Crispy Salmon Patties

Crispy Salmon Patties are a quick and flavorful way to make the most of canned salmon. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into golden, crispy patties with a soft and savory center. Made with cornmeal, flour, and just the right amount of seasoning, these salmon patties are ideal for any meal—breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Perfectly portable and easy to reheat, they’re also an excellent choice for meal prep. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, a side salad, or even on a bun for a delightful salmon burger.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 2 cans of salmon (about 14-15 ounces each), drained and flaked
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 eggs
  • 6 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 6 tablespoons flour
  • 6 tablespoons cornmeal
  • Oil for frying (such as canola or vegetable oil)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

  1. Drain and Flake the Salmon: Open the cans of salmon, drain well, and flake the salmon into a large bowl. Check for and remove any large bones, if desired (many prefer to leave the soft bones for added calcium).
  2. Add Onion, Eggs, and Mayonnaise: Add the finely diced onion, eggs, and mayonnaise to the bowl with the salmon. Stir to combine until well-mixed.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

  1. Incorporate the Flour and Cornmeal: Add the flour and cornmeal to the salmon mixture. Stir until everything is fully combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
  2. Season with salt and pepper if desired, adjusting to taste.

Step 3: Form the Patties

  1. Shape the Salmon Mixture: Divide the mixture into even portions and shape each portion into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick. You should get around 8-10 patties depending on the size.
  2. Place the patties on a plate or baking sheet, ready for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Patties

  1. Heat Oil in a Skillet: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F. To test, drop a small bit of the mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
  2. Fry the Patties: Carefully add 3-4 patties at a time, depending on your skillet size. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and crispy.
  3. Remove and Drain: Using a slotted spoon or spatula, transfer the fried patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining patties.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve the crispy salmon patties warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions if desired. Pair with dipping sauces such as tartar sauce, remoulade, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Nutrition Facts (per patty)

(Approximate values based on 8 patties)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Protein: 11g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Sodium: 230mg

Note: Nutrition information may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?

  • Yes, you can use fresh salmon. Simply cook the salmon, flake it, and follow the same steps.

2. Can I make salmon patties gluten-free?

  • Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that the cornmeal you’re using is gluten-free.

3. Can I bake these salmon patties instead of frying?

  • Yes, to make them healthier, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

4. What dipping sauces pair well with salmon patties?

  • Tartar sauce, lemon aioli, or a simple yogurt-dill sauce make excellent accompaniments. You can also enjoy them with a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

5. How can I make these patties spicier?

  • Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.

Tips for Making the Perfect Salmon Patties

  1. Dry the Salmon Well: Ensure the salmon is well-drained to avoid a watery mixture.
  2. Use a Binder: Eggs and mayonnaise work as binders, so avoid skipping them. The flour and cornmeal also help hold everything together and add structure.
  3. Add Extra Seasoning: Canned salmon can be a bit mild, so feel free to add herbs, spices, or even chopped green onions for extra flavor.
  4. Adjust Cooking Time Based on Thickness: Thicker patties may need an extra minute or two on each side to ensure they’re cooked through.

Storage Tips

  1. Refrigeration: Store leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  2. Freezing: You can freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through.
  3. Reheating: For crispy results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot, or bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the patties soggy.

Conclusion

Crispy Salmon Patties are a versatile and delicious way to enjoy the benefits of salmon. Packed with protein, omega-3s, and essential nutrients, these patties make a fantastic main dish or snack. They’re easy to prepare, and with just a few pantry staples, you can whip them up quickly. Serve them with a fresh salad, rice, or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, these salmon patties are sure to become a staple.