When the craving for sushi strikes but you’re not in the mood for traditional rolls, I’ve found the perfect solution: Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups. Imagine the delightful fusion of tender salmon, warm sushi rice, and a crispy nori shell, all baked to perfection in a muffin tin—easy to make and even easier to love! These portable, deconstructed sushi treats bring a fun twist to your dinner table or any gathering. Plus, they’re ready in just 30 minutes, making them a fantastic option whether you’re hosting friends or just want a special snack after a busy day.
I stumbled upon this viral TikTok recipe and knew I had to try it. The combination of flavors and textures is absolutely irresistible, topped off with a drizzle of spicy sriracha and creamy kewpie mayo that elevates each bite. These sushi cups strike the perfect balance between casual comfort food and an impressive appetizer, satisfying both the sushi aficionado and the home cook alike. Ready to dive into this deliciously unique recipe? Let’s get started!
Why are Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups irresistible?
Unique Presentation: These sushi cups offer a fun twist on traditional rolls, transforming classic sushi into bite-sized wonders.
Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of cooking time, they fit effortlessly into your busy schedule while satisfying cravings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh salmon, creamy kewpie mayo, and spicy sriracha makes each mouthful a taste sensation!
Customizable Delight: Easily tweak ingredients to suit your taste; try other proteins or add veggies like avocado for a fresh twist.
Party Perfect: Great for gatherings or family dinners; they not only please the palate but also look stunning on any table!
Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups Ingredients
For the Salmon Mixture
• Salmon – use fresh or previously frozen salmon, cubed for the best flavor and texture.
• Light Soy Sauce – adds saltiness and depth; substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Kewpie Mayo – provides a rich, creamy texture; regular mayo mixed with rice vinegar works as a substitute.
• Sriracha – offers a spicy kick; adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or omit for milder flavor.
• Sesame Oil – adds nutty undertones; olive oil can be a substitute in a pinch.
For the Sushi Rice
• Sushi Rice – forms the essential base; avoid using regular rice for an authentic taste experience.
• Rice Vinegar – balances out the flavor perfectly; no substitute can replicate its unique profile.
• White Sugar – aids in balancing flavors in sushi rice; honey or agave syrup could work as healthier alternatives.
For Assembly
• Nori Sheets – wraps around sushi rice and fillings; ensure they’re large enough to fit in muffin tins.
• Furikake – adds a delightful crunch and flavor; no substitute can truly mimic its magical touch.
• Green Onion – brings freshness and a pop of color; chives can be a great substitute for similar flavor.
• Cooking Spray – prevents sticking in muffin tins, ensuring easy removal of your delightful sushi cups.
These Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups are a fantastic way to bring sushi to life in a simple yet delicious manner!
How to Make Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups
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Prepare Sushi Rice: Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook it according to package instructions, then combine with a mixture of rice vinegar and sugar that you’ve microwaved until dissolved. Set aside.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) so it’s hot and ready for your delicious creation!
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Make Salmon Mixture: In a bowl, combine cubed salmon, light soy sauce, kewpie mayo, sriracha, and sesame oil. Toss gently to coat everything well until the salmon is nicely seasoned.
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Prepare Nori: Cut the nori sheets into squares, large enough to line muffin tins. These will be the delightful wrappers for your sushi cups!
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Assemble Cups: Lightly grease the muffin tin with cooking spray. Place a spoonful of sushi rice in each nori square, pressing down gently. Then layer the salmon mixture over the rice for all those wonderful flavors melded together!
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Bake: Pop your sushi cups in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the tops are golden and slightly crispy.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle with spicy mayo or sriracha, then sprinkle with furikake and green onions for that final touch. Enjoy fresh for a delightful bite!
Optional: Serve with pickled ginger or soy sauce on the side for a complete sushi experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups
Fridge: Store leftover sushi cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to freeze them, wrap each cup tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To enjoy your stored Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups, reheat directly from the fridge or freezer in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
Serving Freshness: For the best taste, enjoy your sushi cups fresh from the oven, but stored versions can still deliver delightful flavors with proper heating!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sushi rice and the salmon mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the rice, mix in the rice vinegar and sugar, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the salmon mixture, combine cubed salmon with soy sauce, kewpie mayo, sriracha, and sesame oil, then store in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble. When it’s time to bake, just cut the nori sheets, layer the rice and salmon mixture in the muffin tin, and pop them in the oven. Bake until golden for delicious sushi cups that are just as fresh and flavorful as if they were made on the spot!
What to Serve with Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups?
