Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites: A Sweet and Spicy Breakfast Hero

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate your breakfast game with a dish that balances crispy texture, bold flavors, and a hint of sweetness, these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are exactly what you need. The combination of crispy golden-brown salmon coated in a luscious, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce creates a mouthwatering contrast that makes this recipe an absolute standout. Whether served on toast, with eggs, or in a breakfast bowl, these salmon bites bring restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen.

Ingredients

salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized pieces
buttermilk
all-purpose flour
cornstarch
baking powder
salt
black pepper
paprika
garlic powder
cayenne pepper
egg
panko breadcrumbs
vegetable oil for frying
mayonnaise
sweet chili sauce
sriracha
honey
lime juice
scallions for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Set aside for later.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon pieces in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes. This helps to tenderize the salmon and allows the coating to adhere better.
3. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
4. Bread the Salmon: Remove the salmon pieces from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, then into the beaten egg, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to submerge the salmon pieces for even frying.
6. Fry the Salmon: Carefully add the breaded salmon bites to the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Coat with Sauce: Toss the crispy salmon bites in the prepared Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped scallions and serve immediately. Enjoy with eggs, toast, or as part of a breakfast bowl.

Variations

• Air Fryer Method: Instead of deep frying, air fry the salmon bites at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Baked Option: Place the breaded salmon bites on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend for the coating.
• Extra Spicy Version: Increase the amount of sriracha and add a dash of hot sauce to the Bang Bang sauce.
• Honey Garlic Twist: Replace sriracha with garlic powder and add extra honey for a milder, sweeter version.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2-3

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes or in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 minutes to retain crispiness.
• Freezing: It’s best to freeze the breaded salmon pieces before frying. Once coated, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, fry or air-fry from frozen.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! Just ensure the salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before marinating to prevent excess moisture.

What can I serve with these salmon bites for breakfast?

They pair well with scrambled eggs, avocado toast, breakfast potatoes, or even a light salad.

Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

How do I make this dish healthier?

Opt for the air fryer or baked method instead of deep frying, and use a lighter mayonnaise for the sauce.

What type of salmon works best?

Fresh, wild-caught salmon is ideal, but farm-raised works well too. Just ensure it’s firm and not too fatty.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! You can adjust the spice level by reducing the amount of sriracha and cayenne.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Sure! Cod, tilapia, or even shrimp work well as substitutes.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a quick buttermilk substitute by mixing milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for a few minutes.

How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Ensure the salmon is patted dry before marinating, and press the panko firmly onto the surface.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Simply scale up the ingredients while keeping the cooking method the same.

Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites bring a deliciously bold twist to breakfast with their perfect blend of crunch, spice, and sweetness. Whether you enjoy them on their own, as part of a hearty breakfast platter, or tucked into a sandwich, these salmon bites are sure to become a new favorite in your morning routine. Give them a try and start your day with a bite of indulgence!

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