Southern Fried Salmon Patties

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to enjoy salmon, these fried salmon patties are a perfect choice! Made with canned pink salmon and a few simple ingredients, these patties are crispy, flavorful, and packed with protein. This recipe is easy to follow and ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks. Let’s dive into the steps to make these mouthwatering fried salmon patties that are bound to become a family favorite.

Detailed Ingredients for Fried Salmon Patties

The main ingredients to prepare fried salmon patties :

• 1 (12 oz) can of pink salmon: Canned salmon is the base of these patties, providing a savory, slightly smoky flavor and tender texture. Pink salmon works well because it’s mild and tender, allowing other ingredients to shine while still delivering the rich taste of salmon. Draining the salmon removes excess liquid, and flaking it helps the salmon mix evenly with other ingredients.
• 2 whole eggs: Eggs serve as a binding agent, helping to hold the salmon patty mixture together and preventing it from falling apart while cooking. They also add moisture, enriching the flavor and giving the patties a soft, cohesive texture.
• 1/4 cup chopped onions: Onions add a mild sweetness and savory depth to the patties. They also provide a bit of crunch, enhancing the overall texture of each bite. Yellow or white onions work well, but green onions or shallots can also be used for a milder flavor.
• 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper: Bell peppers add color and a hint of natural sweetness. Red, green, or yellow bell peppers all work here, with red peppers being slightly sweeter and milder than green ones.
• 2 tablespoons yellow cornmeal: Cornmeal adds a subtle crunch to the exterior of the patties and helps absorb some of the moisture from the mixture. This helps the patties stay crispy when fried, providing a satisfying contrast to the soft salmon interior.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the overall flavor, bringing out the savory notes of the salmon and balancing the sweetness of the peppers and onions. You can adjust the salt to taste, but 1/2 teaspoon is a good starting point.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a mellow, earthy flavor that complements the salmon without overwhelming it. Using powder instead of fresh garlic ensures an even, mild garlic taste throughout the patties.
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds a rich creaminess, making the patties moist and tender. It also helps bind the ingredients together, adding a touch of tangy flavor to the mixture.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds a layer of umami flavor, enhancing the depth and complexity of the patties. This tangy, slightly sweet sauce pairs well with the salmon, adding a savory edge.
• 1 teaspoon Texas Pete hot sauce (or any preferred hot sauce): The hot sauce adds a subtle heat and tang, enhancing the flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients. Feel free to adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Black pepper adds a mild spiciness that complements the other flavors and enhances the taste of the salmon. Freshly ground pepper works best for a more vibrant flavor.
• 1 slice white bread, crumbled: Crumbled bread acts as a binder, absorbing moisture and helping the patties hold their shape. It also gives the patties a lighter, fluffier texture. You can use stale or fresh bread, but avoid heavily flavored breads as they can overpower the patties.
• 1/4 cup flour (add gradually as needed to adjust consistency): Flour helps absorb excess moisture and ensures that the patties hold together well when shaped. Add it gradually to achieve a consistency that allows the mixture to form firm, cohesive patties.
• Shortening or oil, for frying: Shortening or oil is used to fry the patties to a golden-brown finish. Shortening gives the patties a crispy exterior, while oil is more neutral in flavor. Use just enough to coat the skillet for even frying.

Directions for Fried Salmon Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Begin by opening the can of pink salmon and placing it in a colander to drain excess liquid. This step ensures the mixture won’t be overly moist. Once drained, transfer the salmon to a mixing bowl. Use a fork to flake the salmon, breaking it into smaller pieces. This will allow for better incorporation of all ingredients. You may choose to remove any larger bones, though these are edible and add extra calcium.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Add the eggs, chopped onions, chopped bell peppers, cornmeal, salt, garlic powder, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, black pepper, and crumbled bread to the bowl. Gently combine all ingredients using a spatula or spoon. Be careful not to overmix, as overworking the mixture can make the patties dense.

Step 3: Adjust Consistency

If the mixture seems too wet or loose, add the flour gradually, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a consistency where it holds together without crumbling. The mixture should be sticky enough to form a patty without falling apart but not too wet or soggy.

