Southern Salmon Patties Recipe

These classic Southern Salmon Patties are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor. They’re easy to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (14.75 oz) of pink or red salmon (drained and flaked)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably plain or seasoned)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (yellow or green onion)
• 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional but recommended)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or as needed for frying)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salmon: Open the can of salmon and drain the liquid. Remove any skin and bones (if desired) and then flake the salmon with a fork in a large bowl.
2. Mix the Ingredients: Add the egg, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper (if using), mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the salmon. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to form patties. If it’s too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
3. Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into small patties, about 3 to 4 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. You should be able to make about 6-8 patties, depending on the size.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. You’ll need enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
5. Fry the Patties: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet. Fry them in batches if necessary, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip them gently with a spatula to avoid breaking.
6. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce or hot sauce.

Tips:

• For extra crunch, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed saltine crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
• If the patties seem too soft to hold together, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs or even a tablespoon of flour to firm them up.
• Serve with sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or a simple green salad for a Southern-inspired meal.

History of Southern Salmon Patties:

Salmon patties, also known as croquettes, have a long-standing tradition in Southern cuisine, where they were often made from leftover fish or canned salmon. This dish became especially popular during the Great Depression due to its affordability and versatility. It remains a beloved comfort food in many Southern households, often served with sides like greens, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Benefits of Southern Salmon Patties:

Salmon is a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins, making these patties not only delicious but also nutritious. The addition of onions and peppers provides extra vitamins and minerals, while the light frying method keeps them crisp without being overly greasy.

Nutrition Information:

• Calories (per patty): ~150-200 kcal (varies based on size)
• Protein: 10-12g
• Fat: 8-10g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Fiber: 1-2g

Conclusion:

Southern Salmon Patties are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and a taste of the South to any meal. With their crispy texture and tender interior, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve them with a side of cornbread, coleslaw, or a salad, these patties are both satisfying and nutritious. They also make an excellent option for meal prepping or as part of a Southern-themed dinner.

For the Lovers of Comfort Food:

For those who adore classic Southern comfort food, these salmon patties offer a perfect balance of taste and nostalgia. It’s a dish that transports you to warm kitchens and family gatherings, making it a timeless favorite in Southern households. Serve it up with love and enjoy every crispy, savory bite!