My Southern recipe for Salmon croquettes (Salmon patties or Salmon cakes), is one of my comfort food favorites. What I love about salmon patties is that I can eat for any meal. I love it with my grits for breakfast or with warm rice and veggie for a light dinner experience. It is such a versatile meal that makes it perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Salmon Patties are super easy to make with very simple ingredients that you already have in your fridge and pantry. For this recipe I use canned Pink Salmon but if you prefer fresh Salmon it can always be used as well. Go with me as I share with you my easy take on this Southern classic meal that I hope will become one of your favorite recipes too.
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How to Make Southern Salmon Croquettes
This tasty recipe is so easy to make. To make the best Salmon Patties it only take a few simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have. Canned Pink Salmon is my go to for making this dish but some may opt to use fresh salmon which is perfectly ok. Of course the instructions will be slightly different when using fresh salmon as you will be starting with raw instead of pre-cooked salmon. To make this delicious meal using canned salmon:
- Gather all of your ingredients before starting
- Drain the liquid from the salmon can and remove all the bones from the salmon
- Season the salmon with your choice of seasonings. For my recipe I chose onion powder, garlic powder, salt and black pepper.
- Add the celery and onions, flour and egg then mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated
- Form your patties into circles that fit in the palm of your hand
- Heat the oil in the skillet then fry your patties until they are golden brown
1. Watch Video ( How to Make Salmon Patties Tutorial)
2. Ingredients in Salmon Croquettes
- Pink Salmon – This is the star ingredient and provides the base for your salmon patties. Canned salmon is convenient and readily available. Feel free to use fresh salmon when available.
- All-Purpose Flour – The flour helps hold the patty mixture together, giving it structure so it doesn’t crumble when cooked.
- Celery and Onion – These classic aromatic vegetables add flavor complexity as well as a bit of textural interest to the patties.
- Egg – The egg acts as a binder, similar to the flour, ensuring the patties hold their shape. It also adds richness and contributes to a moist patty.
- Onion Powder and Garlic Powder – These powders are an easy way to infuse savory garlic and onion notes into the salmon patties. They complement the flavors of the fresh onion and celery as well.
- Black Pepper and Salt – These two staples provide the basic seasoning that enhances all the other flavors in the salmon patty.
- Canola Oil – Canola oil is used to fry the patties. It has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking at medium heat.
What You Will Need
3. Instructions for Preparation
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Make sure to carefully removing all the bones from the canned salmon. Once bone-free, place the salmon in a large mixing bowl.
Next sprinkle the salmon with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. These seasonings will add depth and flavor to your patties.
Incorporate the finely chopped celery and onion into the bowl with the seasoned salmon. These veggies not only enhance the taste but also contribute a delightful crunch to the patties.Add the all-purpose flour and crack in the egg.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Gently mix the ingredients until well combined. This mixture will serve as the base for your salmon patties.
Step 3: Form the Salmon Patties
Shape the mixture into patties of your desired size. Ensure they hold their shape well, as they’ll be cooked in the skillet.
Step 4: Cooking the Salmon Patties
Place a skillet over medium-low heat and add a moderate amount of canola oil and heat oil.
Carefully place the formed salmon patties into the skillet. Let them cook for approximately 4 minutes on each side. This duration allows the patties to develop a golden-brown crust while cooking through.
After 4 minutes, gently flip the patties to cook the other side for an additional 4 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a delightful texture.
Once both sides are beautifully cooked and golden, remove the patties from the skillet. Place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This step helps in reducing the oil content and makes the patties lighter.
4. What to eat with Salmon Croquettes
Salmon can be served for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They pair well with grits, rice, mashed potatoes, cabbage, asparagus or greens. You can pair them with a side of fresh salad, a zesty remoulade sauce, or enjoy them between buns for a salmon burger experience. Salmon patties are a delicious, inexpensive meal that can be easily made any day of the week.
5. Storing Salmon Patties
For leftover salmon patties, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 day in the refrigerator. To reheat them simply place them in an air fryer. If you don’t have an air fryer they can be reheat stovetop.
Salmon Patties are great for freezing, both uncooked and cooked. When meal prepping you can make a large batch and freeze them for a quick meal anytime. The freezer preserves the patties freshness.
How To Freeze Salmon Patties
- Uncooked:
- Shape the patties.
- Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Cooked:
- Cook the patties as normal.
- Let them cool completely.
- Follow the same process as for uncooked patties – freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag or container.
Thawing and Reheating:
- Thaw: Place the frozen patties in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat Uncooked: Cook as usual in a pan with oil.
- Reheat Cooked: Warm through in a pan on low-medium heat, bake in the oven until heated through or you may use an air fryer.
Freezing Tips:
- Separate layers: If stacking patties, place parchment or wax paper between them to prevent sticking.
- Label: Label with the date and whether they are cooked or uncooked.
- Shelf life: Frozen salmon patties will keep for 3-4 months for best quality.
Salmon patties are a great weeknight dinner idea. It is easy to prepare and you will have dinner on the table in no time. They are a fantastic way to elevate your dining experience. The combination of flaky salmon, aromatic vegetables, and flavorful seasonings all come together to create a dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying to enjoy.I hope you give this easy recipe a try.