Introduction
If you’re searching for an Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe that’s as delicious as it is easy to make, you’re in for a treat. This recipe has stood the test of time and is cherished by home cooks everywhere. With just a few pantry ingredients, you can recreate the nostalgic flavors that have been a staple in many family kitchens for generations. Imagine a plate of crispy, golden-brown salmon patties with a tender, flavorful interior – it’s the kind of comfort food that brings back fond memories.
The beauty of this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe lies in its simplicity. With canned salmon, buttery Ritz crackers, and a few basic seasonings, you’ll have a versatile dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer. This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste. Whether you’re a fan of the classic flavor or want to add a bit of spice, these salmon patties are sure to become a favorite.
Recipe Card
- Recipe Name: Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
- Description: Nostalgic salmon patties made with canned salmon and Ritz crackers, fried to golden perfection.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 271 kcal
Ingredients:
- 1 cup crushed Ritz cracker crumbs (about 25 crackers)
- 18-19 ounces canned salmon, drained (3 cans of 6 ounces each or 2 cans of 14.75 ounces)
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely sliced
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Crush the Crackers: Place 25 Ritz crackers in a zip-top bag, seal it, and crush them with a rolling pin until you have fine crumbs.
- Prepare the Salmon: Drain the liquid from the canned salmon after opening it. If required, remove any bones or skin.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the salmon, eggs, lemon juice, green onions, parsley, and cracker crumbs. Stir until fully blended.
- Shape the Patties: Take about ½ cup of the mixture and form it into a patty, flattening to about 4 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. Repeat to make 6 patties.
- Fry the Patties: Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add patties, leaving space between them. Fry for 8 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until golden.
- Drain and Serve: To drain extra oil, place the cooked patties on a plate covered with paper towels. Warm up and serve with a dipping sauce or lemon wedges.
Notes:
- For the finest flavor, use high-quality canned salmon that is marked “wild-caught.”
- Ritz crackers give a buttery, crisp texture, but you can substitute with Panko or saltine crumbs.
- Adjust the skillet heat to avoid burning, and give each side time to cook fully for best results.
Nutrition Information:
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 271 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: 435mg
- Potassium: 335mg
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 161 IU
- Vitamin C: 3 mg
- Calcium: 270 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Why This Traditional Salmon Patties Recipe Will Be Your Favorite
This Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe has several qualities that make it a hit among home cooks. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Simple and Affordable Ingredients: This recipe uses canned salmon, eggs, and crackers, all of which are affordable pantry staples.
- Quick and Easy: In just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve.
- Nostalgic Comfort Food: With its classic flavor, this dish brings a touch of nostalgia and feels like a warm hug on a plate.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love these crispy patties! They’re a great way to introduce kids to seafood.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Customize this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe with different seasonings or make mini patties as an appetizer.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
In this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe, each ingredient plays an important role in creating the classic flavor and texture:
- Canned Salmon: Canned salmon is convenient and nutritious, providing the foundation of this recipe. Look for “wild-caught” varieties for better flavor. You can use fresh-cooked salmon if you prefer, but canned salmon provides a moist texture and is more economical.
- Ritz Crackers: These buttery crackers add richness and bind the mixture together. If you don’t have Ritz, saltines or Panko breadcrumbs work well as substitutes, though they may alter the texture slightly.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, holding the ingredients together so the patties don’t fall apart. Without eggs, the patties would crumble in the skillet.
- Green Onions: They provide a mild onion flavor without overpowering the salmon. If you’re out of green onions, you can use finely diced red onion or chives.
- Lemon Juice: The acidity of lemon juice brightens the flavor and balances the richness of the salmon. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best.
- Parsley Flakes: Dried parsley adds a hint of herbiness. Fresh parsley or dill can be used as an alternative, adding a more vibrant flavor to the Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe.
