Directions to follow

1. Pat the salmon cubes dry – Using paper towels, make sure the salmon is as dry as possible. This will help it fry better. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
2. Set up your breading station – In three bowls, place the flour in one, beaten eggs in the second, and combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in the third.
3. Coat the salmon – Take each salmon cube and dip it into the flour first. Then, roll it in the beaten eggs, followed by meticulously coating it in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
4. Fry the pieces – Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Fry the salmon bites for approximately 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Make the Bang Bang sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
6. Serve and enjoy – Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over your crispy salmon bites or set it on the side for dipping. For an added touch, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds to elevate presentation!

Best ways to enjoy it

These crispy salmon bites are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving suggestions. You can plate them artistically with a drizzle of Bang Bang sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for aesthetics. Serve them alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal or pair with rice and seasonal vegetables for a complete dining experience. They also make a delightful appetizer with cocktails, making them perfect for parties or gatherings.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you find yourself with leftovers, worry not! Store the salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for that regained crispiness. When it comes to freezing, ensure the bites are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container; they can last up to 3 months.

Pro chef tips

To achieve the utmost crispiness, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the salmon. A simple test is to drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good to go! Additionally, don’t crowd the pan while frying; this helps maintain the temperature and enhances crispiness. Finally, make sure to keep your station organized to move through the process smoothly.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? You can customize your Bang Bang Salmon Bites in a few fun ways. Consider adding different spices, like cayenne for extra heat or a sprinkle of lemon pepper for a zesty twist. Swap the sweet chili sauce for spicy garlic sauce for a unique flavor profile. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, try breading and frying tofu using the same method for a delightful plant-based option.

Common questions

How long does it take to make Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

From prep to finish, you can typically have these salmon bites ready in about 30–40 minutes.

Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

If panko breadcrumbs aren’t available, regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch, though the texture might be slightly less crunchy. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes can offer a delightful crunch as well.

Feel free to dive into this Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites recipe, and enjoy all the compliments that will come your way!