Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The salmon is incredibly tender and flaky inside, while the cornstarch and flour coating gives it a satisfyingly crispy exterior. The real magic comes from the Bang Bang sauce – creamy, spicy, and just a little bit sweet. The sauce ties everything together, adding layers of flavor that make each bite irresistible. Whether you’re a fan of salmon or just love bold, spicy dishes, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the salmon:

• 1 lb salmon fillets (cut into bite-sized cubes)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to spice level)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp rice vinegar

For garnish:

• Fresh cilantro (optional)
• Sliced green onions (optional)
• Sesame seeds (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the salmon: Cut the salmon fillets into bite-sized cubes, making sure they are all relatively the same size for even cooking.
2. Make the coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, pour the buttermilk.
3. Coat the salmon: Dip each salmon cube into the buttermilk, then dredge it in the dry coating mixture, pressing gently to ensure the pieces are fully coated. Repeat until all the salmon cubes are coated.
4. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to fry the salmon but not so hot that it smokes (around 350°F/175°C).
5. Fry the salmon: Fry the salmon cubes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is golden brown and crispy on the outside, and cooked through on the inside. Remove the salmon bites from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Make the Bang Bang sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth and well combined. Adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if you prefer it hotter.
7. Toss the salmon in the sauce: Once all the salmon bites are fried and crispy, place them in a large bowl and gently toss them with the Bang Bang sauce until they are evenly coated.
8. Garnish and serve: Transfer the coated salmon bites to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Storage/Reheating

These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are best enjoyed fresh, as they maintain their crispy texture when hot. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the bites in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to crisp them up again.

FAQs

Can I use a different fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of fish like cod, tilapia, or halibut. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish you’re using.

Can I make the sauce less spicy?

Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of sriracha sauce or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder sauce. The sweet chili sauce already adds a touch of heat, so you’ll still get a flavorful sauce.

Can I bake the salmon instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the salmon bites for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), arrange the coated salmon pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Can I prepare the salmon in advance?

You can prepare the coating and coat the salmon pieces in advance. Store the coated salmon in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before frying them. However, the crispy texture is best when the salmon is cooked right before serving.

Can I make the Bang Bang sauce in advance?

Yes, the Bang Bang sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just give it a good stir before using.

What other garnishes can I use?

In addition to cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds, you can garnish the salmon bites with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, thinly sliced red peppers, or even a drizzle of extra sauce for added flavor.

Can I use low-fat buttermilk?

Yes, you can use low-fat buttermilk in this recipe without sacrificing too much flavor or texture. Full-fat buttermilk gives the batter a richer flavor, but low-fat will still work well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your sweet chili sauce and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cutting it into cubes and preparing it for the recipe.

What should I serve with these salmon bites?

These crispy salmon bites pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. You could serve them with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, rice, or even on a bed of lettuce for a light, healthy meal.

Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect combination of crispy, tender salmon and a deliciously spicy-sweet sauce. With the crunchy exterior, juicy interior, and bold flavor, they are sure to become your go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these bites will always be a hit. Easy to make and full of flavor, they are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves seafood with a little kick!

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