How to Make the Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Crush the Crackers
Place about 25 Ritz crackers into a zip-top bag, seal it, and use a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs. These crumbs help hold the patties together and add a lovely buttery taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Open the canned salmon and drain it well. If the salmon has skin or bones, remove them carefully. Flake the salmon with a fork in a medium bowl to break it into small pieces.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
Add the crushed crackers, whisked eggs, lemon juice, green onions, and parsley to the bowl of salmon. Use a spoon or your hands to mix until everything is thoroughly combined. When pushed, the mixture ought to stay together and be sticky.
Step 4: Shape the Patties
Scoop about ½ cup of the mixture and form it into a patty about 4 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. Repeat until you have six patties. Set them on a plate or baking sheet to rest briefly.
Step 5: Fry the Patties
Heat the vegetable oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place three to four patties in the skillet while the oil is heated. Fry each patty for about 8 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
To drain extra oil, take the patties out of the skillet and put them on a plate covered with paper towels. Serve warm with lemon wedges or a dipping sauce, like tartar or aioli.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use a Binder: Eggs and crushed crackers act as the binder in this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe. Make sure they’re well-mixed to keep the patties intact.
- Heat Control: Fry the patties over medium-high heat. Too much heat will burn the outside before the inside is cooked through, while too little heat makes them greasy.
- Avoid Over-Flipping: Flip each patty only once to prevent it from falling apart. Allow them to cook undisturbed on each side for the crispiest crust.
- Let the Patties Rest: After forming, let the patties sit for a few minutes. This gives the mixture time to firm up and helps them hold their shape better when frying.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use a Binder: Eggs and crushed crackers act as the binder in this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe. Make sure they’re well-mixed to keep the patties intact.
- Heat Control: Fry the patties over medium-high heat. Too much heat will burn the outside before the inside is cooked through, while too little heat makes them greasy.
- Avoid Over-Flipping: Flip each patty only once to prevent it from falling apart. Allow them to cook undisturbed on each side for the crispiest crust.
- Let the Patties Rest: After forming, let the patties sit for a few minutes. This gives the mixture time to firm up and helps them hold their shape better when frying.
- Allow for Even Heating: When frying multiple batches, make sure to let the oil come back to temperature between batches. This ensures each patty cooks evenly and achieves the perfect golden crust.
- Don’t Overmix the Ingredients: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make the patties dense rather than light and flaky.
- Test for Seasoning: Before forming all the patties, cook a small amount of the mixture to check for seasoning. This lets you adjust the salt, pepper, or other spices to taste before frying the full batch.
- Keep Ingredients Dry: If you’re using fresh ingredients like herbs or onions, pat them dry before mixing. Excess moisture can cause the patties to fall apart or become mushy inside.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some easy ways to change up the flavor profile or texture to suit your preferences:
- Cheesy Twist: Add a handful of shredded cheddar or Parmesan to the mixture for a rich, cheesy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the salmon.
- Herb-Infused: Fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or chives add a delightful aroma. Dill, in particular, enhances the classic seafood flavor of the patties.
- Spicy Salmon Patties: For a bit of heat, stir in ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. This spicy variation is especially delicious and served with a cooling dip, like ranch or a yoghurt-based sauce.
- Crunchy Coating: For an extra-crispy texture, lightly dredge the outside of each patty in Panko breadcrumbs before frying. This adds a nice crunch and keeps the inside tender.
- Asian-Inspired Flavor: Add a teaspoon of soy sauce, minced garlic, and a dash of sesame oil to the mixture. Serve these with a sriracha mayo or teriyaki sauce for dipping.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs in place of the Ritz crackers. For a low-carb variation, almond flour can also be used.
These variations let you explore different flavor combinations while keeping the core of this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe intact.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Maintaining the freshness and flavor of your Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe requires proper storage and reheating. Here’s how to maintain their peak performance:
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Allow the patties to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They have a three to four-day lifespan.
- Freezer: These patties freeze well if you want to prepare a large quantity. Lay them out on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and freeze until set. Then transfer them to a bag or container that can be frozen. They have a three-month lifespan.
