Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls – a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the crunch of crispy salmon with the spicy kick of Bang Bang sauce! Here's the complete recipe, including the required ingredients and cooking steps, as well as tips on correct cooking techniques to make it tastier.
**Ingredients:**
For the Salmon Bites:
* 12 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin removed)
* 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon lemon zest
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
* 1 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1 tablespoon grated ginger
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowls:
* Cooked white or brown rice
* Roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas)
* Sliced green onions
* Sesame seeds
* Pickled ginger, for serving (optional)
**Cooking Steps:**
1. **Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:** In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and garlic. Blend until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
2. **Prepare the Salmon Bites:** Cut the salmon fillets into 1-inch cubes. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. In a separate dish, beat the egg. Dip each salmon cube into the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the coated salmon cubes on a plate or tray.
3. **Fry the Salmon Bites:** Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add 3-4 salmon bites (do not overcrowd the skillet). Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with the remaining salmon cubes.
4. **Assemble the Bowls:** Cook white or brown rice according to package instructions. Roast the vegetables in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender. Divide the cooked rice between bowls. Top with fried salmon bites, roasted vegetables, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve with a side of Bang Bang Sauce for drizzling.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For an extra crispy coating, chill the coated salmon cubes in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying.
* Use different types of breadcrumbs, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, for a varying flavor and texture.
* Substitute the Parmesan cheese with grated cheddar or feta for a different flavor profile.
* Add some spice to the Bang Bang Sauce by increasing the amount of Sriracha or adding diced jalapeños.
* Use different vegetables for roasting, such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus.
* Add some crunch to the bowls with toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts.
* For a gluten-free and paleo-friendly option, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond meal.
**Correct Cooking Technique:**
* When frying the salmon bites, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish. This will help create a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
* Don't overcrowd the skillet when frying the salmon bites, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in a greasy or undercooked coating.
* For the Bang Bang Sauce, be gentle when blending the ingredients to avoid creating an uneven consistency. You can also refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld.
* Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature (350°F to 375°F) for frying the salmon bites.
Enjoy your delicious Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls!