Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites: The Perfect Asian-Inspired Appetizer
Looking for a show-stopping appetizer? These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites deliver an irresistible combination of crunchy texture and bold flavors. This easy-to-follow recipe transforms simple salmon into addictively delicious bites coated in the famous bang bang sauce that everyone loves.
Why You’ll Love These Bang Bang Salmon Bites
These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites perfectly balance crispy exterior and tender, flaky salmon inside. The signature bang bang sauce adds a creamy, sweet, and spicy kick that makes these bites irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an exciting weeknight dinner, these salmon bites will become your new favorite.
What is Bang Bang Sauce?
The star of these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites is the signature sauce. Originally popularized in Asian fusion cuisine, bang bang sauce combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha to create a creamy, sweet, and spicy condiment that perfectly complements the crispy salmon.
Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
For the Salmon:
- 1½ pounds fresh salmon, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture
- Season with salt and pepper
- Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes:
- Dish 1: Flour seasoned with garlic and onion powder
- Dish 2: Beaten eggs
- Dish 3: Panko breadcrumbs
Step 2: Bread the Salmon
- Dredge each salmon cube in the seasoned flour
- Dip in beaten eggs
- Coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs
- Place breaded pieces on a baking sheet
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha
- Add honey, rice vinegar, and minced garlic
- Whisk until smooth and well combined
- Refrigerate until ready to serve
Step 4: Fry the Salmon Bites
- Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C)
- Fry salmon bites in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels
- Season with salt while still hot
Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best results
- Keep the oil temperature consistent for even cooking
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying
- Make the bang bang sauce ahead of time to let flavors meld
- Serve immediately while the salmon bites are hot and crispy
Serving Suggestions
These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites make an excellent:
- Party appetizer
- The main course when served with rice and vegetables
- Game day snack
- Asian fusion dinner starter
Storage and Reheating
While these Bang Bang Salmon Bites are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Recipe Variations
- Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, spray the breaded salmon bites with cooking spray and bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes
- Spicy Bang Bang Salmon: Double the Sriracha in the sauce for extra heat
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko and flour for breading
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, sweet, and spicy. The tender salmon paired with the irresistible bang bang sauce creates a memorable dish for your guests to ask for the recipe. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, these bang-bang salmon bites will surely become a regular in your recipe rotation.