If you’re a fan of crispy, flavorful bites that pack a punch of sweet and spicy goodness, you’re in for a treat! Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a delightful twist on the popular bang bang chicken, featuring tender, flaky salmon encased in a golden, crunchy coating and drizzled with a zesty bang bang sauce.
Perfect as an appetizer, a snack, or even a light meal, these salmon bites are as versatile as they are delicious. They’re easy to make and guaranteed to impress at your next gathering or weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet (skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
- Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the coating adhere better.
- Season the salmon with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station
- Place the flour in a shallow dish.
- Beat the eggs in a second shallow dish.
- In a third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Salmon
- Dredge each salmon piece in the flour, shaking off the excess.
- Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Press it into the panko mixture, turning to coat all sides evenly.
Step 4: Fry the Salmon Bites
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. The oil is ready when it reaches 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy).
- Fry the salmon bites in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth. Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more sriracha.
Step 6: Serve
- Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the crispy salmon bites or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Tips
- Choosing Salmon: Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature between 350°F-375°F for perfectly crispy bites without absorbing too much oil.
- Bake Instead of Fry: For a lighter option, bake the salmon bites at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
- Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked, breaded salmon bites on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for extra heat.
- Lemon Herb: Incorporate lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill into the panko mixture for a bright, herby flavor.
- Asian-Inspired: Add sesame oil and soy sauce to the sauce for a hint of umami.
Nutrition Details
Per Serving (Approximate, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 22g
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cutting into cubes.
Is there a healthier way to make this recipe?
Absolutely! Baking or air frying the salmon bites significantly reduces the oil content while still delivering crisp results.
Can I prepare the salmon bites in advance?
You can bread the salmon bites ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before frying. This makes it easy to fry them fresh when needed.
What pairs well with bang bang salmon bites?
Serve them with a crisp salad, rice, or steamed veggies for a complete meal. They also work beautifully as an appetizer alongside other finger foods.
