Panko Sesame Crusted Salmon Bites Recipe

Previous Next

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound skinless, center-cut salmon fillet (about 1 inch thick), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/2 cup Kewpie mayonnaise, divided
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce, divided
• 1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice, divided, plus wedges for garnish
• 1/2 cup panko (Japanese-style breadcrumbs)
• 1/2 cup toasted sesame seeds
• Cooking spray
• 2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey

Directions

1. Begin by gathering all the ingredients.
2. Evenly sprinkle the salmon with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the granulated garlic, 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1 1/2 teaspoons of sesame oil, 1 1/2 teaspoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of lime juice, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
4. Place the salmon pieces into the mayonnaise mixture and gently toss to coat evenly.
5. In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil.
6. Working in batches of four, dredge each piece of salmon in the panko mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks. Transfer the coated salmon pieces onto a large plate or baking sheet.
7. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange half of the salmon pieces in the basket, ensuring they are spaced at least 1 inch apart.
8. Cook the salmon at 400F (200C) for approximately 5 minutes, or until golden brown. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 125F (52C) when inserted into the thickest part of the salmon.
9. Transfer the cooked salmon to a plate, and repeat with the remaining salmon.
10. While the salmon is cooking, prepare the chili garlic sauce mixture. In a small bowl, stir together the chili garlic sauce, honey, the remaining 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1 1/2 teaspoons of soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of lime juice.
11. Drizzle the chili garlic sauce over the cooked salmon and serve with lime wedges for garnish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 607
• Total Fat: 46g (60% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (38% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 83mg (28% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 925mg (40% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 17g (6% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (11% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 30g (61% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 7mg (7% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 206mg (16% Daily Value)
• Iron: 4mg (20% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 580mg (12% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The History and Origins of Panko Sesame Crusted Salmon Bites

Panko sesame crusted salmon bites are a modern fusion dish inspired by traditional Japanese and Western cooking techniques. The use of panko breadcrumbs traces back to Japan, where these light, flaky breadcrumbs were originally developed during the post-World War II era to provide a crisp texture for fried foods. Salmon, a staple of northern Japanese cuisine, has been paired with sesame seeds and soy-based seasonings for centuries. The contemporary bite-sized version emerged as chefs began adapting Japanese flavors into easy-to-serve appetizers suitable for casual dining and party menus worldwide.

Regional Variations and Unique Twists

Regional adaptations of this dish reflect local tastes and ingredient availability. In North America, the salmon is often air-fried or oven-baked rather than deep-fried, creating a healthier, less oily version. In coastal regions of Japan, chefs may use fresh wild salmon and drizzle it with a delicate ponzu or miso-based sauce. Western fusion styles frequently incorporate chili-garlic sauce, honey, or lime juice, balancing sweetness, heat, and acidity for a more globally appealing flavor profile.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

While similar dishes exist, such as traditional Japanese ebi fry (fried shrimp) or salmon katsu, panko sesame crusted salmon bites stand out due to the combination of sesame seeds with panko for a dual-layered crunch. Unlike typical salmon fillets served as main courses, these bites are smaller, perfectly portioned for appetizers, making them ideal for social gatherings. The sweet-savory dipping sauce, often including Kewpie mayonnaise and soy, further distinguishes it from plain fried salmon or tempura.

Where It Is Commonly Served

This dish is frequently found in upscale appetizer menus, Japanese-fusion restaurants, and catered events. Its bite-sized format makes it popular for cocktail parties, holiday buffets, and tapas-style dinners. Additionally, air-fried versions have made the recipe accessible for home cooks seeking a quick yet impressive appetizer without the need for extensive frying equipment.

Interesting Facts

• The word panko comes from the Japanese pan, meaning bread, and ko, meaning flour or powder.
• Sesame seeds are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, adding both flavor and nutritional value to the dish.
• Bite-sized salmon dishes like this are part of a growing trend toward finger foods that combine gourmet flavors with convenient presentation.
• Air-frying retains the crunch of panko without the extra calories of deep-frying, making it a popular choice for health-conscious diners.
• The combination of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors mirrors the traditional Japanese approach of balancing taste profiles in a single dish.

Whether served at a modern dinner party or enjoyed at home, panko sesame crusted salmon bites offer a perfect harmony of texture, flavor, and visual appeal, representing a true cross-cultural culinary innovation.

FAQ about Panko Sesame Crusted Salmon Bites Recipe