If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with bold flavors and irresistible crunch, the Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe is exactly what you need. These bite-sized pieces of tender salmon are perfectly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer for guests or treating yourself to a flavorful indulgence, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly spectacular and memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays its own unique role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. The freshness of the salmon, the light tang of the buttermilk, and the vibrant kick from the bang bang sauce all combine to create a dish that’s as exciting as it is approachable.
- Fresh boneless skinless salmon fillets: The star of the dish, providing delicate flavor and healthy omega-3s.
- Buttermilk: Tenderizes the salmon and adds a slight tang, which helps the coating stick better.
- Cornstarch: Gives an ultra-crispy texture that makes every bite satisfyingly crunchy.
- All-purpose flour: Acts as a base for the seasoned coating, adding structure to the crust.
- Garlic powder: Brings depth and a little hint of savory warmth.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky complexity and vibrant color, making the bites visually inviting.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every other flavor.
- Egg: Binds the coating layers for a strong, crispy crust.
- Panko breadcrumbs: For that extra crunch and lightness, elevating the texture.
- Oil for frying: Choose one with a high smoke point like vegetable or avocado oil to get a golden, crisp fry.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the bang bang sauce.
- Sriracha: Provides a bold, spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds.
- Honey: Balances the heat with a touch of natural sweetness.
- Lime juice: Adds acidity and freshness to brighten the whole dish.
- Chopped herbs: Perfect for garnishing and adding a fresh herbal note at the end.
- Crumbled bacon (optional): For those who love a crispy, salty topping to add extra indulgence.
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Salmon
Start by cutting your fresh salmon into bite-sized cubes, ready for that perfect crisp. Place them in a bowl and coat generously with buttermilk to help tenderize and add moisture. Give the salmon a light pinch of salt and pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step is key because it locks in juiciness while prepping the fish to hold onto the crunchy coating like a pro.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
To get that signature crunch, you’ll want to prep three bowls. In the first, mix together cornstarch, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. The seasoning blend is what gives a subtle kick and color, transforming every bite. The second bowl holds a beaten egg, which helps the coating stick snugly to each salmon piece. In the third bowl, prepare your panko breadcrumbs—they’re the secret to that irresistible, extra-crispy texture.
Step 3: Coat the Salmon Bites
Now that your salmon has marinated, lift each cube out of the buttermilk and let any excess drip back into the bowl. Dredge each piece first in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg wash, and finally press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs. This triple layer is what delivers the satisfying crunch that makes this Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe so special.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden Perfection
Heat about half an inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated salmon bites in small batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Remove each batch with a slotted spoon and set the bites on paper towels to soak up any excess oil—crispy, not greasy, is the goal here!
Step 5: Whip Up the Bang Bang Sauce
While your salmon bites cool slightly, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. This sauce is the magic that ties the whole dish together—the creamy base balances the heat from the sriracha while the honey and lime bring a fresh, tangy twist.
Step 6: Plate and Garnish
Arrange the salmon bites on a serving platter and either drizzle or dollop your homemade bang bang sauce over them. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle with chopped herbs and if you’re feeling indulgent, add some crumbled bacon on top. The combination of textures and flavors at this stage is pure happiness on a plate.
How to Serve Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped herbs like cilantro, parsley, or green onions add vibrant color and fresh flavor that brightens the dish. For a salty crunch, crumbled crispy bacon adds an indulgent finish that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
These salmon bites are fabulous alongside a simple green salad or crunchy coleslaw to provide balance and a hit of freshness. For heartier options, steamed jasmine rice or garlic butter noodles complement the bold flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salmon bites on a wooden board for a rustic vibe or arrange them on skewers with alternating pieces of lime wedges and herbs for a fun finger-food option. You can even turn this Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe into mini tacos by placing them inside corn tortillas with slaw and avocado slices.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the bang bang sauce separate to maintain its creamy texture and freshness.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal for the crispiest texture. If you do freeze, flash freeze the coated salmon bites on a tray before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back as much crunch as possible, reheat leftover salmon bites in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which tends to make the crispy coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
While fresh salmon is best for texture and flavor, you can use frozen salmon if it’s properly thawed and drained. Pat it dry to reduce moisture before marinating and coating.
Is it possible to bake the salmon bites instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Arrange the coated salmon bites on a greased baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.
How spicy is the bang bang sauce?
The sauce has a nice balance of heat from the sriracha and sweetness from honey. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha to suit your taste.
Can I make the bang bang sauce vegan?
Definitely! Use vegan mayonnaise and substitute honey with maple syrup for a plant-based version that still tastes amazing.
Are these suitable for kids?
They can be, especially if you reduce or omit the sriracha in the sauce for a milder flavor. The crispy salmon bites themselves are usually a hit with kids thanks to their tender texture.
Final Thoughts
The Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy salmon beyond just a main dish. With its crispy coating and spicy, creamy sauce, it feels like a special treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Next time you want to impress friends or just indulge yourself, give this recipe a try—you’re going to fall in love with every bite!
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Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a flavorful and crunchy snack made from fresh salmon, coated in a seasoned breading, fried to golden perfection, and served with a spicy, tangy bang bang sauce. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional snacks, combining the richness of salmon with a zesty homemade sauce for an irresistible appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Salmon Bites
- 1 lb Fresh boneless skinless salmon fillets
- 1 cup Buttermilk (or milk mixed with vinegar)
- 1/2 cup Cornstarch (or rice flour)
- 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 large Egg (or egg replacer for vegan)
- 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- Oil for Frying (High smoke-point oils like vegetable or avocado oil)
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Sriracha (to taste)
- 1 tbsp Honey
- 1 tbsp Lime Juice
- Chopped Herbs (for garnish)
- Crumbled Bacon (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate Salmon: Cut the fresh salmon fillets into bite-sized cubes. Place them in a bowl and pour enough buttermilk over the salmon to coat it generously. Lightly season with a pinch of salt, then cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and to tenderize the salmon.
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up three separate bowls. In the first bowl, mix together cornstarch, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. In the second bowl, beat one large egg until frothy. Fill the third bowl with panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat Salmon Bites: Take the marinated salmon cubes out of the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece first in the flour mixture, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, pour enough high smoke-point oil to cover about half an inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C), optimal for frying.
- Fry Salmon Bites: Carefully place the coated salmon bites into the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Make Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and well combined. Adjust sriracha quantity to taste for desired spice level.
- Serve: Arrange the crispy salmon bites on a serving platter. Drizzle or dollop with the bang bang sauce, and garnish with chopped herbs and optional crumbled bacon for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect crunch.
Notes
- Buttermilk tenderizes the salmon while adding a subtle tang, but can be substituted with milk mixed with vinegar for a similar effect.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch; regular breadcrumbs will work but will be less crispy.
- Maintain oil temperature around 350°F to ensure the bites fry quickly and absorb less oil.
- Adjust sriracha amount in the sauce according to your spice preference.
- Crumbled bacon adds a smoky, savory note but can be omitted for a pescatarian option.
- Serve immediately after frying for the best texture and flavor.
