Bacon and Cinnamon Crusted Sushi-Rice Casserole

What Started it all:
Bacon and cinnamon crusted sushi-rice casserole
This unique and flavorful casserole combines the savory taste of bacon with the warm spice of cinnamon, all wrapped up in a comforting sushi-rice base. Perfect for a creative dinner for four, this dish is sure to impress with its unexpected yet delicious combination of ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Combine the sushi rice and water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the cooked rice. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay the bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sushi rice, crumbled bacon, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped green onions.
- In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the rice and mix thoroughly.
- Transfer the rice mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and ground cinnamon.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb and cinnamon mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired.
This Bacon and Cinnamon Crusted Sushi-Rice Casserole is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the best of savory and sweet. It's a comforting, hearty dish that's perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy!