Combine first 9 ingredients, and, if desired, sesame oil in a medium bowl until well blended.
Combine rice cereal squares and next 4 ingredients in a large bowl. Slowly stir in butter mixture, tossing to coat. Spread mixture in an even layer in 2 (15- x 10-inch) jelly-roll pans.
Bake at 250° for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Cool in pans 10 minutes; spread mixture on paper towels to cool completely.
Note: For testing purposes only, we used Rice Chex and Wheat Chex Cereals. Wasabi peas can be found in the ethnic foods aisle of large supermarkets.
