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
Scale
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.
