Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a flavor-packed, crunchy twist on the classic Bang Bang Shrimp dish. Tender pieces of salmon are marinated in buttermilk, coated in cornstarch, and fried to golden perfection, then tossed in a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish, these bites are crispy, juicy, and utterly addictive!

Prep Time

  • 15 minutes

Cook Time

  • 20 minutes

Total Time

  • 35 minutes

Servings

  • 4 servings (as an appetizer)

Ingredients

For the Salmon Bites:

  • 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works well)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Optional Garnish:

  • Chopped green onions
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Salmon

  1. Place the bite-sized salmon pieces in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Stir gently to ensure all the pieces are coated.
  2. Cover the bowl and let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes . This helps tenderize the fish and adds flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (or maple syrup), and garlic powder until smooth.
  2. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired. Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Coat the Salmon

  1. Remove the salmon from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off.
  2. Place the cornstarch in a shallow bowl. Dredge each piece of salmon in the cornstarch, shaking off any excess. This will create a light, crispy coating.

Step 4: Fry the Salmon Bites

  1. Heat about 1–2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) . Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  2. Carefully add the coated salmon bites to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2–3 minutes per batch , or until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried salmon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Toss in Sauce

  1. Place the fried salmon bites in a large bowl and drizzle the bang bang sauce over them. Gently toss to coat evenly, ensuring each piece is covered in the sweet and spicy sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Transfer the salmon bites to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
  2. Serve immediately with extra bang bang sauce on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips

  • Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at 350°F (175°C) to prevent the bites from absorbing too much oil or burning.
  • Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake the salmon bites at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes , flipping halfway through, after coating them in cornstarch.
  • Sauce Adjustments: Make the sauce milder by reducing the sriracha or sweeter by adding more honey.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 10g

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day . Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore crispiness.
  • Freeze: Freeze uncooked, coated salmon bites on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry or bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Variations

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cornstarch and check that your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free.
  • Add Veggies: Serve the salmon bites over a bed of stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cornstarch coating for extra heat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy exterior, tender interior, and bold bang bang sauce, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something indulgent, this recipe delivers big on taste and texture.

Ready to fry up some crispy, saucy goodness? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy these irresistible salmon bites!