Salmon patties are delicious, easy-to-make fish cakes. They’re a budget-friendly way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this guide will help you master this classic dish.
Welcome to The Ultimate Guide to Salmon Patties! Here, you’ll find everything you need to know to make the best salmon patties ever. We’ll cover choosing ingredients, preparing the patties, different cooking methods, serving suggestions, and even answer common questions. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your amazing salmon patty skills! For another simple weeknight meal, check out our Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna recipe.
Why This Guide Is Ultimate
This guide is the ultimate resource for salmon patties because it’s packed with helpful information! You’ll find clear step-by-step instructions, delicious variations, time-saving tips, and answers to frequently asked questions. We’ll cover everything from basic techniques to advanced tips and tricks!
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients for our salmon patties. You’ll probably have most of these items in your pantry already!
Essential Ingredients
* **Canned Salmon:** This is the star of the show! Look for canned salmon that’s boneless and skinless for convenience. You can use different varieties like pink or sockeye. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can substitute with cooked, flaked fresh salmon. About a 14.75-ounce can will do.
* **Breadcrumbs:** These help bind the patties together and give them a nice texture. Plain breadcrumbs work best, but panko breadcrumbs will make the patties extra crispy. You can even use crushed crackers in a pinch. Aim for about 1/2 cup. For a crispy side, try our Crispy Fried Cornbread.
* **Egg:** This acts as a glue, holding the patties together. One large egg is usually enough. If you have an egg allergy, you can try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) as a binder.
* **Onion:** This adds flavor and moisture to the patties. Use about 1/4 cup of finely chopped yellow or white onion.
* **Seasonings:** Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder are essential for enhancing the flavor of the salmon. Start with 1/2 teaspoon of each and adjust to your liking. You can also add other seasonings like paprika or Old Bay. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Optional Add-ins
* **Diced Bell Peppers and Celery:** These add a nice crunch and subtle sweetness. Use about 1/4 cup of each, finely diced.
* **Jalapeno:** If you like a little heat, add a finely chopped jalapeno (remove the seeds for less spice).
* **Fresh Herbs:** Parsley and dill are classic additions to salmon patties. Use about 1 tablespoon of each, chopped. Fresh herbs add brightness and freshness.
* **Lemon Zest:** A little lemon zest adds a zesty, citrusy flavor that complements the salmon beautifully. Use about 1 teaspoon.
* **Hot Sauce:** For extra kick, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
Preparing the Salmon Patties
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get started on making the salmon patties!
Draining and Flaking the Salmon
Open the can of salmon and drain off the liquid. You can use a colander or strainer for this. Press down lightly with a fork to remove excess liquid. This prevents the patties from becoming too mushy.
Next, gently flake the salmon into a medium-sized bowl. Be careful not to mash it too much. You want some larger chunks of salmon for texture. Remove any bones or skin you might find.
Combining the Ingredients
Add the breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, and seasonings to the bowl with the flaked salmon. If you’re using any optional add-ins, now is the time to incorporate them as well.
Mix everything together with a fork until just combined. Don’t overmix, as this can make the patties tough. The mixture should be moist enough to hold its shape but not too wet. If it seems too dry, you can add a little more breadcrumbs. If it is too wet add an additional tablespoon of breadcrumbs at a time until desired consistency is reached. Try serving these with a side of Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs.
Shaping the Patties
Divide the salmon mixture into 4 equal portions. You can use a burger press to shape the patties, or you can do it by hand. If shaping by hand, gently form each portion into a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure they are roughly the same size and thickness so they cook evenly. A slightly larger patty will require longer to cook through. You should aim to make patties that are about 3-4 inches in diameter.
Cooking the Salmon Patties
Now for the exciting part – cooking! We’ll cover three popular methods: pan-frying, baking, and air-frying.
Pan-Frying Salmon Patties
Pan-frying is a classic way to cook salmon patties, giving them a delicious crispy crust. Heat about 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Olive oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil all work well.
Once the oil is hot (it should shimmer), carefully place the salmon patties in the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
To ensure even cooking, flip the patties only once. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning. Lower heat will allow the patties to cook through without burning the outside. For a heartier breakfast option, consider our Ultimate Breakfast Casserole.
