These crispy, spicy salmon bites are the perfect combination of crunchy, tender, and flavorful. Coated in a spicy batter and fried to perfection, they are an irresistible treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. Whether you’re a fan of fish or just looking to spice up your menu, these bites will surely become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I absolutely love how these crispy spicy salmon bites offer the perfect balance of heat, crunch, and savory goodness. The batter creates a crispy exterior while the salmon remains tender and moist on the inside. The spicy sauce adds a flavorful kick that brings everything together. Plus, the recipe is quick to make, so I can enjoy these delicious bites in no time. It’s a great snack or appetizer for any occasion, and the addition of sesame seeds and green onions for garnish gives them a fresh touch.
Ingredients
1 lb salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized cubes
1/2 cup flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to desired spice level)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup water (or as needed to create the batter)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
1 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil for frying)
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Cut the salmon fillets into bite-sized cubes and set them aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
Slowly add water to the dry ingredients, stirring until you form a thick batter that will coat the salmon. Add water gradually to ensure the batter is not too runny.
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha sauce, and honey to make the spicy sauce.
Heat sesame oil (or vegetable oil) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Dip each piece of salmon into the batter, coating it evenly. Then, carefully place the battered salmon into the hot oil.
Fry the salmon bites for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
Drizzle the spicy sauce over the crispy salmon bites and toss to coat evenly.
Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired, and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
Gluten-Free: I can easily make these salmon bites gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
Spicier: If I prefer more heat, I can increase the cayenne pepper or add extra sriracha sauce to the batter or spicy sauce.
Sweetness Adjustment: For a sweeter taste, I can add a bit more honey to the sauce or even a splash of maple syrup.
Air Fryer Version: If I want a healthier version, I can air-fry the battered salmon instead of frying them in oil. The result will be crispy and delicious but with less oil.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: If I have any leftovers, I can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, I prefer using an air fryer or a hot skillet to maintain the crispy texture. I avoid microwaving them, as that can make them soggy.
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FAQs
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If I like more heat, I can increase the cayenne pepper in the batter or add extra sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture. I can also sprinkle some chili flakes on top before serving.
Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Yes, I can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil for frying these salmon bites. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but sesame oil is preferred for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! If I’m using frozen salmon, I make sure to thaw it properly before cutting it into bite-sized cubes.
How do I ensure the salmon stays crispy?
The key to keeping the salmon crispy is to make sure the batter is thick enough to coat the fish and to fry it at the right temperature. I make sure the oil is hot enough before frying, and I drain the bites on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Can I make these in advance?
I recommend making these salmon bites fresh for the best crispiness. However, I can prepare the batter and sauce in advance, then fry and assemble the bites when ready to serve.
Conclusion
These crispy spicy salmon bites are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack. The crispy texture combined with the spicy sauce is an irresistible combination. I love how versatile the recipe is, allowing me to adjust the spice level and use different types of oil or flour. Whether I’m making these for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving, they’re always a hit.
📖 Recipe:
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Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These crispy spicy salmon bites are the ultimate snack or appetizer, featuring a perfect balance of crispy, tender salmon coated in a flavorful, spicy batter. Perfect for any occasion, these bite-sized salmon pieces are fried to perfection and drizzled with a zesty sauce, offering a delicious combination of heat and crunch. Ideal for seafood lovers or those looking to spice up their menu, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
1 lb salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized cubes
1/2 cup flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to desired spice level)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup water (or as needed to create the batter)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
1 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil for frying)
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Cut the salmon fillets into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
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Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a thick batter forms.
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In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha sauce, and honey to create the spicy sauce.
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Heat sesame oil (or vegetable oil) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Dip each piece of salmon into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Carefully place the battered salmon into the hot oil.
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Fry the salmon bites for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.
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Drizzle the spicy sauce over the crispy salmon bites and toss to coat evenly.
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Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free.
Spicier: Increase cayenne pepper or add extra sriracha for more heat.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or hot skillet to maintain crispiness.
Reheating: Avoid microwaving for the best texture; opt for air frying or skillet reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired, Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 280 kcal
