Description
Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a classic American comfort food featuring tender salmon mixed with fresh vegetables and spices, formed into crispy, golden patties and fried to perfection. These easy-to-make fish cakes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious Southern-style meal served with tartar sauce or over grits.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 (14.75 oz) can pink salmon (drained, bones and skin removed)
- 1/3 cup finely diced onion
- 1/4 cup finely diced green bell pepper (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal (optional for extra crunch)
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (if needed)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the drained salmon, finely diced onion, green bell pepper (if using), egg, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, hot sauce (if using), Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Add Binding Ingredients: Stir in the breadcrumbs and cornmeal to the salmon mixture, mixing thoroughly until the ingredients are fully combined. If the mixture feels too dry and doesn’t hold together, gradually add one to two tablespoons of milk to achieve the right consistency.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 6 to 8 even patties, each about half an inch thick. For an extra crispy crust, lightly dredge each patty in additional breadcrumbs before cooking.
- Heat Oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat until shimmering and hot enough for frying.
- Fry Patties: Place the patties into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry each side about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the patties turn golden brown and are thoroughly heated through.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the patties from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot with tartar sauce, hot sauce, or over grits for a traditional Southern meal.
Notes
- Serve with tartar sauce, hot sauce, or alongside grits for an authentic Southern experience.
- Leftover patties reheat well in a skillet or air fryer without losing their crispiness.
- Fresh cooked salmon can be used as a substitute for canned salmon if preferred.
