Oh my goodness, let’s talk about southern fried salmon patties! These little gems are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, bursting with flavor that takes me back to family gatherings where the kitchen was filled with laughter and the smell of something delicious frying away. Trust me, when I make these, it’s like a warm hug from the South, and each bite is a reminder of those cozy evenings spent with loved ones around the dinner table. The combination of flaky salmon, crunchy breadcrumbs, and a hint of lemon makes these patties so irresistible. They’re not just a meal; they’re a celebration of togetherness and comfort. Whether you’re whipping them up for a casual weeknight dinner or serving them at a gathering, these southern fried salmon patties are sure to impress and create memories that last a lifetime. You won’t believe how easy they are to make!
Ingredients List
- 2 cans of salmon, drained
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup oil for frying
How to Prepare Southern Fried Salmon Patties
Alright, let’s dive into making these delicious southern fried salmon patties! First things first, you’ll want to grab a mixing bowl. In that bowl, combine the drained salmon, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, eggs, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. I always use my hands to mix everything together because it just feels right! Make sure it’s well combined, but don’t overdo it; you want to keep some of that delightful salmon texture.
Once everything is mixed, it’s time to form the patties. I like to make them about the size of my palm – not too thick, but thick enough to hold together nicely. You should end up with about 8 patties, depending on how generous you are. Now, set them aside while we get the skillet ready.
Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a little drop of water sizzles and dances across the surface. Carefully place the patties in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan; you want them to fry evenly. Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn that beautiful golden brown color. It’s mesmerizing to watch them cook, and the smell? Absolutely divine!
Once they’re perfectly crispy, use a slotted spatula to transfer the patties onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Let them sit for a minute to cool slightly, and then they’re ready to be served warm. Just imagine taking that first bite – it’s going to be amazing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Packed with flavor from fresh salmon and zesty lemon.
- Golden, crispy exterior with a tender, flaky inside.
- Great source of protein, making it a healthy choice.
- Versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a snack.
- Suitable for pescatarians and a hit with everyone!
Tips for Success
To really elevate your southern fried salmon patties, here are a few tips I swear by! First, if you can, use fresh salmon instead of canned for an even more vibrant flavor. But hey, if canned is all you have, it’ll still be delicious! You can also swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or panko for an extra crunch. Trust me, it makes a difference!
Another tip is to let the mixture chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes before forming patties. This helps them hold their shape while frying! When frying, don’t be afraid to adjust the heat; medium heat is key to achieving that perfect golden brown without burning. And if you hear them sizzling, that’s music to your ears! Lastly, try serving them with homemade tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice – it adds a delightful zing that complements the salmon beautifully.
Nutritional Information
When you enjoy these southern fried salmon patties, you’re not just indulging in a delicious meal; you’re also getting a nutritious boost! Each patty, which is about the size of your palm, contains approximately 180 calories. They offer 10 grams of fat, with only 2 grams being saturated fat, making them a heart-friendly choice. Plus, you’ll get around 15 grams of protein, which is fantastic for keeping you full and satisfied. With 10 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of fiber, they fit nicely into a balanced diet. So go ahead, savor each bite guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! Using fresh salmon will give your southern fried salmon patties an even richer flavor and better texture. Just make sure to cook it properly before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How do I know when the patties are done frying?
When your patties are golden brown and crispy on the outside, they’re ready to come out of the skillet. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, and keep an eye on them so they don’t burn. It’s hard to resist the smell!
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can! For a healthier version, place the formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy, but they’ll still be delicious!
What should I serve with southern fried salmon patties?
These patties pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or even a side of roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon for an extra kick!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet for a few minutes to get that crispiness back. Enjoy them again and relive the deliciousness!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your southern fried salmon patties, the right sides and sauces can really elevate the meal! I love serving these patties alongside a vibrant, crisp salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette works wonders to balance the richness of the salmon. If you’re feeling a bit more indulgent, a creamy coleslaw is a classic pairing that adds a delightful crunch!
Don’t forget about sauces! A dollop of homemade tartar sauce is a must for that zesty flavor kick, but I also enjoy a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before taking a bite – it’s like sunshine in your mouth! For beverages, a chilled glass of sweet tea or a light white wine complements the meal perfectly. Trust me, these pairs will make your southern fried salmon patties even more memorable!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your delicious southern fried salmon patties fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up! When you’re ready to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side. This will help restore that crispy exterior and warm them through without drying them out. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop them in the microwave, but they won’t get that lovely crunch back. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor experience!
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Southern Fried Salmon Patties: 8 Comforting Family Bites
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Southern fried salmon patties are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines fresh salmon with simple ingredients for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cans of salmon, drained
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the drained salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, eggs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into patties.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh salmon for a better flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Serve with tartar sauce or lemon wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: southern fried salmon patties