Fried salmon bites combine the crispy crunch of golden breading with the tender, flavorful richness of salmon. These bite-sized delights are incredibly versatile, making them ideal as a quick dinner, a shareable appetizer, or even a unique addition to tacos and wraps. You can create this irresistible seafood treat in under 30 minutes with just a few simple ingredients and steps. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces: This is the star of the dish, offering a tender and juicy texture.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the breading.
- ½ cup cornmeal (optional for extra crunch): Adds texture to the coating.
- 1 tsp paprika: Enhances color and flavor.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic note.
- ½ tsp onion powder: For a subtle, sweet undertone.
- ½ tsp salt: Season the breading.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Balances the flavors with a mild kick.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Helps the breading adhere to the salmon.
- Vegetable oil: For frying, it ensures even crispiness.
The Optional Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Creamy base for the sauce.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy depth of flavor.
- 1 tbsp honey: Balances the tanginess with sweetness.
- 1 tsp lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with acidity.
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional for heat): Adds a spicy kick.
Tools You’ll Need
- Cutting board and knife (for prepping salmon).
- Mixing bowls (for breading and dipping).
- Deep frying pan or skillet (for frying).
- Tongs or a slotted spoon (for handling hot food).
- Paper towels (for draining excess oil).
How to Make Fried Salmon Bites
Prepare the Salmon
- Paint the salmon pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures the breading adheres well and creates a crispy finish.
- Lightly season the salmon with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper for enhanced flavor.
Set Up the Breading Station
- Combine the flour, cornmeal (if using), paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs until they are smooth.
Bread the Salmon Bites
- Dip each salmon piece into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated. Shake off any excess.
- Next, immerse the floured salmon in the beaten eggs, letting any surplus egg drip off.
- Return the salmon to the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading sticks firmly.
Heat the Oil
- Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or skillet. Warm the oil on medium-high heat until it attains a temperature of 350°F (175°C). A small pinch of breading dropped into the oil should sizzle immediately.
Fry the Salmon Bites
- Carefully place the breaded salmon bites into the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy bites.
- Fry each piece for 2–3 minutes per side or until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Utilize tongs or a slotted spoon to take out the salmon bites and place them on a plate covered with paper towels to absorb any extra oil.
Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
- Whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, and hot sauce (if desired) in a small bowl until smooth. This sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy salmon bites, adding a tangy, creamy contrast.
Serve and Enjoy
- Arrange the fried salmon bites on a platter and serve them warm with the dipping sauce on the side.
- For an extra pop of flavor and color, garnish with lemon wedges or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Tips for Perfect Fried Salmon Bites
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon delivers the best flavor and texture. When using frozen salmon, make sure it is fully thawed and dried off.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: A thermometer keeps the oil at a consistent 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
- Chill Before Frying: If your breading isn’t sticking well, refrigerate the breaded salmon for 10 minutes before frying to help it adhere.
- Use Cornmeal for Extra Crunch: Adding cornmeal to the breading creates a crispier, more textured coating.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Fry in small batches to ensure the salmon bites cook evenly and stay crispy.
How to Serve it
- With Coleslaw: Serve the salmon bites alongside tangy coleslaw for a balanced meal.
- Fish and Chips Style: Pair with crispy fries or roasted potatoes for a seafood twist on a classic dish.
- In Tacos: Add the salmon bites to tortillas with shredded lettuce, avocado slices, and a drizzle of the dipping sauce for delicious fish tacos.
- On a Salad: Top a fresh green salad with salmon bites for a healthy, protein-packed option.
How to Store it
Refrigerate:
- Keep leftover salmon bites in a sealed container in the refrigerator for a maximum of 2 days.
Reheat:
- To restore their crispiness, warm the salmon bites in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes.
Freeze:
- To freeze, place uncooked breaded salmon bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Place it in a freezer-safe bag and keep it for a maximum of 3 months. Fry or bake directly from frozen.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 400mg
Crispy, Juicy, and Easy to Make
These fried salmon bites are the ultimate combination of crispy coating and tender, flavorful salmon. Whether serving them as an appetizer, a main dish, or part of a seafood feast, they will impress family and friends. Try this recipe today and experiment with different dipping sauces and sides to make it your own. Happy cooking!
If you are a salmon lover you can make a Honey Teriyaki Salmon, or a Salmon Tempura Roll Recipe.
FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
Yes, ensure it’s completely thawed and patted dry before breading.
What Other Seasonings Can I Use?
Try Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, or lemon pepper for a unique flavor twist.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix or almond flour.
Can I Bake Instead of Fry?
Yes! Place breaded salmon bites on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What Other Dipping Sauces Work Well?
Tartar sauce, sriracha mayo, or yogurt-based dill sauce are excellent options.
Fried Salmon Bites
These crispy Fried Salmon Bites are golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, they’re quick to make and delicious served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
The Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb salmon fillet skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornmeal optional for extra crunch
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
The Optional Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce optional for heat
Instructions
Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat salmon pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Lightly season with salt and black pepper for enhanced flavor.
Set Up the Breading Station:
- In one bowl, combine flour, cornmeal (if using), paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
Bread the Salmon Bites:
- Dip each salmon piece into the flour mixture, coating thoroughly. Shake off any excess.
- Submerge the floured salmon into the beaten eggs, letting any extra egg drip off.
- Return the salmon to the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading sticks.
Heat the Oil:
- Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or skillet.
- Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Fry the Salmon Bites:
- Place breaded salmon bites into the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove using tongs or a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, and hot sauce (if desired) until smooth.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Arrange salmon bites on a platter and serve warm with the dipping sauce on the side.
- Garnish with lemon wedges or fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra touch.
Nutrition
Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSodium: 400mg
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