These Crunchy Bang Bang Salmon Popcorn Bites are a fun and tasty treat! Imagine crispy bites of salmon coated in a crunchy breading, then tossed in a zesty Bang Bang sauce. Yum!
These little delights are perfect for snack time or as a party appetizer. Whenever I make them, everyone races to grab a few – they’re just that good! 🐟✨
I like to serve them with a side of extra sauce for dipping. It makes them even more fun to eat, and trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets work best for this recipe, but you can also use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking. For a different flavor, try using other fish like cod or tilapia!
Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs give a great crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, but they won’t be as crispy. You can also make your own by toasting slices of bread and crushing them.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the go-to choice here. If you want a gluten-free option, you can substitute with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Both will still help create a crispy outside.
Mayonnaise: For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be used instead of mayonnaise in the sauce. It offers a nice tang and a healthier profile without losing creaminess.
Sriracha: Adjust the spice level to your liking! If sriracha is too hot, consider using a mild hot sauce or even a touch of honey for sweetness without heat.
How Do You Get Your Salmon Bites Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunch is all about the dredging technique and ensuring your oil is hot enough. Here’s how to make it work:
- Make sure you coat each salmon cube thoroughly—start with the flour mixture to create a dry layer that helps the egg and panko stick well.
- Press down gently on the panko coating so it bonds to the salmon; this ensures a lovely crunch when fried.
- Heat your oil to around 350°F before adding the salmon bites. If it’s too cold, they’ll absorb oil and become soggy.
- Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature; overcrowding will drop the heat and affect crispiness.
How to Make Crunchy Bang Bang Salmon Popcorn Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, for a total of about 30 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a tasty appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Batter:
Start by setting up your three bowls. In the first bowl, pour in the panko breadcrumbs. In the second bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. In the third bowl, beat the eggs until they’re nice and frothy. This will create a delicious coating for your salmon bites!
2. Heat the Oil:
Take a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
3. Coat the Salmon Cubes:
Now it’s time to prepare your salmon cubes! Take each piece of salmon and dredge it in the flour mixture first, making sure to coat it well. Next, dip the floured salmon into the beaten eggs, and finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the crumbs stick nicely to the salmon.
4. Fry the Salmon Bites:
Once your oil is hot, carefully place a few salmon bites into the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, flipping occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy all over. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your liking—more for a spicy kick, or less if you prefer it milder. This sauce will add a deliciously tangy flavor to your bites!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Drizzle the crispy salmon bites with the Bang Bang sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious Crunchy Bang Bang Salmon Popcorn Bites while they’re hot!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. The best way to thaw salmon is to place it in the fridge overnight or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry before cutting into cubes to ensure a nice coating.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs instead. The texture won’t be as light and crispy, but it will still add a nice crunch. You could even crush up some cornflakes as a great alternative!
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to help restore some of their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it, as the ingredients might separate while sitting. This makes it super convenient for dipping or drizzling when you’re ready to serve!
