Southern cuisine is known for its soul-warming flavors, and Southern Fried Salmon Patties are no exception. These crispy, golden-brown patties combine the delicate richness of salmon with the down-home comfort of Southern cooking. In this article, we’ll dive into the heart of Southern comfort food and uncover the secrets to creating these delectable salmon patties that are sure to transport your taste buds to a world of culinary delight.
Ingredients: The Harmony of Southern Flavors
For the Salmon Patties:
- 2 cans (14.75 ounces each) of pink salmon, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion, for a touch of sweetness and flavor
- 1/4 cup finely diced green bell pepper, for a hint of crunch and color
- 2 cloves garlic, minced, for aromatic depth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped, for brightness
- 1/2 cup cornmeal, for texture and Southern flair
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, for binding
- 2 large eggs, for structure and richness
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning, for a dash of Southern spice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Remoulade Sauce (Optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise, for creaminess
- 2 tablespoons Creole or Dijon mustard, for a zesty kick
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish, for tanginess
- 1 clove garlic, minced, for savory depth
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce, for a hint of heat
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, for a burst of freshness
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions: Crafting Your Southern Comfort
1. Prepare the Salmon Pattie Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked pink salmon, finely diced onion, finely diced green bell pepper, minced garlic, and fresh parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the salmon mixture, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined.
- Beat the eggs separately and fold them into the salmon mixture until the mixture holds together. If it feels too dry, you can add a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency.
2. Shape and Fry the Patties:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring there’s enough oil to submerge the patties halfway.
- Shape the salmon mixture into patties, typically about 3-4 inches in diameter and 1/2-inch thick.
- Carefully place the patties into the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown on each side, usually about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the patties and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
3. Prepare the Remoulade Sauce (Optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Creole or Dijon mustard, pickle relish, minced garlic, hot sauce, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- This zesty remoulade sauce is a delightful complement to your Southern Fried Salmon Patties.
4. Serve and Savor:
- Serve your Southern Fried Salmon Patties hot and crispy, either on their own or nestled between two slices of fresh bread with a dollop of remoulade sauce.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
Tips: Perfecting Your Southern Fried Salmon Patties
- Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your taste. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or smoked paprika for smoky depth.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that the Old Bay seasoning you use is gluten-free.
Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a culinary journey to the heart of Southern comfort, where every bite brings the warmth of tradition and the savoriness of the South. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner or shared with friends and family during gatherings, these crispy patties are an ode to the timeless appeal of Southern cuisine. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the flavors of the South, and savor the irresistible allure of Southern Fried Salmon Patties—a dish that combines the best of Southern tradition with a touch of homemade goodnes
