1. Prepare the Salmon
Rinse and pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Cut into 1-inch cubes, ensuring even sizing for uniform cooking.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Place salmon cubes in a bowl and pour over the buttermilk. Toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for 15–30 minutes (optional, but it helps tenderize and flavor the fish).
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
Mayonnaise
Sweet chili sauce
Sriracha
Honey
Lime juice
Taste and adjust the spice level with more sriracha if desired. Set aside or refrigerate until serving.
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3. Dredge the Salmon
In a shallow bowl or dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Remove salmon from the buttermilk (allow excess to drip off) and coat each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere well.
4. Fry the Salmon Bites
Heat vegetable oil (about 1 inch deep) in a heavy skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 350°F (175°C).
Ezoic
Working in batches, carefully place the salmon pieces in the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Air Fryer Option: Spray salmon bites with oil and cook in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve
Arrange the crispy salmon bites on a platter.
Drizzle with Bang Bang sauce or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
Garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions (like in your photo) and a squeeze of lime.
⏱️ Timing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time (optional): 15–30 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: ~35–45 minutes
Serving Suggestions
Serve over steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or garlic fried rice.
Add to tacos with slaw and extra Bang Bang sauce for spicy salmon tacos.
Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks and extra sauce for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Best reheated in the air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) until crisp, about 5–7 minutes.
Do not microwave unless you don’t mind them losing their crisp.
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