The crispy salmon belly is a Filipino favorite that hits all the right notes—crunchy, rich, flavorful, and perfectly indulgent. These tender salmon strips are lightly coated in a seasoned flour blend and fried to a golden crisp, making them ideal as an appetizer, bar chow, or even the star of your rice meal.
Paired with a zesty calamansi soy dipping sauce, this dish balances savory and tangy elements for a satisfying bite every time. Whether you’re new to salmon belly or a longtime fan, this quick recipe delivers comfort and indulgence in every crispy piece. Great for sharing, but honestly, you might want to keep the whole batch to yourself!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
-
500g salmon belly strips, cleaned and cut into 2-inch pieces
-
1/2 cup cornstarch
-
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
-
1 tsp salt
-
1/2 tsp black pepper
-
1/2 tsp garlic powder
-
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
-
Oil for deep frying
Dipping Sauce:
-
2 tbsp soy sauce
-
Juice of 3 calamansi (or substitute with lime or lemon)
-
1 clove garlic, minced
-
1 tsp sugar
-
1 chopped red chili (optional)
Directions:
-
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
-
Coat each piece of salmon belly in the dry mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks well.
-
Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
-
Once oil is hot (about 350°F or 175°C), fry salmon belly pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
-
Fry for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
-
In a small bowl, mix all dipping sauce ingredients. Adjust taste as needed.
-
Serve salmon belly hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 340 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Crispy Salmon Belly
Crispy salmon belly is a beloved dish in many Asian cuisines, particularly in the Philippines, where it is often served as a side dish, pulutan (bar food), or even as a main course paired with steamed white rice. The salmon belly, known for its rich fat content and silky texture, becomes irresistibly crispy and golden when fried, making it a mouthwatering treat that’s both indulgent and surprisingly simple to prepare. Its high oil content ensures that it crisps up beautifully without drying out, offering a perfect contrast between the crunchy exterior and melt-in-your-mouth interior.
In Filipino households, this dish is often enjoyed in informal gatherings, backyard barbecues, or late-night bonding sessions. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast from the table, often accompanied by a tangy, spicy dipping sauce made from soy sauce, calamansi (a native citrus fruit), and minced chili. While it’s incredibly easy to prepare, crispy salmon belly stands out for its intense flavor and textural experience that makes it a fan favorite for all ages.
Why Salmon Belly is a Star Ingredient
Salmon belly is considered a premium cut, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and packed with flavor. Unlike the leaner fillet portions, the belly has layers of fat that enhance the taste and texture of any dish it’s used in. When fried, this fat renders beautifully, giving the belly a light, crunchy texture on the outside while retaining a juicy, flavorful center.
This cut is often overlooked in Western cuisine, where lean cuts are usually preferred. But in Asian cuisine, especially Filipino cooking, nothing goes to waste. The belly, with its intense flavor and texture, is transformed into something that rivals even the most luxurious seafood dishes. It’s also far more affordable than prime fillets, offering both flavor and value.
Cultural Significance of Fried Fish Dishes in Filipino Cuisine
Fried fish dishes hold a special place in Filipino food culture. The technique of frying is one of the oldest and most popular cooking methods in the Philippines, especially for preparing fish caught fresh from the sea, rivers, or markets. It’s practical and quick, perfect for busy households where meals need to be hearty, affordable, and fast.
Crispy salmon belly is a contemporary take on this traditional method, incorporating a more luxurious fish into a beloved style of preparation. Filipinos love the crunch and savoriness of fried fish, especially when it’s paired with native dipping sauces like soy-calamansi or vinegar with garlic and chili. It evokes memories of seaside eateries, home-cooked family dinners, and simple comfort food that satisfies the soul.
Health Benefits of Salmon Belly
Despite being deep-fried, crispy salmon belly still offers a variety of nutritional benefits. Salmon belly is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for supporting heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. It’s also a good source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals like selenium and potassium.
The high fat content in salmon belly is primarily made up of healthy fats, which differ from the saturated fats found in processed fried foods. This means that even when fried, it can be part of a balanced diet if consumed in moderation. When paired with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables, it offers both indulgence and nutrition in a single meal.
Pairing Ideas and Serving Suggestions
Crispy salmon belly is versatile when it comes to serving options. Traditionally, it is paired with steamed white rice and a dipping sauce. The neutral taste of rice balances the bold, savory flavors of the salmon and helps soak up the tangy soy-calamansi sauce. For a more modern or fusion approach, it can be served over garlic fried rice with a fried egg (Filipino silog style), or tucked into a taco for a seafood twist.
Another popular option is to serve it as an appetizer alongside an array of dips—soy-based, vinegar-based, or even creamy aioli-style dips infused with wasabi or sriracha. Add a fresh cucumber salad or pickled vegetables on the side for a refreshing contrast. It can also be served in rice bowls, with sautéed greens and a drizzle of sauce, to turn it into a full meal.
For those who want to go the extra mile, serving crispy salmon belly on top of ramen or noodle soups can create an exciting textural contrast. It’s also an excellent addition to bento-style lunch boxes, giving both visual appeal and a hearty bite.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers—which is rare because of how delicious this dish is—you can store crispy salmon belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat while maintaining its crispiness, avoid the microwave. Instead, place the pieces in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. This method will help retain the crunch and flavor without drying it out.
Avoid storing the salmon belly with the dipping sauce, as this can make the coating soggy. Instead, store the sauce separately and only dip right before eating. If you’re planning ahead, you can also coat the salmon belly pieces in the flour mixture and refrigerate them uncooked. When you’re ready to eat, just fry them fresh for best results.
Tips for the Perfect Crispy Texture
Achieving the perfect crispiness comes down to a few key factors. First, make sure the salmon belly is well-dried before dredging it in the flour mixture. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Using a mix of cornstarch and flour provides a lighter, crunchier coating compared to flour alone.
Second, maintain the correct oil temperature. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through. If it’s too cool, the coating will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Aim for an oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) and don’t overcrowd the pan, which can lower the oil temperature rapidly.
Lastly, drain the fried pieces on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This allows air to circulate around the fish and prevents steam from softening the crispy crust.
A Versatile Dish for All Occasions
Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight dinner, entertaining guests, or looking for an indulgent snack, crispy salmon belly fits the bill. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and satisfies cravings for something both crunchy and savory. It also caters to a wide range of palates, from kids who love fried food to adults looking for a comfort dish with a gourmet touch.
Because of its flavor and simplicity, this dish can seamlessly fit into various food themes—from Asian-style meals to fusion street food. It’s equally suited to casual family dinners or more refined settings where small bites and tasting platters are served.
Conclusion
Crispy salmon belly is more than just a delicious fried dish—it’s a celebration of Filipino culinary resourcefulness, flavor-forward cooking, and love for bold textures. With its rich omega-3 profile, indulgent mouthfeel, and deep cultural roots, this recipe is a standout among seafood dishes. It transforms a humble cut of fish into something crave-worthy and shareable, making it perfect for both everyday meals and special gatherings.
Whether you’re a home cook looking to try something new, or a seasoned foodie exploring authentic Filipino flavors, crispy salmon belly is a must-try. It offers a perfect balance of texture, flavor, and tradition—proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes leave the most lasting impression.