How to Make the Viral Emily Mariko Salmon Bowls from TikTok

When Emily Mariko posted her simple Emily Mariko salmon bowls recipe on TikTok in 2021, the internet went absolutely wild. Millions of viewers watched as she flaked salmon, reheated rice with an ice cube, and topped it with a savory-sweet mix of sauces, creating what has now become one of the most famous food trends on TikTok.

It’s easy, delicious, and ready in minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or a healthy meal prep option. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or just someone who loves quick comfort food, the viral Emily Mariko Salmon Bowls are worth adding to your recipe rotation.

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Why These Salmon Bowls Went Viral

Emily’s video wasn’t just about the food — it was about the aesthetic and ease. The satisfying visuals of her flaking salmon, placing an ice cube in the rice, and mixing sauces in a minimalist kitchen had people hooked.

Here’s why it became a sensation:

• Uses leftovers — a perfect recipe for day-old salmon and rice.
• Minimal ingredients — just a few pantry staples and condiments.
• Balanced flavor — sweet, salty, spicy, and creamy in every bite.
• Highly customizable — you can swap proteins, toppings, and sauces.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This is the classic Emily Mariko version, but feel free to adapt:

• 1 cooked salmon fillet (leftover or freshly made)
• 1 cup cooked white rice (or brown rice)
• 1 ice cube (for reheating rice without drying it out)
• 1–2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Kewpie mayonnaise (Japanese mayo for creaminess)
• 1–2 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
• ½ avocado, sliced or diced
• Roasted seaweed sheets (nori)
• Optional toppings: kimchi, pickled radish, sesame seeds, cucumber slices

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Flake the Salmon

Place the cooked salmon fillet in a shallow bowl. Use a fork to flake it into bite-sized pieces, removing any skin or bones.

2. Add the Rice and Ice Cube

Spoon cooked rice over the salmon. Place an ice cube directly on top of the rice (Emily’s viral trick keeps the rice moist).

3. Cover and Reheat

Cover the bowl with parchment paper or a microwave-safe lid. Microwave for 1–2 minutes, until the rice and salmon are warm. Remove the ice cube — it won’t melt completely but will release steam.

4. Add Sauces

Drizzle soy sauce, Kewpie mayo, and sriracha over the rice and salmon. Use a fork or chopsticks to mix everything together until it’s creamy and evenly coated.

5. Add Toppings & Serve

Top with avocado slices and any extra garnishes you like. Serve with roasted seaweed sheets on the side for scooping up bites.

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Tips for Perfect Salmon Bowls

• Fresh or leftover salmon works — just avoid overcooking during reheating.
• Use short-grain rice for the best texture and stickiness.
• Kewpie mayo is key for that authentic flavor, but you can substitute with regular mayo if needed.
• Customize spice level by adjusting the sriracha amount or swapping with chili crisp.

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Why This Recipe Is a Game-Changer for Leftovers

Many people struggle to make leftovers exciting, but Emily’s salmon bowls show that with a few pantry staples, you can turn day-old rice and salmon into something that tastes fresh and gourmet. The ice cube trick alone is a hack worth keeping — it keeps reheated rice fluffy and moist.

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Variations to Try

• Teriyaki Salmon Bowl — swap soy sauce for teriyaki sauce and add pineapple.
• Spicy Tuna Bowl — use canned tuna instead of salmon for a budget-friendly twist.
• Vegan Version — replace salmon with baked tofu or tempeh, and use vegan mayo.
• Extra Veggie Boost — add steamed edamame, shredded carrots, or sautéed spinach.

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Serving Suggestions

• Lunch Meal Prep — make several bowls at once and store toppings separately until ready to eat.
• Light Dinner — pair with a simple miso soup or cucumber salad.
• Party Platter Style — lay out all ingredients and let guests build their own bowls.

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Related Reads

• If you love TikTok-inspired meals, try The Viral Emily Mariko Salmon Bowls’s flavor cousin, Cowboy Caviar another social media favorite.
• Craving more cozy rice dishes? Check out The TikTok Viral Green Goddess Salad for a refreshing veggie side.
• See Emily Mariko’s original TikTok video on her official TikTok profile for authentic presentation and inspiration.

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Final Thoughts

The Viral Emily Mariko Salmon Bowls prove that simple recipes can still be incredibly satisfying. With just a few ingredients, you get a balance of protein, carbs, healthy fats, and big flavor — all in under 10 minutes.

Whether you follow Emily’s exact method or add your own twist, this recipe is an easy, healthy way to make the most of your leftovers. The creamy mayo-sriracha sauce, warm salmon, and crisp seaweed come together to create comfort food that feels fresh and modern.

So next time you have extra salmon in the fridge, skip the boring reheat and treat yourself to this TikTok-famous bowl of goodness.