Reheating
- In the Oven: To keep the patties crispy, reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- On the Stovetop: Add a bit of oil to a skillet and warm the patties over medium heat, flipping once, until they’re hot and crisp.
- Microwave: The patties can be microwaved; however, be advised that their crispy texture may be lost. Heat in a microwave on medium power for brief bursts.
Serving Suggestions for Your Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
These Old Fashioned Salmon Patties are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
- Classic Southern Style: Serve the patties with creamy coleslaw, cornbread, and a side of green beans for a comforting, down-home meal.
- Salmon Patty Sliders: Make mini patties and serve them on slider buns with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce for a delicious appetizer or snack.
- With Fresh Greens: Pair the patties with a light, refreshing salad, such as a mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette, for a balanced meal.
- Brunch-Style: Top each patty with a poached egg and hollandaise sauce for a unique twist on Eggs Benedict. This is a great option for a weekend brunch.
- Over Rice or Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the patties over a bed of rice or pasta with a drizzle of creamy garlic sauce or marinara sauce.
- Sauce Pairings: Tartar sauce, lemon aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo make excellent dipping sauces and add an extra burst of flavor to each bite.
These serving suggestions allow you to tailor the Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe to suit any occasion or meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I keep salmon patties from falling apart?
A: The key to keeping salmon patties intact is using a good binder, such as eggs and crushed crackers, to hold the ingredients together. Make sure to mix the ingredients well and avoid flipping the patties too early while cooking. It also helps to form the patties tightly before placing them in the skillet.
Q: Is it possible to substitute canned salmon with fresh?
A: Absolutely! Fresh salmon works beautifully in this recipe. Cook the salmon first, flake it, and proceed with the recipe as directed. Fresh salmon may add a bit more moisture to the mixture, so adjust the amount of crackers as needed to maintain the right consistency.
Q: Is it possible to bake the salmon patties rather than fry them?
A: Yes, if you want a healthier choice, you can bake the patties. Place the patties on a baking sheet that has been oiled and preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, turning them over halfway through or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
Q: For this recipe, what kind of fish works best?
A: Canned salmon labelled “wild-caught” is ideal for this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe, as it has a firmer texture and richer flavor. But in a pinch, any kind of canned salmon will do. Just make sure to completely drain it before combining.
Q: Can I prepare the patties in advance?
A: Yes! You can prepare the mixture, form the patties, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes it even easier to fry them up quickly when you’re ready to serve.
Related Recipes to Try
If you loved this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe, here are some related recipes that showcase similar flavors and techniques:
- Classic Crab Cakes: These crab cakes offer a similar texture and taste, but with the sweet, delicate flavor of crab meat. Perfect for seafood lovers!
- Tuna Patties: For a quick and budget-friendly alternative, tuna patties use canned tuna and similar ingredients, making them an easy, protein-packed meal.
- Cod Fish Cakes: Made with flaky white cod, these fish cakes are light, flavorful, and ideal for pairing with a tangy tartar sauce.
- Potato and Salmon Croquettes: These croquettes combine mashed potatoes and salmon, creating a softer patty that’s perfect with a squeeze of lemon.
- Shrimp Cakes with Remoulade Sauce: For something a little different, try shrimp cakes seasoned with herbs and spices, served with a rich remoulade.
These related recipes are great options for seafood lovers looking to try new ways to enjoy classic dishes.
Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe is a simple, classic dish that never goes out of style. With its crispy golden crust and tender interior, it’s the perfect blend of texture and flavor that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re making these salmon patties for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend brunch, the recipe’s versatility makes it a winner every time.
Not only is this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe quick and easy to prepare but it’s also packed with nutrients and can be customized to suit your taste. From adding fresh herbs to experimenting with different sides, there are endless ways to make this recipe your own.
Try this recipe, and remember to share what you make. Here’s to creating memories around the dinner table with the flavors we love. Enjoy your cooking and happy eating!
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