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Crispy Rice Sushi Bites Recipe

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4 from 3 reviews

  • Author: Leila
  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

Crispy Rice Sushi Bites are a delightful fusion dish featuring crispy pan-fried or air-fried sushi rice squares topped with a spicy salmon or tuna mixture, accompanied by fresh cucumber, avocado, and flavorful garnishes. This recipe combines the satisfying crunch of fried rice with traditional sushi flavors, perfect as a savory appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

Rice and Seasoning

  • 2 cups sushi rice (or calrose rice)
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 Tablespoons superfine sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For Frying

  • 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil

Spicy Salmon Mixture

  • 8 ounces smoked salmon (thinly sliced or finely chopped) or 1/2 pound sushi grade ahi tuna (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup reduced fat mayonnaise
  • 1 1/2 Tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil

Toppings and Garnishes

  • 2-3 mini cucumbers (thinly sliced)
  • 1-2 avocados (quartered, pit removed, then thinly sliced or mashed)
  • Jalapeno or serrano pepper, sliced (optional)
  • Furikake or toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • Green onion, sliced

Instructions

  1. Make the Rice: Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a small pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil, add the salt and rinsed rice, then cover and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let it rest covered for 10 minutes.
  2. Season the Rice: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, superfine sugar, and sesame oil until the sugar dissolves. Pour this mixture over the cooked rice and gently stir to combine evenly.
  3. Chill the Rice: Line an 8x8 inch pan with plastic wrap. Spread the seasoned rice evenly into the pan to about three-quarters of an inch thickness, pressing firmly especially at the corners. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours or preferably overnight to firm up.
  4. Prepare Spicy Salmon Mixture: In a mixing cup, whisk together the reduced fat mayonnaise, Sriracha, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Set half of this spicy mayo mixture aside for drizzling later. Combine the remaining half with the chopped smoked salmon or tuna and stir gently until well incorporated.
  5. Cut Rice Squares: Once chilled and firm, remove the rice from the pan and cut it into squares or rectangles suitable for individual sushi bites.
  6. Cook the Rice Bites (Pan Fry Option): Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, carefully place the rice pieces in the pan. Fry for about 5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy, taking care as moisture from the rice may cause splattering. Work in batches and add oil as needed. Once cooked, transfer the crispy rice bites to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
  7. Cook the Rice Bites (Air Fry Option): Preheat an air fryer to 390°F (199°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange rice pieces in a single layer and air fry for 8 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy.
  8. Assemble Sushi Bites: Top each crispy rice square with slices of cucumber and avocado. Spoon or place the spicy salmon or tuna mixture on top. Drizzle with the reserved spicy mayo. Garnish with sliced jalapenos or serrano peppers, a sprinkle of furikake or toasted sesame seeds, and sliced green onion.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while the rice bites are still crispy, and enjoy these flavorful, textural sushi-inspired appetizers.

Notes

  • For best texture, prepare the rice the night before to allow it to chill and set properly.
  • Swap smoked salmon for sushi-grade ahi tuna for a fresh twist.
  • If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Sriracha in the spicy mayo.
  • The crispy rice can be cooked either by pan-frying or air-frying depending on your equipment and preference.
  • Use plastic wrap when pressing rice to prevent sticking and to shape the rice evenly.
  • Be cautious when pan-frying as water in the rice may cause oil splatters; use a splatter screen if necessary.
  • This dish is best enjoyed immediately to maintain the crispiness of the rice base.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes plus 1-2 hours chilling time (or overnight preferred)
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Pan Frying
  • Cuisine: Japanese Fusion

Find it online: https://recipesbyleila.com/crispy-rice-sushi-bites-recipe/