Bang Bang Salmon Bites: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Bang Bang Salmon Bites: Prepare to have your taste buds explode with flavor! These aren’t your average fish appetizers; they’re a delightful combination of crispy, tender salmon and a creamy, spicy sauce that will leave you craving more. Forget boring dinners – these little bites are about to become your new weeknight obsession.

While the exact origins of “Bang Bang” sauce are debated, it’s widely believed to have originated at Bonefish Grill, quickly becoming a fan favorite. The name itself perfectly captures the explosion of flavor you experience with each bite. It’s a modern classic, borrowing inspiration from Asian flavors and adapting them for a wider audience.

What makes Bang Bang Salmon Bites so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The salmon is cooked to crispy perfection on the outside while remaining incredibly moist and flaky on the inside. Then, it’s tossed in that signature Bang Bang sauce – a creamy, slightly sweet, and undeniably spicy concoction that elevates the salmon to a whole new level. Plus, they’re incredibly quick and easy to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights or impressive appetizers for your next gathering. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll understand the hype!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• For the Salmon Bites:
• 1.5 lbs skinless salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for cooking
• For the Bang Bang Sauce:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• For Garnish (optional):
• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Lime wedges

Preparing the Salmon Bites:

1. Prepare the Salmon: First things first, make sure your salmon is skinless and cut into even, 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and look great! Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step because it helps the cornstarch adhere better and allows for a nice, crispy sear.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will create a flavorful coating for the salmon. Make sure everything is well combined so each bite is perfectly seasoned.
3. Coat the Salmon: Add the salmon cubes to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated. You want a light, even coating of the cornstarch mixture on all sides of the salmon. This coating is what will give the salmon that delightful crispy texture when cooked.

Cooking the Salmon Bites:

1. Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to sear the salmon quickly, but not so hot that it burns. A good way to test if the oil is ready is to flick a tiny bit of the cornstarch mixture into the pan. If it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go!
2. Sear the Salmon: Carefully add the salmon cubes to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature of the oil and cause the salmon to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the salmon in batches. Sear the salmon for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
3. Remove from Heat: Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This will help keep the salmon bites nice and crispy.

Making the Bang Bang Sauce:

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic powder. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your desired level of spiciness. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch of salt or a little more honey depending on your preference.
2. Whisk Until Smooth: Whisk all the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth and creamy. The sauce should have a vibrant color and a balanced flavor profile – sweet, spicy, and tangy.

Assembling the Bang Bang Salmon Bites:

1. Coat the Salmon with Sauce: Place the cooked salmon bites in a clean bowl. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over the salmon and toss gently to coat each piece evenly. Make sure every bite is generously covered in that delicious sauce!
2. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Bang Bang Salmon Bites to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the salmon.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha and cayenne pepper to control the spiciness of the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
• Air Fryer Option: For a healthier alternative, you can air fry the salmon bites instead of pan-searing them. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated salmon bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Baking Option: You can also bake the salmon bites. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated salmon bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Serving Suggestions: These Bang Bang Salmon Bites are delicious served as an appetizer, a main course, or as part of a rice bowl. They also pair well with steamed vegetables, noodles, or a fresh salad.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salmon bites are best served immediately after cooking, but you can cook them ahead of time and reheat them gently in the oven or air fryer.
• Salmon Substitute: If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can substitute it with other types of fish, such as tuna, cod, or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce in the Bang Bang sauce. Also, ensure that your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free.

Detailed Explanation of Ingredients:

Salmon:

The star of the show! I prefer using skinless salmon fillet for this recipe because it’s easier to cut into cubes and cooks more evenly. Look for salmon that is bright in color and has a fresh, clean smell. Avoid salmon that looks dull or has a fishy odor.

Cornstarch:

Cornstarch is essential for creating that crispy coating on the salmon. It helps to absorb moisture and creates a light, airy texture when fried or air-fried. Don’t skip this ingredient!

Garlic Powder and Onion Powder:

These two spices add a savory depth of flavor to the salmon bites. They complement the sweetness of the Bang Bang sauce perfectly.

Cayenne Pepper:

Cayenne pepper adds a touch of heat to the salmon bites. Adjust the amount to your preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a small amount and add more to taste.

Olive Oil:

Olive oil is used for cooking the salmon bites. It has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it ideal for searing. You can also use other cooking oils, such as vegetable oil or canola oil.

Mayonnaise:

Mayonnaise forms the base of the Bang Bang sauce. It adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. I recommend using a good-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor.

Sweet Chili Sauce:

Sweet chili sauce adds a sweet and slightly spicy flavor to the Bang Bang sauce. It’s a key ingredient that gives the sauce its signature taste. You can find sweet chili sauce in most Asian grocery stores or in the international aisle of your local supermarket.

Sriracha:

Sriracha adds a fiery kick to the Bang Bang sauce. Adjust the amount to your desired level of spiciness. If you’re not a fan of sriracha, you can substitute it with other hot sauces, such as chili garlic sauce or gochujang.

Rice Vinegar:

Rice vinegar adds a tangy flavor to the Bang Bang sauce. It helps to balance the sweetness and spiciness of the other ingredients. You can substitute it with other types of vinegar, such as white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Honey:

Honey adds a touch of sweetness to the Bang Bang sauce. It also helps to thicken the sauce and give it a glossy sheen. You can substitute it with other sweeteners, such as maple syrup or agave nectar.

Green Onions and Sesame Seeds:

These are optional garnishes that add flavor and visual appeal to the Bang Bang Salmon Bites. Green onions add a fresh, oniony flavor, while sesame seeds add a nutty crunch.

Lime Wedges:

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Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Bang Bang Salmon Bites are truly a game-changer. I know, I know, I might be a little biased, but trust me on this one. The combination of the perfectly cooked salmon, that incredible crispy coating, and the sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a flavor explosion in every single bite, and honestly, once you start, it’s hard to stop!

But why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s surprisingly easy to make. We’re talking minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking process. Even if you’re not a seasoned chef, you can absolutely nail this recipe. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. It works as a fantastic appetizer for parties, a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, or even a delicious addition to your lunchbox.

This recipe for Bang Bang Salmon Bites is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Looking for serving suggestions? I’ve got you covered! These bites are amazing served over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa. You can also toss them into a fresh salad for a protein-packed and flavorful meal. For a fun twist, try serving them in lettuce wraps with some shredded carrots, cucumbers, and a drizzle of extra Bang Bang sauce. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even use them as a topping for tacos or nachos!

Now, let’s talk variations. If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can easily substitute it with other types of fish like cod, tuna, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a vegetarian option, try using tofu or cauliflower florets. And if you want to kick up the heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Bang Bang sauce.

Another variation I love is to add a little bit of lime zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a zesty and refreshing flavor. You can also experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize this recipe to your liking. That’s the beauty of cooking – it’s all about experimenting and finding what works best for you.

I truly believe that these Bang Bang Salmon Bites will become a staple in your kitchen. They’re quick, easy, delicious, and incredibly versatile. What more could you ask for?

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And when you do try it, please, please, please share your experience with me! I’d love to hear your feedback, see your photos, and learn about any variations you’ve tried. You can leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or send me an email. I’m always excited to connect with fellow food lovers and hear about their culinary adventures.

I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! Remember, the key to perfect Bang Bang Salmon Bites is to not overcook the salmon and to adjust the sauce to your preferred level of spiciness. Enjoy!