Looking for a flavorful and irresistible seafood dish? Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the answer! These bite-sized pieces of salmon are perfectly coated in a crispy, golden crust and paired with a creamy, spicy sauce that’ll have you coming back for more. Whether you’re making these for a party appetizer or as a main dish, they are sure to impress everyone with their bold flavors and satisfying texture.
This recipe combines the richness of fresh salmon with a crispy coating that locks in moisture and flavor. The signature Bang Bang Sauce, a blend of creamy mayo, sweet chili sauce, and a hint of sriracha, adds a spicy kick that balances out the richness of the salmon. The result is a dish that’s crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor.
These salmon bites are incredibly easy to prepare and cook quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute gathering. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious dish that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant. Let’s dive into how to make these crispy, mouthwatering Bang Bang Salmon Bites!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
There are countless reasons why Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect dish for any occasion:
- Crispy Perfection: The salmon bites have a perfectly crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender, flaky interior. The crispy texture is achieved without deep-frying, keeping them light yet satisfying.
- Spicy and Creamy Flavor: The tangy and spicy Bang Bang Sauce is the star of the show, bringing together sweet chili, sriracha, and mayo. This combination adds the perfect amount of heat and creaminess to the dish.
- Quick and Easy: These salmon bites are incredibly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish without any hassle.
- Versatile Dish: Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these salmon bites work perfectly for any occasion. Pair them with a side of rice, veggies, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Healthy Option: Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making this dish a healthier alternative to other fried appetizers or snacks.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the heat level of the Bang Bang Sauce by adding more or less sriracha, depending on your preference. You can also use the same recipe with other types of fish if desired.
Once you try these crispy salmon bites, they’ll become a go-to recipe for gatherings, special occasions, or just a tasty treat to enjoy any day of the week.
Ingredients
For the Crispy Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional)
Equipment Used
- Cutting Board and Knife: For cutting the salmon fillets into bite-sized pieces. A sharp knife ensures even cuts for consistent cooking.
- Three Shallow Bowls: For dredging the salmon bites in the flour mixture, egg wash, and breadcrumbs. This setup helps keep the coating process neat and organized.
- Frying Pan or Skillet: A non-stick or heavy-bottomed pan is ideal for frying the salmon bites. It ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon: To carefully flip the salmon bites while frying and to remove them from the hot oil without losing any coating.
- Paper Towels: For draining excess oil from the fried salmon bites, keeping them crisp without being greasy.
- Small Mixing Bowl: For preparing the Bang Bang Sauce. A small bowl allows you to easily mix the sauce ingredients together.
- Measuring Spoons: To measure the ingredients for the sauce accurately, especially the sriracha and sweet chili sauce.
- Serving Plate or Dish: To serve your crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites, a nice plate or shallow dish will make them look appealing.
Directions & Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Cut the fresh salmon fillets into bite-sized pieces, making sure they are even in size for uniform cooking.
- Coat the Salmon: In one shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge the Salmon: Dip each piece of salmon into the flour mixture, then the beaten egg, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum crispiness.
- Cook the Salmon: Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a bit of oil for frying. Once the oil is hot, cook the salmon bites in batches, frying them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: While the salmon bites are cooking, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. Adjust the amount of sriracha for your desired spice level.
- Toss and Serve: Once all the salmon bites are cooked, toss them in the Bang Bang Sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
These crispy salmon bites are packed with protein from the salmon, and while they’re crispy, they’re not overly greasy. The creamy Bang Bang Sauce adds a bit of richness, but it’s still a balanced dish that’s perfect for those watching their calorie intake while craving flavor.
Variations
- Different Fish: While salmon is ideal for this recipe, you can easily substitute it with other types of fish such as cod, tilapia, or even shrimp for a different twist.
- Air Fryer Version: If you prefer a lighter version of these salmon bites, try cooking them in an air fryer. Coat the pieces as instructed, but place them in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes for a healthier crispy texture.
- More Heat: Add extra sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for those who enjoy an even spicier kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the Bang Bang Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the Bang Bang Sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld together for an even more flavorful sauce.
2. Can I bake the salmon bites instead of frying?
Absolutely! For a healthier version, you can bake the coated salmon bites at 400°F for 12-15 minutes or until golden and crispy. Lightly spray the bites with cooking oil before baking for the best results.
3. How do I prevent the salmon from getting dry?
To prevent the salmon from drying out, avoid overcooking. Fry the salmon bites until they’re golden brown on the outside, but still tender on the inside. Keep a close eye on them while cooking.
Pro Tips By Emma
- Coating tip: For extra crispiness, use a combination of panko breadcrumbs and regular breadcrumbs. The panko provides extra crunch while the regular breadcrumbs help with a uniform texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pan: When frying the salmon, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can cause them to steam instead of crisping up.
- Garnishing: For a fresh touch, garnish your crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites with finely chopped green onions, cilantro, or sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions
These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are perfect on their own as an appetizer, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve them with a crisp cucumber salad, coleslaw, or steamed rice for a more substantial meal. You can also enjoy them with a side of dipping sauce, like extra sweet chili sauce or soy sauce, for added flavor.
For a fun twist, try serving them as sliders on mini buns with a drizzle of Bang Bang Sauce, or atop a bed of greens for a light and fresh salad option.
Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites : A Flavorful, Crispy Delight
Equipment
- Cutting Board and Knife: For cutting the salmon fillets into bite-sized pieces. A sharp knife ensures even cuts for consistent cooking.
- Three Shallow Bowls: For dredging the salmon bites in the flour mixture, egg wash, and breadcrumbs. This setup helps keep the coating process neat and organized.
- Frying Pan or Skillet: A non-stick or heavy-bottomed pan is ideal for frying the salmon bites. It ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon: To carefully flip the salmon bites while frying and to remove them from the hot oil without losing any coating.
- Paper Towels: For draining excess oil from the fried salmon bites, keeping them crisp without being greasy.
- Small Mixing Bowl: For preparing the Bang Bang Sauce. A small bowl allows you to easily mix the sauce ingredients together.
- Measuring Spoons: To measure the ingredients for the sauce accurately, especially the sriracha and sweet chili sauce.
- Serving Plate or Dish: To serve your crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites, a nice plate or shallow dish will make them look appealing.
Ingredients
For the Crispy Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillets cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Cut the fresh salmon fillets into bite-sized pieces, making sure they are even in size for uniform cooking.
- Coat the Salmon: In one shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge the Salmon: Dip each piece of salmon into the flour mixture, then the beaten egg, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum crispiness.
- Cook the Salmon: Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a bit of oil for frying. Once the oil is hot, cook the salmon bites in batches, frying them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: While the salmon bites are cooking, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. Adjust the amount of sriracha for your desired spice level.
- Toss and Serve: Once all the salmon bites are cooked, toss them in the Bang Bang Sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Use fresh lime juice to squeeze over the salmon bites before serving for a zesty, refreshing contrast to the richness of the sauce.
Double coat the salmon by dipping it in the flour mixture, egg, and breadcrumbs twice to make the bites extra crispy.
Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions to add color and freshness to the dish.
Serve with a dipping sauce on the side, like extra Bang Bang sauce or a sweet chili dip, for added depth of flavor.