Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a beloved dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. These crispy golden patties, packed with the rich flavor of canned salmon, are a perfect blend of crunchy exterior and tender, flavorful interior. Served with a variety of sides, these salmon patties are easy to make and a great way to incorporate seafood into your meal routine without the hassle. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they bring the best of Southern cooking straight to your table.
Ingredients
To make Southern Fried Salmon Patties, you’ll need 1 (14.75 oz) can of pink salmon, drained and flaked, 1/2 cup finely chopped onion, 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper (optional), 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers, 1 large egg (beaten), 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying.
Instructions
Start by preparing the salmon mixture. In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, finely chopped onion, green bell pepper (if using), breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers, beaten egg, mayonnaise, lemon juice, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined, ensuring the mixture holds together.
Next, shape the mixture into patties. Use your hands to form the salmon mixture into 6 to 8 patties, each about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. You can make the patties smaller or larger depending on your preference, but this size ensures even cooking and a nice balance of crispy edges.
Once the patties are shaped, it’s time to heat the oil. Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking when you add the patties. You can test the temperature by dropping a small piece of the mixture into the skillet – if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Carefully place the patties into the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the patties for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be cautious when flipping the patties to ensure they stay intact. Use a spatula to gently lift and flip the patties.
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil, ensuring they remain crispy.
Finally, serve the Southern Fried Salmon Patties warm with your favorite sides. These patties are incredibly versatile, so you can serve them with anything from coleslaw and cornbread to mashed potatoes or a simple salad.
Tips for the Best Southern Fried Salmon Patties
For the crispiest texture, make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying. If the oil is too hot, the patties will burn on the outside before cooking through, and if it’s too cool, the patties will absorb more oil, making them greasy.
If you’re not a fan of green bell peppers, feel free to skip them or substitute with another vegetable such as finely chopped celery or grated zucchini for extra moisture and flavor.
For added flavor, you can also experiment with spices and herbs. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or a bit of fresh parsley or dill for a fragrant, herby twist.
If you prefer a lighter option, you can bake the patties instead of frying them. To do this, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Southern Fried Salmon Patties are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. For a true Southern meal, serve them with a side of coleslaw for crunch and freshness. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread also make excellent accompaniments, adding to the richness of the patties.
If you want a lighter meal, consider serving these patties with a refreshing cucumber salad or a simple leafy green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
For dipping, a remoulade sauce or tartar sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy patties, offering a creamy and tangy contrast to the savory flavor of the salmon.
Storage and Reheating
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. These salmon patties can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over low heat to maintain their crispy texture.
FAQ
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh or frozen salmon for this recipe. Just make sure to cook and flake the salmon before mixing it into the patty mixture. Canned salmon is often used for convenience, but fresh salmon will work just as well.
Can I make these patties in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. This can actually help the patties hold together better when frying. Just make sure to cook them within a day or two for the best flavor and texture.
Can I add vegetables to the patties?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with the vegetables. Finely diced carrots, celery, or even spinach can be added to the mixture for additional flavor and nutrition.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This recipe is highly adaptable to different dietary needs.
Conclusion
Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that captures the essence of Southern comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal, a weeknight dinner, or even a gathering, these patties will always be a hit. With a crispy, golden exterior and a tender, flavorful interior, they’re a delicious way to enjoy the versatility of canned salmon. Pair them with your favorite sides and sauces, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and experience the comforting, homey goodness of Southern Fried Salmon Patties for yourself
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Southern Fried Salmon Patties
Description
Crispy, flavorful salmon patties that are golden on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
• 1 (14.75 oz) can pink salmon (drained and flaked)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
1️⃣ In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, chopped onion, bell pepper (if using), breadcrumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, lemon juice, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2️⃣ Shape the mixture into 6 to 8 patties, about 2 to 3 inches in diameter.
3️⃣ Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4️⃣ Fry the patties for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
5️⃣ Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6️⃣ Serve warm with your favorite sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or remoulade sauce.