Name: Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Fresh salmon fillets (skinless) – 1 lb (450g); All-purpose flour – 1/2 cup (60g); Cornstarch – 2 tbsp (30g); Eggs – 2 large; Panko breadcrumbs – 1 cup (100g); Salt – 1/2 tsp (or to taste); Pepper – 1/4 tsp (or to taste); Vegetable oil (for frying) – 1/4 inch deep in the pan; Mayonnaise – 1/2 cup (120g); Sweet chili sauce – 1/4 cup (60ml); Sriracha sauce – 1-2 tbsp (adjust to heat preference); Rice vinegar or lemon juice – 1 tbsp (15ml); Honey – 1 tbsp (15g)

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Short Description

These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a mouthwatering fusion of crispy, golden-brown salmon chunks tossed in a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or a light meal, these little bites pack a big punch of flavor that will have you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

If you’re a fan of crispy fried foods with a twist, these Bang Bang Salmon Bites will quickly become your new favorite! The salmon is tender and flaky on the inside, perfectly crispy on the outside, and coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that hits all the right notes—sweet, spicy, and a little tangy. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make and are ready in no time. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to treat yourself, these crispy bites are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients you’ll need to make these crispy bites. (The full list of ingredients is below!)

Fresh salmon fillets (skinless)
All-purpose flour (for coating)
Cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
Eggs
Panko breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

Mayonnaise
Sweet chili sauce
Sriracha sauce (for a spicy kick)
Rice vinegar or lemon juice
Honey (for sweetness)

Directions

1. Prepare the Salmon

Start by cutting your fresh salmon fillets into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture—this will help the batter stick better.

2. Set Up a Dipping Station

In one bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Finally, place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish. Now you’re ready to bread the salmon.

3. Coat the Salmon

Dredge each salmon piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Then dip it into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat the salmon in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly so they stick. Repeat this process with all the salmon pieces.

4. Fry the Salmon

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, about 1/4 inch deep. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping in a small piece of breadcrumb—if it sizzles, it’s ready), carefully add the breaded salmon pieces in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if necessary. Fry the salmon for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the salmon and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the salmon is frying, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar (or lemon juice), and honey in a small bowl. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or spiciness to your liking by adding more honey or sriracha.

6. Toss the Salmon in the Sauce

Once all the salmon pieces are crispy and drained, place them in a large bowl. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the top and gently toss to coat each piece evenly. Make sure every salmon bite is fully coated in that creamy, spicy goodness!

7. Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the sauced-up crispy salmon bites to a serving platter. For an extra touch, sprinkle with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish. Serve immediately while they’re still hot and crispy!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use Fresh Salmon: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Frozen salmon can work, but fresh always gives that tender, flaky bite.
Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: The cornstarch helps create an extra-crispy coating. It’s the secret to getting that perfectly crunchy exterior.
Make it Extra Crispy: For even crispier salmon, double bread the pieces. After dipping in the egg, coat them in the panko breadcrumbs, then dip them back into the egg and coat again.
Control the Heat: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce. Alternatively, you can add a little more for a spicier kick!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Substitute the Salmon: If you’re not a fan of salmon, this recipe also works great with other fish like cod, tilapia, or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the protein you’re using.
Baked Option: For a healthier version, bake the breaded salmon bites at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden and crispy. Spray with a little cooking spray before baking for extra crispiness.
Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the mix. Simply slice them into bite-sized pieces and bread them the same way you did with the salmon for a veggie-packed version.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are perfect as an appetizer or served as a main dish alongside a simple side salad, steamed rice, or crispy fries. They also pair beautifully with a light, citrusy cocktail, like a mojito or a lemon gin fizz. For a more indulgent experience, serve with a side of extra bang bang sauce for dipping!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (although that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to help restore the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the coating. You can also store the sauce separately in the fridge for up to a week.

4 FAQs

1. Can I make these in advance?
It’s best to fry the salmon just before serving to keep the texture crispy. However, you can prepare the salmon bites ahead of time, bread them, and store them in the fridge until ready to fry. This can help save time if you’re entertaining.

2. Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be made a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a good stir before using.

3. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before breading. This will prevent the coating from becoming soggy.

4. Can I fry these without oil?
For a healthier option, you can air fry these crispy salmon bites. Simply coat them as usual and cook in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are an irresistible combination of crunchy, flavorful salmon and a sweet, spicy sauce. They’re perfect for a quick snack, an appetizer for your next gathering, or even as a main dish. With the crispy exterior and that creamy, tangy bang bang sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit wherever you serve it. Easy to make and even easier to devour—give them a try and prepare to be hooked!

Short Description

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Ingredients

Directions

1. Prepare the Salmon

2. Set Up a Dipping Station

3. Coat the Salmon

4. Fry the Salmon

5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

6. Toss the Salmon in the Sauce

7. Serve and Enjoy

Expert Tips and Tricks

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Storage and Reheating Tips

4 FAQs

Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition