🧑🍳 Introduction
Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside – these Bang Bang Salmon Bites are tossed in a spicy-sweet, creamy sauce that makes them totally addictive. Inspired by the popular Bang Bang Shrimp, this salmon twist brings in omega-3 goodness with all the same bold flavor and crunch. They’re bite-sized, easy to make, and perfect for dipping, wrapping, or topping over rice bowls.
📝 Ingredients
🐟 For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) skinless salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
- 1 cup cornstarch (or half cornstarch, half flour for extra crunch)
- Vegetable oil for frying
🌶 For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 tsp lime juice (optional, for tang)
🌿 Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
- Cilantro
👩🍳 Instructions & Method
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
- Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to help it crisp better.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Pour buttermilk over the salmon cubes and gently mix to coat. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prep your breading and sauce.
Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (if using), and lime juice.
- Taste and adjust for heat, sweetness, or tang. Set aside in the fridge.
Step 3: Coat and Fry the Salmon
- Heat 1.5–2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat (350°F / 175°C).
- Place cornstarch in a shallow dish or bowl.
- Remove salmon pieces from the buttermilk, shaking off excess, and dredge them in the cornstarch until evenly coated. Shake off excess starch before frying.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each batch for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a wire rack or paper towel–lined plate.
Step 4: Toss & Serve
- Let salmon bites cool for 1–2 minutes.
- Toss gently in the Bang Bang Sauce (or drizzle the sauce on top if you prefer to keep them ultra-crispy).
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Serve over jasmine rice or in lettuce cups.
- Add to tacos with slaw and avocado.
- Pair with a fresh cucumber salad or pickled veggies for contrast.
🔁 Tips & Variations
- Air Fryer Version: Coat the salmon in oil spray and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Baked Version: Bake at 425°F (220°C) on a parchment-lined tray for 12–15 minutes until crisp and cooked through.
- Extra Heat? Add cayenne pepper or more sriracha to the sauce.
- Gluten-Free? Use gluten-free cornstarch and check labels on sauces.