Creating a memorable meal becomes effortless when you pair these delightful sushi cups with the perfect accompaniments.
- Pickled Ginger: Its zesty and refreshing taste cleanses the palate, enhancing every savory bite of the sushi cups.
- Soy Sauce: A classic dip that adds umami depth; perfect for drizzling or dunking.
- Cucumber Salad: Crisp and cool, a simple salad with sesame dressing harmonizes beautifully with the warm, savory flavors of the sushi.
- Edamame: Lightly salted and full of protein, these green gems bring a chewy texture that complements the sushi cups wonderfully.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and nourishing, making it a perfect side to balance the meal’s flavors.
- Sake or Light Beer: A chilled glass pairs excellently, offering a refreshing balance to the savory richness of the sushi cups.
- Chocolate Mochi: For dessert, sweet chocolate mochi provides a delightful finish, contrasting nicely with the savory elements of your meal.
- Green Tea: A warm cup refreshes between bites, enhancing the meal’s overall experience with its delicate flavor.
These pairings elevate your Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups into a full dining experience that’s both satisfying and fun!
Expert Tips for Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups
- Sticky Rice: Ensure your sushi rice is sticky enough to hold together; rinse well and avoid overcooking for the best texture.
- Cooling Time: Let the sushi cups cool for a few minutes after baking before removing from the muffin tin to help them hold their shape.
- Protein Variability: If substituting proteins like shrimp or crab, ensure they are fully cooked or require less cooking time than salmon to avoid texture issues.
- Nori Handling: Choose large nori sheets to avoid tearing; securely press them into the muffin tins for stability, ensuring they hold the filling.
- Garnish Wisely: Drizzle the spicy mayo only when ready to serve; this keeps your Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups looking fresh and appealing!
Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups Variations
Feel free to customize these delightful sushi cups to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Seafood Swap: Substitute salmon with cooked shrimp or crab for a different seafood twist. The sweetness of shrimp pairs beautifully with the sushi rice.
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Veggie Addition: Mix in diced avocado or cucumber for added freshness and a nice crunch. These veggies complement the creamy flavors perfectly.
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Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding diced jalapeños into the salmon mixture. This will take your sushi cups to a thrilling new level of spice.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a burst of flavor. Their fresh notes will elevate your sushi cups to new heights.
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Quinoa Alternative: Use cooked quinoa instead of sushi rice for a healthier grain option. This will add a nutty flavor while keeping the dish hearty.
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Gluten-Free Options: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your nori is gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats!
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Sweet Twist: Add a hint of sweetness by mixing in some diced mango or even a touch of honey in the salmon mixture. The sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.
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Grain-Free Base: Swap out the rice for cauliflower rice to make these sushi cups a grain-free delight. Just make sure to season it well for the best texture and flavor!
Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups Recipe FAQs
What type of salmon should I use for the Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, it’s ideal to use fresh or previously frozen salmon, cubed. Look for cuts that are firm with a vibrant color, avoiding any that appear dull or have dark spots all over.
How should I store leftover sushi cups?
After enjoying your delicious Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to savor them a little longer!
Can I freeze Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups?
For sure! If you want to keep these tasty treats for later, wrap each sushi cup tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
What do I do if my sushi rice isn’t sticky enough?
If your sushi rice isn’t holding together well, it might be due to insufficient rinsing or cooking. Make sure to rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, eliminating excess starch. When cooking, stick to the package instructions to achieve that perfect sticky texture needed for sushi.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re catering to specific diets, be mindful of allergies to fish or gluten. For gluten-free options, swap the light soy sauce for tamari. And if you’re concerned about pets, avoid sharing these sushi cups with them, as certain ingredients may not be suitable for their digestion.
Can I customize the fillings in these sushi cups?
Very! The beauty of Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups lies in their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different proteins like cooked shrimp or crab, or even add in veggies such as avocado or cucumber for an extra layer of taste and texture. The more, the merrier when it comes to your sushi cup creations!
Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups Recipe You’ll Love in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook it according to package instructions, then combine with rice vinegar and sugar microwaved until dissolved. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- In a bowl, combine cubed salmon, light soy sauce, kewpie mayo, sriracha, and sesame oil. Toss gently.
- Cut the nori sheets into squares large enough to line muffin tins.
- Lightly grease the muffin tin with cooking spray. Place sushi rice in each nori square, pressing down gently, then layer the salmon mixture over the rice.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and tops are golden.
- Let cool slightly, drizzle with spicy mayo or sriracha, and sprinkle with furikake and green onions.