Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls Recipe is one of my favorite dishes to whip up when I want something quick yet packed with flavor. The combination of crispy salmon bites tossed in a spicy, creamy sauce served over a bed of rice or greens is simply irresistible. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a local restaurant, and I knew I had to remake it at home.
Why I Love Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls
The first time I tasted Bang Bang sauce, I was hooked. It’s creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet, making it the perfect accompaniment to salmon. The crispy texture of the salmon bites adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the rice or greens. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, and I love how versatile it is.
Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls
Servings: 4
Salmon Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skinless and boneless
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lime juice
Serving Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups mixed greens or shredded cabbage
- Sliced green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Preparing the Salmon
First, I start by cutting the salmon fillet into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easier to cook and eat. I like to use fresh salmon for the best flavor, but frozen salmon can work too. Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
Breading the Salmon Bites
Next, I set up a breading station with three bowls. In the first bowl, I place the flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In the second bowl, I beat the eggs. The third bowl holds the Panko breadcrumbs.
I take each piece of salmon, coat it in flour, dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with Panko breadcrumbs. This triple-dipping method ensures a crispy exterior.
Frying the Salmon Bites
I heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, I carefully add the breaded salmon bites in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. I fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
Once cooked, I place the salmon bites on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. This step keeps them crispy and delicious.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
While the salmon is frying, I whip up the Bang Bang sauce. In a bowl, I mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice. This sauce is the star of the dish, bringing everything together with its creamy and spicy flavor.
Assembling the Bowls
Now comes the fun part—assembling the bowls! I start by placing a generous scoop of cooked rice at the bottom of each bowl. Next, I add a handful of mixed greens or shredded cabbage for some crunch and freshness.
Then, I pile on the crispy salmon bites and drizzle them generously with the Bang Bang sauce. I finish it off with a sprinkle of sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Tips
To make the best Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls, here are some tips I’ve learned along the way:
- Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon has a better flavor and texture compared to frozen. If using frozen, make sure it is fully thawed.
- Don’t Skip the Panko: Panko breadcrumbs give the salmon a light and crispy coating. Regular breadcrumbs won’t achieve the same texture.
- Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of Sriracha. For extra heat, add more!
Variations on Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. Here are some variations I enjoy:
- Add Vegetables: You can add steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra nutrition.
- Swap the Protein: If salmon isn’t your thing, try shrimp or chicken instead. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Make it Spicy: For those who love heat, add diced jalapeños or extra Sriracha to the sauce.
Meal Prep and Storage
Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls are great for meal prep. You can make the salmon and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Here’s how I do it:
- Store Salmon: Keep the cooked salmon bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Store Sauce: The Bang Bang sauce can also be stored in the fridge for about a week. Just give it a good stir before using.
- Reheat: To reheat the salmon, I pop it in the oven for a few minutes to keep it crispy.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls Recipe has become a family favorite at my house. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of crispy salmon and creamy sauce over rice or greens makes it a satisfying meal.
I hope you give this Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls Recipe a try. It’s a fun way to enjoy salmon and brings a restaurant-quality meal right to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to impress.