Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

These crispy bang bang salmon bites are a weeknight favorite in my house whenever we want something fast but extra flavorful. Each bite is juicy inside and shatteringly crisp outside with a creamy tangy chili sauce that keeps you reaching for more. Whether you bake or fry them they make a satisfying party snack or a quick dinner main dish.

The first time I made these salmon bites my kids devoured an entire tray before I even sat down My friends always request the recipe when I bring these to barbecues

Ingredients

• Salmon fillet: fresh and firm quality makes a difference as it stays moist in the oven or fryer
• Panko breadcrumbs: these create a super light crunchy coating choose Japanese style if possible
• Cornstarch: locks moisture into the salmon and adds crispiness to the coating
• Eggs: beaten thoroughly as the glue that binds the crumbs to each piece
• Mayonnaise: smooth and creamy base for the bang bang sauce use real mayo for best taste
• Sweet chili sauce: brings sweetness and gentle heat pick a good brand without artificial flavors
• Sriracha: adds a bold spicy kick adjust the amount to control the heat
• Honey: helps round out the sauce with a touch of natural sweetness
• Salt and pepper: basic seasoning to highlight the salmon flavor

To choose quality salmon

Look for vibrant orange or pink flesh with little odor and avoid any opaque or brownish patches

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven or Oil:

Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or set up a deep frying pan with about an inch of vegetable oil over medium high heat until a breadcrumb sizzles when dropped in

Season and Cut the Salmon:

Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels and cut into even bite sized cubes about one inch. Toss them gently with salt and pepper for even coverage

Dredge for Crunch:

Place cornstarch in one shallow bowl beaten eggs in another and panko in a third. Working in batches coat salmon cubes in cornstarch tap off excess dip in egg then press into panko until totally covered. Lay each piece on a plate or tray as you go

Cook to Crisp Perfection:

Arrange panko coated cubes in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet with a bit of space between them. Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes until golden brown and crunchy turning once halfway through. If frying add batches of salmon to the hot oil for two to three minutes per side until crisp and drain on a rack or paper towels

Mix Up the Bang Bang Sauce:

In a small bowl stir mayonnaise sweet chili sauce sriracha and honey until fully combined and smooth. Taste and adjust spiciness if desired

Toss and Serve:

When the salmon bites are crispy let them cool one minute then gently toss in the bang bang sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping

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Panko really makes a difference in the crispiness of this dish I once tried with regular breadcrumbs but it just was not the same The honey in the sauce reminds me of the time my youngest helped pour it in and we ended up with a sweeter than usual batch that everyone loved

Storage Tips

Store leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Reheat in a four hundred degree oven for five to seven minutes to restore crispiness Avoid microwaving as it will make the coating soggy The sauce should be kept in a separate jar in the fridge and stirred before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find panko regular breadcrumbs can work in a pinch but the texture will be less airy For less heat use a mild chili sauce or skip sriracha altogether If you do not eat eggs try using plain yogurt or buttermilk for dipping The recipe adapts well to other firm fish like cod or even tofu cubes

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Serving Suggestions

Serve the salmon bites over a bowl of sticky rice sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallion for a weeknight meal For game day or gatherings set them out with extra bang bang sauce and toothpicks on a tray I also love them in lettuce wraps with a side of steamed broccoli

Cultural Note

Bang bang sauce is inspired by popular Asian American fusion flavors blending creamy spicy and tangy notes found in both Southern US and Thai cuisines These bites are a playful modern twist on classic sweet chili glazed seafood that pop up in both restaurant menus and home kitchens

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of salmon works best for this dish?

Fresh, skinless salmon fillets are ideal, cut into even bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.

→ Can I make these salmon bites ahead of time?

For best texture, prepare and coat salmon bites ahead, but bake or fry and toss in sauce just before serving.

→ Is it possible to adjust the spiciness?

Absolutely! Simply use more or less sriracha in the bang bang sauce to suit your preferred level of heat.

→ Can these be air fried instead of baked or fried?

Yes, air frying works well. Cook the coated salmon in a preheated air fryer until golden and crispy.

→ What are good serving suggestions?

Serve the crispy salmon bites solo as appetizers, with steamed vegetables, or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

→ How can I keep the coating crunchy?

Arrange the coated salmon on a wire rack while baking, or ensure oil is hot enough when frying to maintain crispiness.