The Day I Fell in Love with Bang Bang Salmon

It all started on a rainy Thursday evening when my craving for something crispy, spicy, and utterly comforting led me down a delicious rabbit hole. I had just come home from work, my feet aching and my stomach growling, when I spotted a lonely salmon fillet in the fridge. “What if,” I thought, “I turned this into something fun?” And just like that, my Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites were born—a dish so good, my husband shamelessly licked the plate clean. Now, it’s a weekly request in our house, and I have a feeling it might become one in yours too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple but mighty ingredients to create magic in your kitchen:

1 lb fresh salmon fillet – Skinless and cut into bite-sized cubes. Trust me, the crispier, the better!

1/2 cup cornstarch – The secret to that irresistible golden crunch.
2 eggs, lightly beaten – For that perfect clingy coating.
1/2 tsp garlic powder – Because everything tastes better with garlic.

1/2 tsp paprika – A smoky hint that plays so well with the sweetness.
Salt & pepper – To taste, of course.
Oil for frying – I love avocado oil for its high smoke point, but vegetable oil works too.

For the Bang Bang Sauce (the star of the show!):

1/4 cup mayonnaise – Creamy, dreamy base.
2 tbsp sweet chili sauce – The sweet to balance the heat.
1 tbsp sriracha – Adjust to your spice tolerance (I go heavy, no regrets).

1 tsp honey – A touch of golden sweetness to round it all out.
1 tsp lime juice – A bright little zing to cut through the richness.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Now, roll up your sleeves—this is where the fun begins. Here’s how to make those crispy, saucy bites of heaven:

Step 1: Prep Your Salmon

Pat your salmon dry with a paper towel (this ensures maximum crispiness!) and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Season lightly with salt and pepper—don’t go overboard, as the sauce will bring plenty of flavor later.

Step 2: The Coating Station

Set up your dredging station like a pro: one bowl with cornstarch, garlic powder, and paprika mixed together, and another with the beaten eggs. Dip each salmon cube first in the cornstarch (shake off excess), then the egg, and back into the cornstarch for a double coat. This is the trick for that extra-crispy exterior!

Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Test the oil by dropping in a tiny bit of cornstarch—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go. Fry the salmon bites in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or they’ll steam instead of fry (we want crunch, not sadness!). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Making these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites is a breeze, but a few little tricks can take them from great to unforgettable:

For extra crispiness: Pat the salmon dry with paper towels before cutting into cubes. Moisture is the enemy of crispy edges!

No panko? Crushed cornflakes or even crushed pork rinds (for a keto twist) work beautifully.
Heat adjustment: Love spice? Add a pinch of cayenne to the sauce. Prefer milder? Reduce the sriracha by half.
Salmon alternatives: Firm white fish like cod or halibut work well, or try shrimp for a fun twist.

What to Serve With Bang Bang Salmon Bites

These little flavor bombs are versatile! Here are some cozy pairings:

Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up the sauce
A crisp Asian slaw for refreshing contrast

Quick-pickled cucumbers (just vinegar, sugar, and salt!)
For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or butter lettuce cups

Storage and Reheating Tips

While best fresh, leftovers keep well with these tricks:

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, use an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes. Microwaving will soften the coating.
Freezing: Freeze before adding sauce for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in air fryer, then toss with freshly made sauce.

FAQ

Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
Absolutely! Bake at 425°F on a greased rack for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. They’ll be slightly less crispy but still delicious.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?
Greek yogurt works in a pinch, though the sauce will be tangier. For dairy-free, try vegan mayo.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach 145°F internally. The bites will continue cooking slightly after removing from heat.

Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes! Cook the bites 1-2 hours ahead, keep warm in a low oven (200°F), then toss with sauce right before serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about that first bite – the crackle of golden crust giving way to tender salmon, all wrapped in that sweet-spicy hug of bang bang sauce. Whether it’s weeknight dinner magic or your new go-to party appetizer, these little bites have a way of making any meal feel special. Don’t be surprised if they become one of those recipes you find yourself making again and again – we certainly do! Now go forth and enjoy every crispy, saucy bite.