Salmon Bang Bang Bites
These Salmon Bang Bang Bites are the perfect balance of crispy, tender salmon and a creamy, spicy sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance! Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, this flavour-packed bite is sure to be the star of the meal. The air fryer gives them that perfect crispiness while keeping the salmon moist, and the homemade Bang Bang sauce brings the heat and sweetness everyone loves. Toss them over rice, sprinkle on some sesame seeds, and you’ve got a dish that’s both fun and fancy!
Equipment
- Air-Fryer Optional
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs salmon about 4 fillets, skin removed, cut into 1-inch bites
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Chives or green onions thinly sliced, for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Hot peppers optional
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 cup kewpie mayonnaise or regular mayonnaise
- ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 tsp Sriracha or more to taste
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tsp rice vinegar (optional)
Instructions
Oven Method
- cook rice according to package
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or tinfoil.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the salmon bites to the bowl and toss gently to coat evenly with the seasoning.
- In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and a drizzle of sesame oil.
- Pour half of the Bang Bang sauce into a separate bowl and reserve for drizzling after cooking. Toss the salmon bites in the remaining sauce.
- Arrange the seasoned salmon bites in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet (do not brush with Bang Bang sauce until after baking).
- Bake for 16 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Serve the salmon over rice, drizzle with the reserved Bang Bang sauce, and garnish with chives, sesame seeds, and optional hot peppers.
- Serve extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping.
Air Fryer Method
- cook rice according to package
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the salmon bites to the bowl and toss gently to coat evenly with the seasoning.
- In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and a drizzle of sesame oil.
- Pour half of the Bang Bang sauce into a separate bowl and reserve for drizzling after cooking. Toss the salmon bites in the remaining sauce.
- Working in batches, place the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket (lining with parchment or tinfoil for easier cleanup, if desired).
- Air fry for 4-5 minutes, flip the salmon, and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F.
- Serve the salmon over rice, drizzle with the reserved Bang Bang sauce, and garnish with chives, sesame seeds, and optional hot peppers. Don't for get the extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Rice Options: You can use any variety of rice—jasmine, basmati, or calrose rwork well. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of rice you use.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce. For extra heat, feel free to add more!
- Air Fryer Tips: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the salmon in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring an even crisp.
- Extra Crispy Salmon: For a crispier texture, you can lightly coat the salmon in breadcrumbs before air frying or baking.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish can be served over rice as a main course or as a smaller appetizer with toothpicks for dipping. It pairs nicely with a light cucumber salad or steamed vegetables for added crunch.
Tried this recipe?
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Mention @thewifewiththeknife or tag #wifewiththeknife