Description
Sushi Bake with canned tuna is a delightful layered casserole featuring flavorful sushi rice, creamy tuna mixture, and a crispy baked top, served with fresh avocado and nori sheets for a unique twist on traditional sushi. This easy-to-make dish captures the essence of sushi in a comforting baked format, perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Rice Mixture
- 1 cup uncooked short grain rice
- ¼ cup rice vinegar (or substitute with shop-bought sushi seasoning)
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ – ⅓ cup Furikake seasoning
- Sesame oil (for drizzling and optional coating of pan)
Tuna Mixture
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese
- 2 cans tuna (drained)
Garnishes
- 1 avocado, sliced and chilled
- 1 sprig green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (white, black, or mixed, lightly toasted)
- Nori sheets (roasted, cut into palm-sized rectangles; or substitute with Korean gim seaweed)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Optionally, coat a thin baking pan with some sesame oil to create a crispy rice bottom once baked.
- Cook the rice: Prepare short grain rice as usual, optionally adding a piece of dried kelp to infuse more flavor while cooking.
- Make the sushi seasoning: Microwave the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar has dissolved completely, or alternatively, use ready-made sushi seasoning.
- Prepare the tuna mixture: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and drained tuna until evenly combined and creamy.
- Season the rice: Transfer the cooked rice into a large bowl and gently fold in the sushi seasoning by cutting and folding using a flat rice scoop or spatula—avoid stirring vigorously to prevent mushy rice. Add a drizzle of sesame oil if a more savory flavor is desired.
- Assemble the bake: Spread the seasoned rice evenly onto the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the furikake seasoning over the rice. Layer the tuna mixture evenly on top, then sprinkle the remaining furikake. Optionally add chili flakes for added heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 425°F (218.3°C) and bake the assembled dish for 12-15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Prepare garnishes: While the sushi bake is baking, slice the avocado and prepare green onions and sesame seeds for topping.
- Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, garnish with sliced avocado, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds. Serve with roasted nori sheets, sliced cucumber, and pickled ginger on the side for an authentic sushi experience.
Notes
- For added flavor, adding a piece of dried kelp while cooking rice enhances umami.
- If you prefer a spicier sushi bake, sprinkle chili flakes between layers or on top before baking.
- Ensure not to stir the rice after adding seasoning to keep the rice texture intact.
- You can substitute nori sheets with Korean gim seaweed if preferred or more readily available.
- Toast sesame seeds lightly before using to bring out their nutty flavor.
