- Cut the salmon into cubes. Cut the salmon fillet into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches. Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture for a crispier result.
- Prepare the dredging station. Set up three shallow bowls:
- In the first bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In the second bowl, place the beaten eggs.
- In the third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat the salmon. Dip each piece of salmon first into the seasoned flour mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
Stage 2: Cooking the Salmon Bites
You can either fry the salmon bites in a pan, air fry them, or bake them for a healthier option.
For Frying:
- Heat the oil. In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot (around 350°F or 175°C).
- Fry the salmon. Working in batches, carefully add the breaded salmon pieces to the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip the salmon gently.
- Drain the excess oil. Remove the fried salmon bites and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
For Air Frying:
- Preheat the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Air fry the salmon. Lightly spray the salmon bites with cooking spray, then place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
For Baking (Healthier Option):
- Preheat the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the salmon. Place the coated salmon bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crispy and golden, flipping halfway through for even baking.
Stage 3: Preparing the Bang Bang Sauce
- Make the sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and honey (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or spice level by adding more honey or sriracha, if needed.
- Season to taste. Add a pinch of salt if desired and mix again.
Stage 4: Assembling the Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Coat the salmon bites. Once the salmon bites are cooked, place them in a large bowl. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the salmon bites and toss gently to coat them evenly. Alternatively, you can serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish and serve. Transfer the salmon bites to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges for a fresh, zesty kick.
Stage 5: Serving Suggestions
- Serve these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites as an appetizer, a snack, or a light main course.
- Pair with a side of steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a crunchy salad for a more complete meal.
- For an extra burst of freshness, squeeze a little lime juice over the top just before serving.
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Salmon Bites:
- Use fresh, quality salmon. Fresh salmon ensures the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw the salmon properly before cutting it into cubes.
- For extra crispy bites: You can double-coat the salmon by dipping it in the flour mixture, then the egg and breadcrumbs, repeating the process for an even crunchier exterior.
- Adjust the sauce: If you like it spicier, add more sriracha. For a sweeter touch, increase the amount of honey.
- Serve immediately. These salmon bites are best served right away while they’re still crispy.
Final Thoughts:
These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect combination of crispy, tender, sweet, and spicy. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to be a hit at your next meal or gathering. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, the bang bang sauce brings the perfect balance of heat and sweetness to the salmon. Enjoy!