Step 4: Form the Patties

Divide the mixture into four equal portions. With your hands, shape each portion into a round, half-inch-thick patty. Set the patties on a plate or tray, ready to be fried.

Step 5: Heat the Skillet

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add enough shortening or oil to cover the bottom. Allow the oil to warm up until it begins to shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough for frying. Be careful not to let the oil smoke, as this can lead to overcooking the exterior of the patties while the inside remains undercooked.

Step 6: Fry the Salmon Patties

Carefully place the patties into the skillet once the oil is hot. Let each patty cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on the first side or until it’s golden brown and crispy. Flip the patties gently using a spatula to prevent breaking, and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, achieving an even, crispy texture.

Step 7: Drain and Serve fried Salmon Patties

After frying, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve the salmon patties warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a wedge of lemon if desired.

These salmon patties are delicious on their own or with a dipping sauce such as tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or spicy remoulade. Enjoy as a main dish, or serve with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Serving Suggestions for Fried Salmon Patties

These crispy, golden fried salmon patties are a versatile main dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving ideas to help you create a well-rounded and flavorful meal:

1. With Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a fantastic complement to fried salmon patties. The cool, crunchy texture and slightly tangy flavor of coleslaw balances the warm, crispy patties perfectly. You can make a traditional coleslaw with cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing, or try a vinegar-based slaw for a lighter, tangier twist. For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of fresh dill, parsley, or a hint of lemon zest.

2. Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort-food pairing for fried salmon patties. The smooth, buttery texture and mild flavor of the potatoes create a satisfying contrast with the crispy, savory patties. Try adding a touch of garlic or chives to the potatoes to bring out the flavors in the salmon. For an extra twist, you could make mashed sweet potatoes for a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory salmon.

3. Green Salad

For a lighter option, serve your fried salmon patties alongside a fresh green salad. A simple salad of mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette keeps the meal light and refreshing, while the acidity from the dressing enhances the flavors in the patties. Adding a few slices of avocado, some shaved radishes, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese can add extra layers of texture and flavor.

4. Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf, with its soft texture and mild, herbed flavor, makes an excellent pairing with fried salmon patties. Fluffy and aromatic, it adds substance to the meal without overpowering the patties. You can prepare a basic rice pilaf or add in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or peas for added color and nutrition.

5. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables bring a healthy and hearty element to the plate. Root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips develop a natural sweetness when roasted, which complements the savory taste of the salmon. Roasting broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil and seasoning adds a delicious crunch to the meal.

6. Tartar Sauce or Dipping Sauce

A flavorful dipping sauce is always a good idea for fried salmon patties. Tartar sauce, with its creamy, tangy flavor, is a classic choice. You can also serve with a lemon-dill aioli, a garlic yogurt sauce, or a spicy remoulade for added zing. These sauces enhance the salmon’s flavor and add extra moisture and creaminess.

7. Dinner Rolls or Bread

Soft dinner rolls or a slice of crusty bread make great additions to round out the meal. You can use them to soak up any remaining sauce or simply enjoy alongside the patties. For a Southern-inspired twist, serve with warm, buttery cornbread on the side.

8. Pickled Vegetables

For a unique and flavorful side, try serving fried salmon patties with pickled vegetables like cucumbers, radishes, or beets. The acidity and crunch of pickled vegetables add a refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness of the patties and brings a pop of flavor to each bite.

9. Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy, oven-baked sweet potato fries bring a slightly sweet contrast to the fried salmon patties. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs well with the savory, spicy elements of the patties, and their crispy texture complements the golden crust of the salmon. Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or sea salt for an extra kick.

10. Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans

For a simple, nutritious side, serve your fried salmon patties with steamed asparagus or green beans. These vegetables are light, fresh, and pair beautifully with seafood. Drizzle a little olive oil and lemon juice over them, or sprinkle with a dash of sea salt for added flavor.

Recipe Notes for fried Salmon Patties

• Lighter Version: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the salmon patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
• Storage: Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to maintain their crispiness.

These fried salmon patties are easy to make and customizable with various seasonings or sauces. Try this recipe for a delicious and nutritious meal that’s sure to satisfy!

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