Salmon Crispy Rice

Name: Salmon Crispy Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup sushi rice; 1 1/4 cups water; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 8 ounces smoked salmon, sliced; Spicy mayo (sriracha mixed with mayo); Green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience a delightful twist on your favorite sushi with this Salmon Crispy Rice recipe. Perfectly seasoned sushi rice is molded into crispy squares and topped with fresh, smoked salmon and a drizzle of spicy mayo for a mouthwatering appetizer or snack. This dish combines textures and flavors that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-05T09:43:55.578Z

This recipe for Salmon Crispy Rice brings a contemporary twist to traditional sushi by providing a crispy base that contrasts beautifully with the soft, smoky salmon.

The Art of Sushi Rice

Sushi rice is an essential component of any sushi dish, and mastering it can elevate your culinary skills. Properly seasoned sushi rice is sticky, yet fluffy, allowing it to hold its shape while delivering a satisfying bite. The balance of vinegar, sugar, and salt creates a subtly sweet and tangy base that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of smoked salmon. Ensuring that you rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking helps remove excess starch, resulting in the perfect texture for your crispy rice squares.

When preparing sushi rice, attention to detail is key. The traditional method involves cooking the rice in a rice cooker for the best results, ensuring even cooking and the right moisture level. After cooking, allowing the rice to cool before mixing in the seasoning prevents the grains from becoming too mushy. This technique not only preserves the integrity of the rice but also enhances the overall taste of your Salmon Crispy Rice.

Crispy Texture and Flavor Explosion

The delightful contrast of textures is what makes Salmon Crispy Rice truly stand out. The outer layer of the rice squares is golden brown and crunchy, while the inside retains a tender, chewy consistency. This combination makes each bite an exciting experience for the senses, inviting you to savor the delightful crispy crunch, followed by the tender sushi rice and the creamy layer of spicy mayo.

Moreover, the addition of fresh, smoked salmon adds a layer of complex flavor. The smoky profile pairs beautifully with the creamy, spicy mayo, and the freshness from the green onions and sesame seeds adds a touch of brightness. Together, this symphony of flavors creates a dish that is not only visually appealing but is also satisfying and indulgent.

Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients to make your Salmon Crispy Rice.

Sushi Rice

1 cup sushi rice
1 1/4 cups water
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt

Toppings

8 ounces smoked salmon, sliced
Spicy mayo (sriracha mixed with mayo)
Green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you begin.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Salmon Crispy Rice.

Prepare the Sushi Rice

Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water in a rice cooker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once cooked, let it cool slightly before mixing in rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.

Shape the Rice

Press the seasoned rice into a square or rectangular shape on a sheet of parchment paper, about 1 inch thick. Allow it to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Crisp the Rice

In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Place the rice squares in the pan and fry until golden and crispy on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Dish

Top each crispy rice square with a slice of smoked salmon, a drizzle of spicy mayo, and a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds.

Once assembled, your Salmon Crispy Rice is ready to serve!

Serving Suggestions

Salmon Crispy Rice is perfect for entertaining, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a fancy dinner party. Serve them as bite-sized appetizers during cocktail hour or as part of a sushi platter alongside other favorites like nigiri or maki rolls. The eye-catching presentation will surely be a conversation starter among your guests.

Pair your crispy rice squares with a refreshing cucumber salad or a side of edamame for a complete meal. You can also offer additional toppings like avocado slices or pickled ginger, allowing guests to customize their bites according to their preferences. This flexibility contributes to a delightful dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

While Salmon Crispy Rice is best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain some of the crispiness, consider storing the rice squares and toppings separately. The rice squares can be reheated briefly in a hot pan to regain some crunch before serving, but keep in mind that they may lose some of their texture after storage.

If you have leftover toppings, use them creatively! The smoked salmon and spicy mayo can elevate other dishes, such as salads or rice bowls. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these ingredients to avoid waste while discovering new flavor combinations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked?

Yes, but make sure to properly prepare the fresh salmon for sushi.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with pickled ginger and soy sauce.