Bang Bang Salmon

I first discovered this incredible recipe during a quest to recreate restaurant-quality Asian fusion dishes at home. The Bang Bang Salmon Bites quickly became my signature dish - and for good reason. The process starts with cutting fresh salmon into perfect bite-sized cubes, ensuring each piece will cook evenly and develop that coveted crispy exterior. The magic happens when you sear these cubes in a hot pan with just a touch of oil, creating those beautiful golden-brown edges while keeping the interior tender and flaky. But the real star is the bang bang sauce - a glossy, addictive blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar that coats each piece in pure flavor heaven. The final touch of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but provides a fresh contrast to the rich, sweet, and spicy elements. Every time I make this dish, I'm reminded why it's become such a beloved recipe in my kitchen.

Why I love this recipe

What I absolutely love about this Bang Bang Salmon recipe is how it perfectly balances simplicity with incredible flavor impact. In less than 30 minutes, you can create something that tastes like it came from an upscale restaurant kitchen. The technique of cubing the salmon creates so much more surface area for that gorgeous caramelization, while the bang bang sauce is pure genius - creamy, sweet, tangy, and spicy all at once. It's one of those recipes that never fails to impress, whether I'm making it for a casual weeknight dinner or entertaining guests. The texture contrast is what really gets me - that crispy, caramelized exterior giving way to the most tender, flaky salmon inside. Plus, it's surprisingly versatile - you can adjust the heat level, serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or even as an elegant appetizer. Every single bite delivers that perfect combination of flavors and textures that keeps you coming back for more.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

• Fresh Salmon Fillet:Cut into 1.5-inch cubes, skin removed and patted dry
• Mayonnaise:Forms the creamy base for the bang bang sauce
• Sweet Chili Sauce:Provides sweetness and mild heat to the glaze
• Sriracha Sauce:Adds spicy kick and vibrant color
• Honey:Balances the heat with natural sweetness
• Rice Vinegar:Adds tangy acidity to brighten the sauce
• Fresh Parsley:Chopped finely for garnish and freshness

Let's Make These Together

Prepare the Salmon

Start by cutting your fresh salmon fillet into uniform 1.5-inch cubes, ensuring each piece is roughly the same size for even cooking. Remove any skin or small bones, then pat the cubes completely dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, allowing the seasoning to adhere to the surface.

Create the Bang Bang Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated. The sauce should have a glossy, pourable consistency with a beautiful orange color.

Sear to Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned salmon cubes in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side, turning gently to achieve golden-brown caramelization on all surfaces.

Glaze and Finish

Reduce the heat to low and pour the prepared bang bang sauce over the seared salmon cubes. Using a gentle tossing motion, coat each piece evenly with the sauce, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the sauce is heated through and creates a glossy coating. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

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Switch Things Up

I'll never forget the first time I made these salmon bites - I was trying to recreate a dish from my favorite Asian fusion restaurant. The moment I took that first bite of the perfectly crispy exterior giving way to the flaky, tender salmon inside, I knew I had struck gold. The bang bang sauce was the real game-changer though. That perfect balance of sweet honey, tangy rice vinegar, and just the right amount of heat from the sriracha had me completely hooked. Now it's become my go-to recipe whenever I want to treat myself or impress dinner guests. The best part? Watching everyone's faces light up when they taste that first bite - pure culinary magic!

Perfect Pairings

These Bang Bang Salmon Bites pair beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up that incredible sauce. For a lighter option, serve them over a crisp Asian slaw or mixed greens. They also work wonderfully as part of a larger spread alongside vegetable spring rolls, edamame, or pot stickers. For beverages, try pairing with a crisp Riesling, sake, or even a refreshing iced green tea to complement the sweet and spicy flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

While fresh salmon is preferred for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen salmon that has been completely thawed and patted dry. Just ensure all excess moisture is removed before seasoning and cooking.

→ How spicy is the bang bang sauce?

The heat level is moderate and adjustable. The combination of sweet chili sauce and sriracha provides a pleasant kick without being overwhelming. You can reduce the sriracha for milder heat or increase it for more spice.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The bang bang sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just whisk it again before using as the ingredients may separate slightly.

→ What's the best way to cut salmon into cubes?

Use a sharp knife and cut against the grain. Start by cutting the fillet into strips, then cut perpendicular to create cubes. Aim for 1.5-inch pieces for optimal cooking and presentation.

→ Can I bake these instead of pan-searing?

Yes, you can bake the seasoned salmon cubes at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, then toss with the sauce. However, pan-searing creates better caramelization and crispy edges.

Conclusion

These Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect combination of crispy, tender, sweet, and spicy all in one incredible bite. The glossy glaze creates an irresistible coating that makes each piece absolutely addictive. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer for guests or enjoying them as a main dish with rice, they never fail to impress. The restaurant-quality results you'll achieve at home will have everyone asking for the recipe!