🐟 Crispy Salmon Bites with Bang Bang Sauce
Description:
Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside — these golden salmon bites are lightly battered and fried to perfection, then served with a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce that’s completely addictive. It’s a crave-worthy appetizer, party snack, or bold main dish that’ll impress every time.
📝 Ingredients:
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb skinless salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp lime juice
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Prep the Salmon:
Cut salmon into 1-inch cubes. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Place in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes (or up to 30 minutes in the fridge).
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together all Bang Bang Sauce ingredients until smooth. Adjust sriracha for more or less heat. Set aside.
3. Mix the Dry Coating:
In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat about 1.5–2 inches of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). A small pinch of flour should sizzle on contact.
5. Coat & Fry:
Remove salmon from buttermilk, shake off excess, and dredge in the flour mixture until well coated. Fry in batches (don’t overcrowd) for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
6. Serve:
Serve salmon bites hot with the Bang Bang sauce on the side or drizzle it right on top. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro if desired.
🍽️ Servings:
- Serves: 3–4 as appetizer/snack, 2 as a main
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: ~25–30 minutes
✨ Tips & Notes:
- Buttermilk helps tenderize the salmon and makes the coating stick better.
- For extra crispiness, double-dip: flour > buttermilk > flour again.
- Air fryer? Totally! Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 mins, flipping halfway.
- Great with a side of jasmine rice, slaw, or as sliders in mini buns.
🔍 Nutritional Info (Approximate per serving with sauce, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 20g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
Will vary slightly based on oil absorption and sauce quantity used.
💪 Health Benefits:
- Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and B vitamins — supports heart, brain, and skin health.
- Garlic & Paprika: Anti-inflammatory spices that add depth and boost immunity.
- Lime Juice: Adds vitamin C and balances the richness.
- Honey: Natural sweetness without refined sugar.
❓ Q & A:
Q: Can I bake instead of fry?
A: Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 mins on a greased sheet, or use an air fryer for a lighter, crispy texture.
Q: What’s a good mayo substitute?
A: Greek yogurt works great for a lighter sauce. You can also try sour cream or avocado mayo.
Q: How spicy is it?
A: Mild to medium. Adjust the sriracha to your heat preference — or omit for a kid-friendly version.
Q: Can I prep ahead?
A: Sauce can be made a day in advance. Coat and fry salmon just before serving for best texture.
Would you like this turned into a printable or visual card format? Or want to pair it with a side dish recipe or drink suggestion? Let me know!