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Let me share my absolute favorite way to make salmon that had my whole family fighting over the last piece! These Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites came about during one of my late-night kitchen experiments and they've become our most requested dinner. The combination of that perfectly crispy exterior tender flaky salmon inside and my creamy spicy bang bang sauce is pure magic. Trust me once you try these you'll be hooked.
Why You'll Make These Again and Again
After countless times making these bites I can tell you they're basically foolproof. The recipe is so flexible you can make them super spicy or dial it back and that sauce oh that sauce! Even my son who claims he doesn't like fish asks for seconds. I love how quickly they come together perfect for those busy nights when you still want something special.
What You'll Need in Your Kitchen
- Salmon: I get mine from my local fish market it makes such a difference.
- My Spice Mix: A perfect blend of garlic and onion powder I've tweaked over time.
- That Amazing Paprika: Splurge on the good smoked stuff trust me.
- Bang Bang Sauce Magic: My secret weapon that makes everyone ask for the recipe.
Getting Started Right
First things first let's talk about prepping that salmon. I always pat it super dry with paper towels this is crucial for getting that amazing crispy exterior. Then I cut it into bite sized pieces about an inch and a half each. My secret is seasoning them generously with my spice blend making sure every piece gets lots of love. Sometimes I even let them sit for 10 minutes to really soak up those flavors.
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Cooking Magic Happens
Here's where the magic really happens! I love using my air fryer it gives these bites the most incredible crispy exterior while keeping the inside perfectly tender. If you're using a pan get it nice and hot first that sizzle when the salmon hits the pan is music to my ears. Either way keep an eye on them they cook quickly and you want that gorgeous golden color.
The Famous Sauce
While the salmon's cooking I whip up my famous bang bang sauce. It started as an experiment but now my family puts it on everything! The key is balancing the sweet chili sauce with just enough sriracha and that tiny splash of lime juice really makes everything pop. I always make extra because somehow it disappears mysteriously from the fridge.
Time to Plate
This is my favorite part watching it all come together. I drizzle that gorgeous sauce over the crispy salmon bites watching it cling to every piece. A sprinkle of fresh herbs makes everything look fancy and those sesame seeds add the perfect finishing touch. The hardest part is keeping everyone's hands away until I'm done plating!
Endless Possibilities
We love these bites so many ways! Sometimes I serve them over fluffy rice other times they become the star of our taco nights. For parties I arrange them on a platter with extra sauce for dipping and they disappear in minutes. My daughter even loves them cold the next day in her lunch box if there are any leftovers which honestly rarely happens in our house.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Which cooking method is best?
All methods work well. Air frying gives the crispiest exterior, pan-searing is quickest, and baking is best for larger portions. Choose based on your equipment and preference.
- → Can I make the sauce less spicy?
Yes, adjust the heat by reducing or omitting the sriracha and cayenne pepper. You can also increase the honey for a sweeter balance.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead?
Make the sauce ahead and store in the fridge. Cook the salmon just before serving for the best texture. Leftover sauce keeps well for several days.
- → What can I serve with this?
Serve over rice, with Asian slaw, or on a salad. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables or noodles for a complete meal.
- → Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before cooking. This ensures the salmon gets crispy on the outside while staying tender inside.