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I whipped up these honey garlic salmon chunks when my little ones were stuck in their 'fish is gross' stage. Cutting salmon into tiny bites and slathering them with that sweet clingy glaze totally did the trick! They can't get enough of them now. My hubby even shows off to his work buddies about how I turned our kids into salmon fans. And they're so quick to make - just what I need when I've completely forgotten about dinner!
What Makes These Bites Special
These tasty morsels win hearts because they're crunchy outside but remain tender inside. The glaze turns all sticky and brown - my kids grab them with toothpicks! They finish cooking in no time since they're cut small, and washing up isn't a hassle. Even my buddy who 'can't stand fish' went back for seconds and thirds when she joined us for a meal.
Your Ingredient List
- Salmon: Grab a good pound chunk and slice it into small bite-sized pieces
- Seasonings: Salt pepper garlic powder onion powder and paprika
- Oil: Plain olive oil does the job perfectly
- The Secret Weapons: Raw garlic and ginger truly boost the flavor
- For The Glaze: Honey soy sauce and rice vinegar
- Finishing Touches: Green chives and sesame seeds to scatter on top
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Cooking Steps
- Prep Your Ingredients
- Start by thoroughly drying your salmon with paper towels. Then slice it into chunks about one big bite size. Mix them with your seasonings and a bit of oil.
- Get That Crunch
- Heat your pan until it's really hot then add some oil and drop in those salmon chunks. Don't stuff too many in or they won't crisp up! Cook until golden all around which takes roughly 5 minutes. Move them to a plate.
- Create The Magic Glaze
- Using that same pan toss in ginger and garlic until they smell amazing. Then pour in your honey vinegar and soy sauce. Let it simmer down until it's thick and gooey.
- Mix Everything
- Toss your salmon back into the pan and roll them around in that glaze. Watch them turn all shiny and delicious!
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Helpful Cooking Tips
Always make sure your salmon pieces are super dry before cooking or they won't crisp up nicely. Try not to shift them around too much in the pan just let them cook. If your glaze gets too sticky just add a tiny bit of water. And always turn your pan handle inward I found that out when my sleeve caught it once!
Easy Variations
I sometimes throw in some broccoli florets at the end to soak up that glaze. My pal uses chicken chunks when salmon costs too much. In hot weather I squeeze some fresh lime juice on top so refreshing! You can kick up the heat with a dash of sriracha my older kids go crazy for that version.
Storing Leftovers
They taste best right away but if you have extras they'll stay good in your fridge for a couple days. Warm them up in a skillet not your microwave or they'll turn rubbery. Though truthfully at my place leftovers hardly ever happen as everyone usually wants more!
Side Dish Ideas
We really enjoy these over a bed of rice that drinks up all that tasty glaze. Sometimes I throw together some steamed vegetables or a quick side salad. My girl likes to wrap them in lettuce cups like mini tacos. And always keep extra glaze handy my man constantly asks for more to pour over!
Ready For Any Occasion
This meal has come to my rescue countless times! It's fast enough for crazy weeknights yet looks impressive enough for guests. When my mother visited last she couldn't believe how quickly it all came together. She now cooks it for her card game friends and says they all want the recipe!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why dry the salmon pieces first?
Wiping salmon dry gets rid of extra moisture, which helps it brown beautifully instead of steaming.
- → Can I prepare this earlier?
It's best fresh. You can make the sauce ahead and prep the salmon with spices, then cook right before eating.
- → Which pan works best here?
Opt for a sturdy skillet or cast iron pan. It heats evenly and helps get the salmon crispy without sticking.
- → Why fry the salmon in smaller batches?
If the pan is too full, the pieces steam rather than crisp. Fry smaller amounts to cook them better and evenly.
- → Is this doable in the air fryer?
Yep! Cook at 390°F for around 7-9 minutes, flipping midway. Make the glaze separately and mix with the cooked salmon.