Southern Salmon Patties
Southern Salmon Patties are a classic comfort food, combining flaked canned salmon with simple ingredients to create crispy, flavorful patties. These are a popular dish in Southern kitchens, often served with sides like collard greens, mashed potatoes, or cornbread. They’re quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as an appetizer, these golden, crispy patties are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
- 2 (14.75 oz) cans pink salmon, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or seasoning salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or more for frying)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
- Open the cans of salmon and drain them well. Remove any bones or skin if preferred (though many people leave them in for added flavor and nutrients).
- Flake the salmon using a fork into bite-sized pieces.
2. Make the Patties Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, onion, cornmeal, flour, and seasonings (Old Bay, black pepper, garlic powder). Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Add the beaten eggs and milk to the mixture, and stir again until everything is well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to form into patties. If it seems too wet, add a little more cornmeal or flour until it holds together.
3. Shape the Patties:
- Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into small patties, about the size of a golf ball, and then flatten them slightly into round cakes.
- You should get around 8-10 patties, depending on the size you make them.
4. Fry the Patties:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll need enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Once the oil is hot, add the salmon patties, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You may need to adjust the heat to prevent burning.
- Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve:
- Serve the salmon patties hot with a side of tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or hot sauce. They go great with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw.
Tips for Success:
- Canned Salmon: Use good-quality canned salmon, and make sure to drain it well before mixing. If you prefer, you can use fresh cooked salmon, but canned is more traditional and convenient.
- Cornmeal & Flour: The combination of cornmeal and flour gives these patties the perfect texture—crispy on the outside but tender on the inside. If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can substitute the flour with rice flour or another gluten-free flour.
- Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when you form the patties. If the mixture is too runny, add a little more cornmeal or flour until it’s firm enough to shape.
- Frying Tips: Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the patties to stick together and prevent them from getting crispy. Fry them in batches if necessary.
- Customization: You can add a variety of flavorings to the mixture, like chopped bell peppers, celery, or hot sauce to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions:
- Tartar Sauce: A simple tartar sauce made with mayo, relish, and lemon juice pairs wonderfully with these salmon patties.
- Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, collard greens, cornbread, or a simple salad for a complete Southern meal.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice on the patties adds a nice burst of freshness.
Variations:
- Spicy Salmon Patties: Add a bit of cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to give these patties some heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Use canned tuna or a vegetable-based filling (like mashed beans or potatoes) for a non-fish version.
- Cheesy Salmon Patties: Mix in some shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
These Southern Salmon Patties are easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and a wonderful way to turn canned salmon into a hearty meal. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a tasty snack, they’re sure to be a favorite!
