Spicy Salmon Crispy Rice Bites
Spicy Salmon Crispy Rice Bites combine tender, sashimi-grade salmon mixed with creamy, spicy mayo atop perfectly crispy, golden sushi rice. This appetizer balances bold, spicy flavors with a satisfyingly crunchy texture, making it ideal for parties or a unique snack. Easily customizable for heat levels and variations, it’s quick to prepare and visually stunning—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Rice Base
- 1 cup sushi rice (short-grain rice)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Pinch of salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Spicy Salmon Topping
- 6 ounces sashimi-grade fresh salmon, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1–2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Garnishes (optional)
- Extra chopped green onions
- Extra toasted sesame seeds
- Dollops of wasabi or pickled ginger
- Prepare the Sushi Rice: Cook the sushi rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly, then season lightly with rice vinegar and a pinch of salt. This enhances the flavor and helps the rice stick together.
- Form and Fry the Rice Bites: Shape the slightly cooled rice into small, compact rectangles or rounds about two inches wide. Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Fry the rice bites in batches, turning occasionally, until the outside is golden brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Prepare the Spicy Salmon Topping: In a bowl, combine finely diced sashimi-grade salmon with mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, chopped green onions, and toasted sesame seeds. Mix gently until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Assemble the Bites: Once the fried rice bites have cooled enough to handle, generously top each piece with the spicy salmon mixture. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- Use cold, chilled rice for better shape retention and crispiness when frying.
- Fry rice bites in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and maintain consistent oil temperature.
- Always select fresh, sashimi-grade salmon to ensure safety and optimal flavor.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the spicy mayo mixture gradually to control the heat level.
- Blot excess oil from fried rice bites with paper towels to keep them light and crunchy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pieces
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: spicy salmon, crispy rice, sushi appetizer, spicy mayo, sashimi, sushi rice, party appetizer, gluten free appetizer