Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a classic comfort food that brings a taste of the South to your kitchen. These savory patties are made from canned pink salmon, seasoned with a mix of spices, and pan-fried to perfection. The combination of crunchy exterior and tender, flavorful interior makes them an irresistible dish. Whether served as a main course with sides like coleslaw and cornbread or as an appetizer, these patties are sure to be a hit.
This recipe is not only delicious but also economical and easy to prepare, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. The use of canned salmon makes it convenient, while the addition of ingredients like bell pepper, onions, and a touch of hot sauce elevates the flavor profile. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Southern Fried Salmon Patties Recipe
Ingredients
1 (12 oz) can pink salmon
2 whole eggs
1/4 cup chopped onions
1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
2 tablespoons yellow cornmeal
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon hot sauce (e.g., Texas Pete)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 slice white bread, crumbled
1/4 cup flour (added slowly, as needed to adjust consistency)
Instructions
Prepare the Salmon:
Open the can of salmon and drain it using a colander. Remove any large bones if desired, though they are edible.
Flake the salmon with a fork and place it in a large mixing bowl.
Combine Ingredients:
Add the eggs, chopped onions, and bell peppers to the bowl with the salmon.
Mix in the cornmeal, salt, garlic powder, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and black pepper.
Crumble the slice of white bread into the mixture.
Adjust Consistency:
Gently mix all the ingredients together, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
If the mixture is too moist, gradually add flour until the desired consistency is reached.
Shape Patties:
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties.
Fry the Patties:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add shortening or oil for frying.
Place the patties in the skillet and cook until the bottom is browned, then carefully turn them over to brown the other side.
Serve:
Once both sides are browned and the patties are cooked through, remove them from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations
Spicy Salmon Patties:
Increase the amount of hot sauce or add finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture for extra heat.
Cheesy Salmon Patties:
Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the salmon mixture for a cheesy twist.
Herbed Salmon Patties:
Add fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or cilantro to the mixture for a fresh, herbal flavor.
Low-Carb Salmon Patties:
Replace the bread and cornmeal with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb option.
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Option:
Use gluten-free bread and flour to make the patties suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Dairy-Free Option:
Ensure that the mayonnaise used is dairy-free and avoid adding any cheese.
Egg-Free Option:
Replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) as a binder.
Healthier Version:
Bake the patties in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying to reduce the fat content.
Conclusion
Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that can be customized to fit various dietary preferences and tastes. The combination of canned salmon, spices, and simple pantry ingredients makes this a convenient and satisfying meal option. Whether you prefer them spicy, cheesy, or herbed, these patties are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors and crispy texture of this Southern classic, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations to make it your own.