There’s something special about Southern Fried Salmon Patties that brings back memories of family gatherings and warm kitchen aromas. These delightful patties are not just a meal; they’re a quick solution for busy weeknights or a dish to impress your loved ones during a weekend get-together. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your home, making dinner feel like a cozy hug after a long day.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Fried Salmon Patties
Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a game-changer in the kitchen. They come together in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic evenings. The taste? Absolutely irresistible! Each bite is a delightful blend of savory salmon and spices, with a satisfying crunch. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a snack. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how quickly they disappear from the table!
Ingredients Southern Fried Salmon Patties
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering Southern Fried Salmon Patties. Here’s what you’ll need:
Pink Salmon: The star of the show! Canned pink salmon is convenient and packed with flavor. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy choice.
Breadcrumbs: These add texture and help bind the patties. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra flavor boost.
Onion: Finely chopped onion brings a sweet and savory depth to the patties. It’s a classic ingredient that enhances the overall taste.
Bell Pepper: Any color works! Chopped bell pepper adds a pop of color and a slight crunch, making each bite more enjoyable.
Mayonnaise: This creamy ingredient helps keep the patties moist and adds richness. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Egg: A binding agent that helps hold everything together. It also adds a bit of protein to the mix.
Dijon Mustard: Just a teaspoon adds a tangy kick that elevates the flavor profile of the patties.
Worcestershire Sauce: This savory sauce brings umami and depth, making the patties even more delicious.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Black Pepper and Salt: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Vegetable Oil: For frying, it creates that golden, crispy exterior we all love. You can use olive oil or canola oil as alternatives.
Lemon Wedges: A fresh squeeze of lemon juice right before eating brightens the flavors and adds a zesty finish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Southern Fried Salmon Patties
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the flaked pink salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, and bell pepper. Add the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Now, it’s time to mix! Use a fork or your hands to blend everything until well combined. The mixture should be moist but hold together. If it feels too dry, a splash of water or an extra dollop of mayo can help. This is where the magic begins, so make sure it’s mixed just right!
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape it into patties. Take a handful of the mixture and form it into a patty about 2-3 inches in diameter. Aim for uniformity in size so they cook evenly. You should end up with around eight patties. If you find the mixture sticking to your hands, a little oil can help. Place the shaped patties on a plate, ready for frying. This step is crucial for that perfect texture!
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Now, let’s get that skillet sizzling! Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet, about a quarter-inch deep. Heat it over medium heat until it shimmers. You can test if it’s ready by dropping a small piece of the mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good to go. This step is essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior we all crave. Patience is key here—don’t rush it!
Step 4: Fry the Patties
Carefully add the salmon patties to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to turn a beautiful golden brown and be crispy. Use a spatula to gently flip them, ensuring they don’t break apart. Once they’re cooked through, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. The aroma will be irresistible, and your kitchen will feel like a Southern diner!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
It’s time to dig in! Serve the warm salmon patties with fresh lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the richness of the patties. Enjoy them as is, or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite!
Tips for Success
Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties to avoid sogginess.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches for even cooking.
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the mixture.
Let the patties rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Experiment with different dipping sauces for a fun twist!
Equipment Needed
Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients. A sturdy glass or plastic bowl works well.
Skillet: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet is ideal for frying. If you don’t have one, a frying pan will do.
Spatula: Use a flat spatula for flipping the patties without breaking them.
Paper Towels: Great for draining excess oil after frying.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy twist.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or chives for a burst of flavor.
Cheesy Delight: Incorporate shredded cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a creamy texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes to make these patties suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Vegetable Boost: Add finely grated zucchini or carrots to the mixture for extra nutrition and moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the salmon patties with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with homemade tartar sauce or a zesty remoulade for dipping.
Complement with sweet potato fries or coleslaw for a Southern twist.
Enjoy with a cold beer or iced tea to wash it down.
FAQs about Southern Fried Salmon Patties
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned? Absolutely! Fresh salmon can be used, but make sure to cook it first and flake it before mixing. This will give you a fresher taste and texture.
How do I store leftover salmon patties? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet for the best texture.
Can I freeze the patties? Yes, you can freeze uncooked patties! Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the frying time.
What can I serve with Southern Fried Salmon Patties? These patties pair wonderfully with a side of coleslaw, a fresh salad, or even on a bun as a salmon burger. Don’t forget the lemon wedges!
Are Southern Fried Salmon Patties gluten-free? They can be! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes in the recipe. This way, everyone can enjoy them!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Southern Fried Salmon Patties is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with those you love. The crispy exterior and tender inside make each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re serving them for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these patties are sure to impress. Plus, the versatility of this dish means you can customize it to suit your taste. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of these delicious patties fill your kitchen. You won’t regret it!
Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines flaked salmon with breadcrumbs and spices, fried to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
1 can (14.75 ounces) pink salmon, drained and flaked
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper (any color)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 large egg
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Shape the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. You should get around 8 patties.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon patties to the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve the salmon patties warm with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
For added flavor, mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill into the salmon mixture.
Serve the patties on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce for a delicious salmon burger variation.
