Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a cherished staple in Southern cuisine, offering a delightful balance of flavor and texture. Made from canned pink salmon and seasoned with a blend of spices, these patties are fried to perfection—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether served as a main course alongside coleslaw and cornbread or as an appetizer, these salmon patties are sure to please any palate.
Ingredients
To make Southern Fried Salmon Patties, you will need:
1 (12 oz) can pink salmon: The star of the dish, providing a rich, savory flavor.
2 whole eggs: Acts as a binder, helping the patties hold together during cooking.
1/4 cup chopped onions: Adds a subtle sweetness and texture.
1/4 cup chopped bell pepper: Provides a mild, sweet flavor and a bit of crunch.
2 tablespoons yellow cornmeal: Gives the patties a slightly gritty texture and helps them crisp up.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a hint of garlic flavor.
2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Contributes moisture and richness to the patties.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Provides a deep umami flavor.
1 teaspoon hot sauce (e.g., Texas Pete): Adds a bit of heat and tanginess.
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a mild spiciness.
1 slice white bread, crumbled: Helps absorb moisture and gives the patties structure.
1/4 cup flour (added slowly, as needed to adjust consistency): Helps thicken the mixture to the right consistency.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Salmon
Drain the Salmon: Open the can of salmon and drain it well using a colander. Remove any large bones if desired, though they are edible and rich in calcium.
Flake the Salmon: Use a fork to flake the salmon into small pieces in a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine Ingredients
Add the Ingredients: To the bowl with the salmon, add the eggs, chopped onions, bell peppers, cornmeal, salt, garlic powder, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and black pepper.
Mix in the Bread: Crumble the slice of white bread into the mixture to help bind everything together.
3. Adjust Consistency
Check the Mixture: Gently mix all the ingredients together, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
Thicken if Necessary: If the mixture is too wet, gradually add flour until it reaches a thick, workable consistency.
4. Shape the Patties
Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties about 1/2-inch thick.
5. Fry the Patties
Heat the Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add enough shortening or oil for frying.
Cook the Patties: Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve
Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Enjoy Warm: Serve the patties warm, either on their own or with your favorite sides.
Variations
Spicy Salmon Patties: Increase the amount of hot sauce or add finely chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
Cheesy Salmon Patties: Incorporate 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture for a cheesy twist.
Herbed Salmon Patties: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.
Low-Carb Salmon Patties: Use almond flour instead of bread crumbs and cornmeal to make a low-carb version.
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread and flour alternatives to make the patties gluten-free.
Dairy-Free Option: Omit the mayonnaise or use a dairy-free alternative to keep the patties dairy-free.
Egg-Free Option: Replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) to make the patties egg-free.
Healthier Version: Bake the patties 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 is both affordable and versatile. With simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Whether you enjoy them herbed, cheesy, or spicy, these patties are sure to become a favorite in your household. Try experimenting with the variations and substitutions to create a version that best suits your taste and dietary needs!
