Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a fun and tasty treat that combines crispy salmon chunks with a sweet and spicy sauce that really wakes up your taste buds. The outside is perfectly crunchy while the inside stays tender and flaky, making each bite a delightful mix of textures. The bang bang sauce adds just the right kick, paired with a touch of sweetness that keeps you coming back for more.
I love making these salmon bites when I want something quick but impressive. The crispy coating on the salmon makes it feel special, like a little appetizer you’d get at a restaurant. And the sweet and spicy sauce? It’s so easy to whip up, and you can adjust the heat to your liking. Plus, the recipe is great for using up salmon in a fun new way.
My favorite way to serve these crispy salmon bites is over a bed of rice or alongside some crunchy veggies to balance out the flavors. They’re also perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a tasty snack when you’re craving something a little different. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is key for tender, flaky bites. If fresh isn’t available, thawed frozen salmon works too. Avoid oily or super thin fillets for best results.
Panko breadcrumbs: These create the crispy crunch. You can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko gives a lighter, airier texture.
Bang Bang Sauce: Made with mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt instead of mayo. Adjust sriracha to your heat preference.
Oil for frying: Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for a high smoke point. Olive oil can burn easily here, so avoid it for crisp frying.
How Do You Get the Salmon Crispy Without Overcooking the Inside?
Balancing a crispy outside with a juicy inside is the trick. Here’s how:
- Pat dry salmon to remove moisture—this helps the coating stick and crisp up.
- Coat evenly with flour, egg wash, and panko. Don’t skip the flour; it helps create a barrier.
- Heat oil to medium-high before adding bites to get that quick sizzle.
- Fry salmon cubes for just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking dries them out.
- Use a wide pan and avoid overcrowding – crowded pans lower oil temperature and cause soggy bites.
With these steps, you’ll get perfectly crispy edges and tender salmon inside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan – I recommend a good non-stick or cast-iron skillet for even heat and easy cleanup.
- Tongs or slotted spoon – These help turn the salmon bites carefully without breaking them.
- Small bowls – You’ll need three: one for flour, one for egg wash, and one for panko breadcrumbs, to keep coating organized and mess-free.
- Paper towels – Perfect for draining excess oil after frying, so your bites stay crispy.
- Whisk – Use it to mix the bang bang sauce smoothly and evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein swap: Use chicken chunks or shrimp instead of salmon for a different take on crispy bites.
- Cheese boost: Mix a little grated Parmesan into the panko coating for extra flavor and crunch.
- Veggie addition: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or scallions into the sauce or serve on the side for freshness.
- Spice it up: Add more sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce if you like your bites extra spicy.
Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites (Sweet And Spicy)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 tbsp black sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
For The Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 tbsp sweet chili sauce (adjust for sweetness)
- 1-2 tsp sriracha sauce (adjust for heat)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Pinch of garlic powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so around 25 minutes in total. It’s quick from start to finish, perfect for a tasty snack or a light dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispy texture.
2. Set Up Coating Stations:
In one shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, whisk the egg with water. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl. These stations will help you coat the salmon evenly.
3. Coat the Salmon Cubes:
Dip each salmon piece first in the flour mixture, shaking off the extra. Then dip it into the egg wash. Finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until well coated.
4. Fry the Salmon:
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, carefully add the coated salmon cubes without crowding the pan. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder until smooth. Taste and adjust the sweetness or heat to your liking.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Arrange the crispy salmon bites on a plate. Drizzle with the bang bang sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and black sesame seeds if you like.
7. Enjoy!
Serve immediately for the best crispy texture. These bites are great as appetizers or served alongside rice and veggies for a full meal.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight and pat it dry before coating. This helps maintain a crispy crust and prevents sogginess.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Swap the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives like rice flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. The process stays the same, and you’ll still get a nice crunch.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Salmon Bites?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated salmon bites on a greased baking sheet, and bake for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through until crispy and cooked through.
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon Bites and Sauce?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the salmon bites in a hot skillet or oven to regain some crispiness. Store the sauce separately and give it a good stir before serving.
