds vitamins and minerals from seaweed and sesame seeds.
Dietary Information:
- High-Protein: This dish is high in protein from the tuna.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces and seasonings are gluten-free for a suitable meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Innovative: Combines the flavors of traditional sushi with the ease of a casserole.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to your spice preference and available toppings.
- Convenient: Perfect for gatherings, offering a unique and flavorful experience.
Conclusion
Enjoy the Cheesy Spicy Tuna Sushi Bake, an innovative dish that combines the comfort of a casserole with the flavors of sushi. Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress with its unique blend of textures and tastes. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful fusion of cheesy goodness and spicy tuna!