Southern Salmon Patties

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances comfort food with Southern flavor, these Southern Salmon Patties are the ideal recipe to try. This iconic dish has been passed down through generations in many Southern kitchens, offering a budget-friendly, flavorful, and crispy meal that is easy to prepare. Made with pantry staples like canned salmon, cornmeal, and onions, these patties come together quickly for a delicious lunch, dinner, or even a satisfying snack.

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In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of making Southern Salmon Patties, discuss their history and versatility, and share some tips to help you make the best patties possible. We’ll also dive into some variations and serving suggestions, so you can enjoy this dish however you like. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a plate of golden, crispy salmon patties ready to be served with your favorite dipping sauce.

Why Southern Salmon Patties Are a Beloved Classic

Southern Salmon Patties are more than just a meal; they’re a piece of culinary history. Dating back to times when canned goods were kitchen staples in many American homes, these patties have stood the test of time for several reasons:

1. Quick and Easy to Make

One of the biggest advantages of this dish is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients—many of which you likely already have on hand—Southern Salmon Patties come together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

2. Economical and Pantry-Friendly

Canned salmon is affordable and readily available, making it a great option for budget-conscious meals. With just a couple of cans, you can whip up a satisfying dinner for the whole family. Plus, the other ingredients—like flour, cornmeal, and mayonnaise—are common kitchen staples, so there’s no need for a grocery store run if you’ve stocked your pantry well.

3. Crispy, Golden Perfection

The key to a good salmon patty is its texture. The outside should be crispy and golden, while the inside remains tender and flavorful. The combination of flour and cornmeal helps achieve that crunchy exterior, while the mayonnaise adds creaminess and richness to the mix.

4. Versatile for Any Occasion

Southern Salmon Patties are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Whether as a main course alongside traditional Southern sides like collard greens and cornbread, or as a sandwich filler, these patties are a crowd-pleaser. They can also be enjoyed for breakfast with eggs or as an appetizer with a tasty dipping sauce.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Southern Salmon Patties

Now that you know why these salmon patties are so loved, let’s walk through the recipe in detail. Whether you’re cooking for the first time or simply refreshing your memory, this guide will ensure you achieve perfect, crispy patties every time.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cans of salmon (14-15 oz each)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 eggs
• 6 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 6 tablespoons flour
• 6 tablespoons cornmeal
• Oil for frying (vegetable oil or any neutral oil suitable for frying)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Begin by opening the cans of salmon and draining any excess liquid. Transfer the salmon to a large mixing bowl. If desired, you can remove the pin bones from the salmon, although they are edible and will soften during the cooking process.

Add the diced onion, eggs, and mayonnaise to the bowl with the salmon. Stir the ingredients together until they are well combined. The eggs act as a binder, helping the mixture hold its shape, while the mayonnaise adds a rich, creamy texture.

2. Add the Dry Ingredients

Next, incorporate the flour and cornmeal into the mixture. The flour helps bind the patties and adds structure, while the cornmeal contributes to the crispy exterior. Stir everything together until the mixture is evenly combined. The batter should be thick enough to form into patties without falling apart.

3. Heat the Oil

Heat a generous amount of oil in a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to fry the patties, but not too hot that it burns them before the inside is cooked. Test the heat by dropping a small piece of the mixture into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

4. Form the Patties

Using an ice cream scoop or a large spoon, scoop out equal portions of the salmon mixture. This ensures that the patties are uniform in size, which helps them cook evenly. Flatten each portion slightly to form a patty, about half an inch thick.

5. Fry the Patties

Carefully place the patties in the heated oil. Fry them in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy patties. Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Flip the patties halfway through cooking to ensure both sides are evenly browned. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

6. Serve and Enjoy

While the patties are still hot, sprinkle them lightly with salt for an extra touch of flavor. Serve your Southern Salmon Patties hot, with your favorite dipping sauce. Tartar sauce, remoulade, or even a simple lemon aioli pair perfectly with the savory, crispy patties.

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Tips for Making the Best Southern Salmon Patties

Making perfect salmon patties is simple, but these tips will help ensure you get the best results every time.

1. Drain the Salmon Well

Draining the excess liquid from the canned salmon is crucial to avoid a watery mixture. If the salmon mixture is too wet, the patties may not hold together well or develop a crispy crust. Be sure to press out any excess moisture before mixing the salmon with the other ingredients.

2. Adjust Seasoning to Taste

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You can adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. Add salt and pepper to taste, and if you like a little heat, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

3. Choose the Right Oil for Frying

A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, is ideal for frying salmon patties. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties—otherwise, they may absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy.

4. Make Ahead for Convenience

The salmon mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or when you’re planning to entertain guests.

Serving Suggestions for Southern Salmon Patties

Now that you’ve made your crispy, golden salmon patties, let’s talk about how to serve them. These versatile patties pair well with a variety of sides and sauces, making them a great addition to any meal. Here are a few ideas:

1. Traditional Southern Sides

For a classic Southern meal, serve your salmon patties with:

• Collard greens or turnip greens
• Mashed potatoes or potato salad
• Cornbread or biscuits

2. As a Sandwich or Slider

Transform your salmon patties into a hearty sandwich by serving them on a bun or slider roll with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce. This is a great way to enjoy leftovers, too!

3. Breakfast with Eggs

Salmon patties also make a wonderful breakfast. Serve them with scrambled or fried eggs for a protein-packed start to your day.

4. With a Fresh Salad

For a lighter option, pair your salmon patties with a fresh green salad or a cucumber and tomato salad. The fresh, crisp vegetables complement the rich, savory patties perfectly.

Why Southern Salmon Patties Should Be on Your Menu

Southern Salmon Patties are a timeless dish that continues to win over generations of food lovers. They are simple, economical, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect option for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or any time you need a satisfying meal. With their crispy exterior, tender center, and endless serving possibilities, these patties are a true testament to Southern comfort food at its finest.

Whether you’re new to making salmon patties or looking to revisit this classic dish, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. The ease of preparation, paired with the irresistible combination of salmon, onions, and cornmeal, makes these patties a winner every time.

Serve them with your favorite sides or enjoy them on their own—either way, you’re in for a delicious meal that showcases the best of Southern cooking.