Overview
These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, combining tender salmon pieces with a crunchy coating and a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce. They’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers, snacks, or a main course.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1½ pounds (680g) fresh salmon fillets, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
1. Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Place the beaten eggs in a second bowl and the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
2. Dredge the Salmon:
- Dip each salmon piece into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the salmon piece with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the coated salmon pieces on a plate or tray.
3. Fry the Salmon:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the salmon bites in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan.
- Cook each piece for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked salmon bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and well combined.
- Adjust the spiciness by adding more sriracha if desired.
5. Assemble and Serve:
- Arrange the crispy salmon bites on a serving platter.
- Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve the salmon bites with toothpicks for easy dipping at parties.
- Main Course: Pair with steamed jasmine rice and sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Tacos: Use the salmon bites as a filling for soft tortillas, topped with slaw and extra sauce.
- Salad: Add to a fresh green salad for added protein and crunch.
Tips and Variations
- Air Fryer Method: For a healthier option, cook the coated salmon bites in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Baking Method: Bake the salmon bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 15-18 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Alternative Proteins: Substitute salmon with shrimp, chicken, or tofu for different variations.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy.
Enjoy your Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites as a flavorful and versatile dish that’s sure to impress!