Baking Salmon Patties
Baking is a healthier alternative to pan-frying, as it requires less oil. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with oil or cooking spray.
Place the salmon patties on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between them. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. To prevent the patties from drying out, you can lightly brush them with oil before baking. You can also cover the baking sheet loosely with foil for the first 10 minutes of baking. This helps to retain moisture. Check out Natasha’s Kitchen for more great seafood recipes: Salmon Recipes – Natasha’s Kitchen.
Air-Frying Salmon Patties
Air-frying is a great way to get crispy salmon patties with minimal oil. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Place the salmon patties in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Serving and Enjoying Your Salmon Patties
Your delicious salmon patties are ready! Let’s explore some serving suggestions and side dish pairings. Indulge in a sweet treat afterward with our Ultimate Cheesecake Brownies.
Side Dish Pairings
**Classic Pairings:**
* **Tartar Sauce:** A dollop of creamy tartar sauce is a classic accompaniment to salmon patties. The tangy flavor complements the richness of the salmon. Try our homemade tartar sauce recipe [link to your tartar sauce recipe if available]. For another delicious dessert option, try Natasha’s No-Bake Cheesecake.
* **Lemon Wedges:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor of the salmon.
* **Coleslaw:** The creamy, crunchy texture of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the salmon patties.
* **Potato Salad:** A classic side dish for any picnic or barbecue.
* **Steamed Vegetables:** Simple steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a healthy and flavorful touch.
**Creative Pairings:**
* **Mango Salsa:** A sweet and spicy mango salsa adds a tropical twist.
* **Quinoa Salad:** A light and fluffy quinoa salad with herbs and vegetables.
* **Roasted Sweet Potatoes:** The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the savory salmon.
Serving Temperature and Storage
Serve your salmon patties hot, straight from the pan, oven, or air fryer. They are best enjoyed immediately for optimal crispiness.
To store leftovers, let the patties cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, in the oven at 350°F (175°C), or in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until heated through. Avoid overcooking when reheating, as this can dry out the patties.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ultimate guide to salmon patties recipes
This guide truly is the ultimate resource for making salmon patties! It provides detailed instructions for every step, from choosing the right ingredients to mastering different cooking techniques. We’ve also included helpful tips, variations, and answers to common questions, making it a one-stop shop for all your salmon patty needs. You’ll be a salmon patty pro in no time!
Old fashioned salmon patties recipe
Old-fashioned salmon patties typically rely on simple pantry staples like canned salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, and onions. They are often pan-fried until golden brown and served with classic sides like tartar sauce and coleslaw. This guide’s basic recipe embraces that tradition, using those core ingredients and pan-frying as a primary cooking method. We also offer modern updates and variations to suit different tastes.
The ultimate guide to salmon patties ingredients
The essential ingredients for salmon patties are canned salmon, breadcrumbs (for binding), an egg (for binding), onion (for flavor), and seasonings. Optional add-ins like bell peppers, celery, jalapeno, fresh herbs, lemon zest, and hot sauce can further enhance the flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating delicious and well-structured patties. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will result in the best flavor.
Salmon croquettes Allrecipes
While both salmon patties and salmon croquettes are made with cooked salmon, they have some key differences. Salmon patties are typically more straightforward, combining flaked salmon with basic binders and seasonings. Salmon croquettes often involve a thicker, creamier sauce base (like béchamel) and may be breaded and deep-fried. Allrecipes is a great resource for finding a variety of salmon croquette recipes if you want to explore that variation. You’ll likely find salmon patties under “quick and easy” recipes whereas croquettes are often listed under “appetizers.”
Conclusion
Salmon patties are a versatile and delicious meal that can be enjoyed any time of year. They are packed with protein and healthy fats, making them a nutritious choice for both lunch and dinner. This guide has provided you with all the tools you need to make perfect salmon patties, whether you prefer them pan-fried, baked, or air-fried.
Now it’s your turn! Get cooking and discover the joy of homemade salmon patties. Don’t forget to experiment with different flavors and sides to create your own signature dish. Share your salmon patty successes (and any creative variations!) in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!