SOUTHERN FRIED SALMON PATTIES

Introduction

Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. These crispy and flavorful patties are made with fresh salmon, mixed with a blend of herbs, spices, and other ingredients, then pan-fried to perfection. They are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making them a favorite among seafood lovers.

Ingredients

For the Salmon Patties:

• 1 pound fresh salmon fillets
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Remoulade Sauce (optional):

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped dill pickles
• 1 teaspoon capers, drained and chopped
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and season them with salt and pepper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Use a fork to flake the salmon into small pieces, discarding any skin or bones.

Step 2: Make the Salmon Patties Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped parsley, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, mayonnaise, and beaten egg. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, approximately 2-3 inches in diameter. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help them firm up.

Step 3: Fry the Salmon Patties

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the salmon patties to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Southern Fried Salmon Patties hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve them on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and the optional remoulade sauce for a delicious salmon burger.

Variations

While the classic Southern Fried Salmon Patties recipe is already delicious, you can try these variations to add your own twist:

1. Spicy Cajun:

Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the salmon patty mixture for a spicy kick. Serve with a creamy Cajun sauce.

2. Lemon Dill:

Add 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill to the salmon patty mixture for a refreshing flavor. Serve with a lemon-dill yogurt sauce.

3. Asian-inspired:

Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of chopped scallions, and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger to the salmon patty mixture for an Asian twist. Serve with a sesame soy dipping sauce.

Tips

• Make sure to remove any skin or bones from the cooked salmon before flaking it.
• Refrigerating the salmon patties before frying helps them hold their shape better.
• For extra crispiness, you can coat the patties in additional breadcrumbs before frying.
• Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet to prevent the patties from sticking.
• If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the salmon patties in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Conclusion

Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a classic Southern dish that delivers on flavor and versatility. Whether you enjoy them as a main course, a burger, or even as a brunch option, these patties are sure to please. With a crispy exterior and a moist, flavorful interior, they are a seafood lover’s dream. So, grab some fresh salmon and get ready to indulge in this Southern delicacy!

FAQs

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

Yes, you can use canned salmon as a substitute for fresh salmon. However, make sure to drain the canned salmon well before using it in the recipe.

2. Can I freeze the salmon patties?

Yes, you can freeze the salmon patties. After shaping the patties, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To cook frozen patties, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before frying or baking.

3. Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?

Yes, you can use other types of fish, such as trout or cod, as a substitute for salmon. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different fish may require different cooking times.

4. Is the remoulade sauce necessary?

No, the remoulade sauce is optional. The salmon patties are delicious on their own, but the tangy and creamy remoulade sauce adds an extra layer of flavor. Feel free to serve the patties with your favorite sauce or condiment.