A popular classic that has been served on dinner tables for many years are salmon patties. In addition to being tasty, these patties are extremely simple to prepare with basic cupboard goods, thanks to their crispy outside and savory, tender inside. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish with a nostalgic touch, old-fashioned salmon patties are sure to satisfy.
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| Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties |
With advice on how to consistently achieve the ideal texture and flavor, we'll walk you through a classic salmon patty recipe in this blog post. Let’s dive into this time-tested recipe that you can whip up in no time.
Why You'll Love These Salmon Patties
Old-fashioned salmon patties are a fantastic option for both lunch and dinner. They’re budget-friendly, made with canned or fresh salmon, and packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making them a healthy, satisfying meal. The crispy golden-brown crust paired with the soft, inflakyside is what makes these patties irresistible.
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties
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- 1 can (14.5 oz) of drained and flaked salmon (or around two cups of raw salmon that has been cooked and flakes)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers for a more classic feel)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or sour cream for moisture
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or butter) for frying
Instructions: How to Make Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties
1. Prepare the Salmon Mixture
Start by draining the canned salmon and removing any skin or bones (if desired). In a large mixing bowl, flake the salmon using a fork. Add in the chopped onion, green bell pepper (if using), breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, parsley, and seasonings. Stir in the beaten egg until everything is well combined.
2. Shape the Patties
Using your hands, form the mixture into patties. Depending on the size of the patties, this recipe should yield roughly 6-8. If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if it’s too dry, add a bit more mayonnaise or a splash of milk.
3. Heat the Oil
Heat the butter or vegetable oil in a big skillet over medium heat. For the patties to have a great, crispy finish, you'll need just enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet.4. Cook the Salmon Patties
Put the salmon patties in the skillet with the heated oil. Cook until golden brown and crispy on the outside, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Flipping should be done gently to prevent shattering the patties. Cook in batches if necessary to prevent packing the pan too full.5. Serve and Enjoy
To absorb any extra oil, move the cooked patties to a plate covered with paper towels. Serve them warm with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or your favorite side dish like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
Tips for Perfect Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties
- Use Canned or Fresh Salmon: While canned salmon is a more handy and cost-effective choice, it also works nicely for this dish if you have fresh salmon on hand.
- Carefully add the binding ingredients: Breadcrumbs and eggs are necessary to keep the patties together. If the mixture feels too dry or too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
- Avoid packing the pan too full: The patties will cook more uniformly and develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust if you fry them in batches.
- Try Variations: Add some grated Parmesan for extra richness or a dash of Old Bay seasoning for a zesty twist. For extra freshness, you can also add finely chopped herbs, such as dill.
Serving Suggestions for Salmon Patties
- Tartar Sauce: A classic choice, tartar sauce complements the savory flavor of salmon patties beautifully. Make your own by combining lemon juice, pickles, mayonnaise, and a little mustard.
- Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting meal, serve these patties with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of sautéed greens or peas.
- Salad: For a lighter option, serve the salmon patties with a simple cucumber and tomato salad or a fresh garden salad for a cool contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make salmon patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salmon mixture and form the patties up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them.
What type of salmon should I use?
This recipe works well with either canned pink or red salmon. Make careful to drain the salmon and, if you'd like, remove any large bones. You can also use leftover cooked salmon.
Is it possible to bake the salmon patties rather than fry them?
Yes! To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
Conclusion
Traditional salmon patties provide warmth and nourishment in a familiar, simple-to-make recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s flavorful, crispy, and satisfying for any occasion. Whether served as part of a weeknight dinner or as a special treat, these salmon patties are sure to become a family favorite.
Try this traditional recipe and allow the golden, crispy perfection of salmon patties to add a bit of classic comfort to your table!