Description
Spicy bang bang salmon bites deliver a flavor explosion that dances across taste buds with zesty Asian-inspired panache. Crispy, golden-edged salmon morsels create an irresistible appetizer perfect for gatherings where you’ll wow guests with minimal kitchen effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 lb (454 grams) salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
Breading and Seasoning:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Ingredient:
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
Instructions
- Craft the zesty Bang Bang sauce by whisking mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a mixing bowl until the mixture becomes silky and uniform. Reserve the sauce to the side for later use.
- Select fresh salmon and meticulously pat the cubes completely dry using clean paper towels. Enhance the fish’s flavor profile by generously seasoning with garlic powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Construct a three-stage breading sequence using shallow dishes: first station filled with flour, second with lightly beaten eggs, and third containing crisp panko breadcrumbs. Carefully coat each salmon morsel by first dredging in flour, then submerging in egg wash, and finally rolling thoroughly in panko, ensuring a delicate yet complete coverage.
- Warm vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet, maintaining a medium heat until the oil shimmers. Strategically fry salmon bites in small batches, allowing each piece to transform into a golden-brown exterior while maintaining a tender interior, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer freshly fried salmon pieces onto a paper towel-lined plate to eliminate excess oil, allowing them to drain and maintain optimal crispness. Gently tumble the bites in prepared Bang Bang sauce or elegantly drizzle sauce across the top for maximum flavor distribution.
- Present the salmon bites immediately while piping hot, accompanied by additional sauce for adventurous dipping. Elevate the visual appeal and add a subtle complexity by garnishing with finely chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a light dusting of red pepper flakes.
Notes
- Choose high-quality, fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture, ensuring the fish is firm and has a clean, ocean-like smell.
- Pat salmon cubes completely dry before breading to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture.
- Control oil temperature around 350°F to prevent burning and ensure even cooking, using a digital thermometer for precision.
- Experiment with alternative coatings like almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for those with dietary restrictions, maintaining the same crispy texture.
- Reduce sriracha in the sauce for a milder version or add extra for heat lovers, customizing the spice level to personal preference.
- Make ahead and reheat salmon bites in an air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness and prevent sogginess.
- Swap salmon with tofu or chicken for vegetarian or alternative protein options, keeping the same delicious Bang Bang sauce technique.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg