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Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Jessica Tran
These Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a delicious combination of crispy, spicy, and sweet flavors, making them a perfect appetizer or main dish for seafood lovers. With versatile cooking options and customizable heat levels, this dish can be tailored to suit any preference.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Seafood
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Sharp Knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Thermometer (for frying)
  • Air fryer/oven (depending on method)
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon:

  • 1 Large salmon fillet skin removed
  • 1 tsp All-purpose seasoning
  • 1 tsp Lemon-based seasoning
  • 1 tsp Creole seasoning
  • ½ tsp Cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup Buttermilk
  • 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
  • ½ cup Cornmeal
  • ½ cup All-purpose flour

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

  • ½ cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
  • 2 tbsp Sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tsp All-purpose seasoning

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

  • Remove the skin from the salmon by making a slit at the tail end.
  • Slide a knife between the flesh and skin to separate.
  • Trim belly meat for uniformity.
  • Cut the salmon into 1-inch cubes.

Step 2: Season & Marinate

  • Season the salmon with all-purpose seasoning, lemon seasoning, Creole seasoning, and cayenne.
  • In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk and sriracha for marinade.
  • Soak the salmon cubes in the marinade for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

  • In a bowl, mix cornmeal and flour with leftover seasonings.
  • Remove the salmon from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
  • Dredge the salmon cubes in the seasoned coating mixture until well coated.

Step 4: Make Bang Bang Sauce

  • In another bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and all-purpose seasoning.
  • Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

Step 5: Cook the Salmon

  • Choose Your Cooking Method:

Traditional Deep Fry:

  • Heat oil to 350°F.
  • Fry salmon bites for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

Air Fryer Method:

  • Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
  • Spray the basket with oil.
  • Cook salmon bites for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Oven-Baked Option:

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  • Place salmon bites on a lined baking sheet.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes.

Step 6: Finish & Serve

  • Toss the hot salmon bites in the Bang Bang Sauce.
  • Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
  • Serve immediately while crispy.

Video

Notes

Temperature Matters: Ensure proper preheating for frying, air frying, or baking.
Don't Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary to maintain crispiness.
Sauce Control: Start with a light coating of sauce, as you can always add more.
Make Ahead: Prepping the salmon and sauce in advance can save time before serving.