Description
If you’re a fan of crispy, spicy, and melt-in-your-mouth salmon, then these Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites are about to become your new obsession. Picture this: tender chunks of salmon, seasoned with bold spices, lightly battered and fried to golden perfection. These bites are crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, with a spicy kick that’ll make your taste buds dance. This recipe is everything you love about salmon — with the added bonus of a crispy coating and a fiery zing. It’s the perfect appetizer, snack, or light main dish. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something delicious, these spicy salmon bites are sure to impress. Get ready for a flavor-packed experience that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.
Ingredients
1 pound fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-size pieces
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup buttermilk (or regular milk if you don’t have buttermilk)
2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by cutting the salmon fillet into bite-size pieces, about 1-2 inches each. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help the coating stick better.
Step 2: Make the Dry Coating
In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will give your salmon that crispy, flavorful crust.
Step 3: Dip and Coat
Pour the buttermilk (or regular milk) into a shallow dish. Take each piece of salmon and dip it into the buttermilk, then coat it thoroughly in the dry mixture. Press the salmon pieces gently into the flour mixture to ensure a good, even coat. Set aside.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated salmon pieces in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook in batches. Fry the salmon bites for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the salmon bites from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Spicy Sauce
While the salmon is frying, prepare the spicy sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the sriracha sauce, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth. Taste and adjust the heat by adding more sriracha if you want it spicier, or more honey for a sweeter balance.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Once all the salmon bites are fried, drizzle the spicy sauce over the top or toss the bites in the sauce to coat them evenly. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for that extra citrusy pop.
Notes
Serve these crispy salmon bites with a side of steamed rice or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce, like a creamy avocado dressing or a cool ranch dip, to balance the heat.
Want a more substantial meal? Serve them on top of a bed of mixed greens or in tacos with some fresh salsa and guacamole.
These bites are also perfect with a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea to cool down the heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~300 calories per serving
- Protein: ~25g per serving