There’s something incredibly comforting about a well-made salmon patty. It’s one of those timeless recipes that harks back to simpler times, offering a perfect blend of nostalgia and flavor. For many of us, the aroma of salmon patties sizzling in the pan takes us back to family dinners, where food was not just sustenance but a shared experience. My own memories of salmon patties revolve around my parents, who made them with such love and care that they turned an ordinary meal into a special occasion.
My mother, in particular, had a knack for transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Her canned salmon patties were a testament to her culinary ingenuity. These patties were not just about taste—they were about family, tradition, and the joy of cooking together. I recall the way she would expertly shape the patties and fry them to golden perfection, while the entire house filled with a mouth-watering aroma that promised a delicious meal.
This recipe for Canned Salmon Patties is a tribute to those cherished family moments. It’s straightforward yet delicious, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a make-ahead meal that you can enjoy later. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile, ideal for serving with a variety of sides or even turning into a hearty salmon burger.
Ingredients
1 can (14.75 oz) of salmon
1/3 cup bread crumbs
2 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 egg, beaten
4 tablespoons butter (for frying)
Lemon and dill (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Salmon
Start by opening the can of salmon and draining it thoroughly. This step is crucial to remove excess liquid that can make the patties too mushy. After draining, carefully remove any bones and skin from the salmon. While canned salmon typically comes with soft bones that are edible, you might prefer to remove them for a smoother texture. Flake the salmon with a fork to break it into smaller pieces, making it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
2. Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon with bread crumbs, chopped green onions, and chopped celery. The bread crumbs will help bind the patties together, while the green onions and celery add a fresh crunch and flavor. Add the mayonnaise, which provides moisture and a creamy texture to the patties. Finally, add the beaten egg to help hold everything together.
Mix all these ingredients thoroughly. It’s important to ensure that the mixture is well combined but not over-mixed. You want the ingredients to be evenly distributed without breaking down the salmon too much.
3. Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Each patty should be about 1/2 inch thick. If you prefer smaller patties, you can make more than four and adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a classic dinner, make two patties for this meal and save the other two for later use, such as in a salmon burger.
4. Heat the Pan
In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over low heat. The butter should be melted just enough to coat the bottom of the pan without burning. This step is essential for achieving a golden-brown crust on the patties. Once the butter is melted, increase the heat to medium.
5. Cook the Patties
Add the salmon patties to the pan. Cook them on medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You might need to adjust the heat to ensure that the patties cook evenly without burning. The exterior should be crispy, while the inside remains moist and flavorful.
6. Serve
Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess butter. This step helps keep the patties crispy. Serve the salmon patties hot, garnished with a sprinkle of dill seed and a splash of lemon juice for added freshness.
7. Accompaniments
For a classic meal, pair the patties with boiled, cut-up potatoes, a hard-boiled egg, cream gravy, and some Candied Crunchy Dill Pickles on the side. These sides complement the salmon patties beautifully, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Variations and Substitutions
Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning in the patties. You can add a pinch of paprika, garlic powder, or black pepper to enhance the flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also be incorporated for added freshness.
Substitutes for Mayonnaise: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for mayonnaise. This will give the patties a slightly tangy flavor and a different texture.
Vegetable Options: To add more vegetables, consider mixing in finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots. These additions will not only boost the nutritional value but also add a nice crunch.
Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs or finely crushed gluten-free crackers. This will keep the patties together without using traditional bread crumbs.
Fish Variations: If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can use canned tuna or another type of fish in place of the salmon. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to match the flavor of the fish you choose.
Summary
Canned Salmon Patties are a delightful and practical choice for a meal that’s both comforting and flavorful. This recipe combines simplicity with rich taste, offering a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or turning them into a delicious salmon burger, these patties are sure to satisfy.
The appeal of this recipe lies in its ease of preparation and the ability to transform basic ingredients into a dish that feels both nostalgic and special. With a golden-brown exterior and a creamy, flavorful interior, these salmon patties are a reminder of home-cooked comfort. So, gather your ingredients, enjoy the process of making this classic dish, and savor the smiles it brings to your table.
Canned Salmon Patties (Best Ever)
Ingredients
- 1 can salmon 14.75 oz, drained and flaked
- 1/3 cup bread crumbs
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1/4 cup celery chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg beaten
- 4 tbsp butter for frying
- lemon for garnish
- dill for garnish
Instructions
- Drain the canned salmon and remove any bones and skin. Flake the salmon into small pieces using a fork.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, bread crumbs, green onions, celery, mayonnaise, and beaten egg. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the mixture into four portions and shape each into a patty, approximately 1/2 inch thick.
- Melt the butter in a large sauté pan over low heat. Increase the heat to medium once the butter is melted.
- Fry the patties in the pan for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown. Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.
- Remove patties from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. Garnish with dill and lemon juice before serving.
