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Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are golden, crunchy, and coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy bang bang sauce. These bite-sized salmon pieces are tender on the inside and extra crispy on the outside, making them the perfect appetizer, snack, or main dish. Serve them with rice, in tacos, or as a party favorite. Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick and flavorful recipe is sure to be a hit!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Seafood
Keyword: Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Calories: 380kcal

Ingredients

  • For the Salmon Bites:
  • 1 lb salmon fillet cut into 1-inch cubes
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 egg beaten
  • ½ cup buttermilk or regular milk with 1 tsp vinegar
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup cornstarch or all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce optional for spice
  • cups vegetable oil for frying
  • For the Bang Bang Sauce:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha adjust to spice preference
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice

Instructions

Prep the Salmon

  • Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with a paper towel.
  • Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

Coat the Salmon

  • In one bowl, whisk together egg, buttermilk, and hot sauce.
  • In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and cornstarch.
  • Dip each salmon piece into the buttermilk mixture, then coat it in the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.

Fry Until Crispy

  • Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat (about 350°F / 175°C).
  • Fry the salmon bites in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  • Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Make the Bang Bang Sauce

  • In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice.
  • Taste and adjust spice level as needed.

Toss & Serve

  • Drizzle or toss the crispy salmon bites in the bang bang sauce.
  • Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra crunch, double-coat the salmon in panko.
  • For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes.
  • Adjust spice level by adding more or less sriracha to the sauce.
  • Make ahead tip: Coat the salmon bites in advance and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before frying.