Description
These Southern Salmon Patties are a delicious and easy-to-make comfort food classic, featuring canned salmon combined with onion, eggs, mayonnaise, flour, and cornmeal, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, they offer a flavorful and crispy exterior with a tender, moist inside.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans of salmon (about 14.75 oz each)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 eggs
- 6 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 6 tablespoons cornmeal
- Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Mixture: Open the salmon cans and transfer the contents into a large mixing bowl. Remove the pin bones if preferred. Add the finely diced onion, eggs, and mayonnaise, mixing everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour and cornmeal to the salmon mixture, stirring until an even, cohesive mixture forms that is firm enough to hold shape.
- Heat Oil: Pour oil into a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet to cover the bottom generously and heat it over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Form Patties: Use an ice cream scoop or large spoon to portion out the salmon mixture into uniform balls and then gently flatten them into patties about 1/2-inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- Fry the Patties: Carefully place the patties into the hot oil and fry them, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, flipping once halfway.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the patties from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Lightly sprinkle with salt while hot. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Optionally, add finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture before forming patties for a spicy kick.
Notes
- Removing pin bones is optional but recommended for a smoother texture.
- Mayonnaise adds moisture and flavor but can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
- Adjust frying time based on patty thickness to avoid undercooked centers.
- Use a heavy skillet, like cast iron, for even heat distribution and crispiness.
- Add herbs like dill or parsley for extra freshness if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
