Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe)

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to satisfy your sushi cravings, look no further! These Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe) are not only super simple to make but also incredibly enjoyable for the whole family. I love how they combine the flavors of classic sushi in a cute, bite-sized format. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a friendly gathering, these little cups are sure to impress!

What makes this recipe even more special is how customizable it is. You can whip them up as an appetizer for guests or serve them as a main dish. Plus, they’re baked, so you get that delightful crispy texture without the fuss of frying. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cups come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these bite-sized treats, and you can even let them help with assembly!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time, so you can pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tender salmon, creamy Kewpie mayo, and a hint of spice from sriracha is simply irresistible.
• Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer or main course—either way, they’ll be a hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that these are simple and wholesome items that deliver amazing flavor. Here’s what you need for your Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe):

For the Salmon Filling

• 1 lb salmon, cubed
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Kewpie Mayo
• 1 tbsp Sriracha
• 1 tsp sesame oil

For the Sushi Rice

• 1 ½ cup uncooked sushi rice
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tsp white sugar

For Assembly

• 3 large nori sheets
• furikake, for garnish
• 1 green onion, for garnish
• cooking spray

Variations

One of the best things about these sushi cups is their flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your mood or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use cooked shrimp or tofu instead of salmon for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some finely chopped cucumbers or avocado for extra freshness and crunch.
• Change the spice level: Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your heat preference—go milder or turn up the heat!
• Experiment with sauces: Try using spicy mayo or teriyaki sauce for drizzling on top—yum!

How to Make Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe)

Step 1: Cook the Sushi Rice

Start by cooking your sushi rice according to package instructions. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked rice provides the right texture and flavor base for your cups.

Step 2: Prepare the Vinegar Mixture

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine rice vinegar and sugar. Microwave it for about 30 seconds until the sugar dissolves. Pour this mixture over your cooked rice and mix well. This little trick adds a delightful tanginess that balances beautifully with the salmon.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

While you’re mixing things up, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400℉. A hot oven ensures that everything bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden color.

Step 4: Mix the Salmon Filling

In another bowl, combine your diced salmon with soy sauce, Kewpie mayo, sriracha, and sesame oil. Mixing these ingredients together creates a rich filling full of flavor that complements our sushi cups perfectly.

Step 5: Prepare Nori Sheets

Cut your nori sheets into squares large enough to fit into muffin tins. This step helps create individual cups that hold all those yummy fillings together.

Step 6: Assemble Your Sushi Cups

Lightly grease each muffin tin with cooking spray. Place a spoonful of sushi rice onto each nori square and press it down gently into each muffin tin insert. Follow this by adding a layer of your salmon mixture on top—this layering gives each cup its signature taste.

Step 7: Bake Them Up!

Pop your assembled cups into the oven at 400℉ for about 15 minutes. This baking time allows everything to meld together while giving you that perfect crispy texture on top.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, let them cool slightly before drizzling some extra sriracha or spicy mayo on top. Finish with furikake and chopped green onions for an added flair. Serve immediately and enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe)

Creating these delicious sushi cups is a breeze, and a few handy tips can elevate your culinary experience even further!

• Use fresh salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon will enhance the flavor and texture of your sushi cups. Look for bright, shiny fillets with a firm texture.
• Let the rice cool: Allowing the sushi rice to cool before assembling helps it hold its shape better in the nori. Warm rice might become too sticky and difficult to work with.
• Customize toppings: Don’t be shy about mixing up the toppings! Adding sliced avocado or cucumber can give an extra layer of freshness and flavor.
• Check doneness: Keep an eye on the salmon while baking. Oven temperatures can vary, so check for doneness around the 12-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
• Experiment with sauces: While sriracha and Kewpie mayo are fantastic, feel free to try other sauces like teriyaki or spicy aioli for a unique twist!

How to Serve Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe)

These easy baked salmon sushi cups not only look appealing but also make for a fun and interactive dining experience. Present them on a beautiful platter, allowing everyone to dive in and enjoy!

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor to your sushi cups.
• Pickled ginger: This classic sushi accompaniment cleanses the palate and adds a zesty touch.
• Microgreens: For an elegant finishing touch, top each cup with fresh microgreens or sprouts for added color and nutrition.

Side Dishes

• Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is a nutritious snack that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of salmon sushi cups.
• Seaweed salad: Refreshing and tangy seaweed salad offers a delightful contrast in textures while complementing Japanese flavors.
• Cucumber salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar makes for a crisp side that balances the richness of the sushi cups.
• Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comforting warmth and umami that enhances your overall meal experience.

Enjoy crafting these delightful Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups, perfect for any gathering or as a tasty weeknight dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance, store them, and enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week. Follow these simple guidelines to keep your sushi cups fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover sushi cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• To maintain optimal taste, cover the tops with plastic wrap before sealing the container.

Freezing

• While these sushi cups are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if needed.
• Place the cooled cups in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They should last for about a month.

Reheating

• To reheat, place the sushi cups on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350℉ for about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 30-60 seconds but be cautious not to overheat as it may dry out the salmon.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups:

Can I use other types of fish for the Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe)?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute salmon with other fish like tuna or even cooked shrimp. Just ensure they are fresh and of good quality for the best flavor.

How do I make these Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe) gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of light soy sauce. This will give you all the umami flavor without the gluten!

Can I prepare the sushi rice ahead of time?

Yes! Sushi rice can be prepared in advance. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

What toppings can I add to my Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe)?

You can customize your sushi cups with various toppings such as avocado slices, pickled ginger, or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing these Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups! They’re not just a fun twist on traditional sushi but also incredibly satisfying for those sushi cravings. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or prepping for meals during a busy week, these cups have got you covered. Happy cooking and enjoy every delightful bite!