Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe – Crispy & Delicious

Rediscover the charm of classic salmon cakes with this easy recipe. These crispy, pan-fried patties are a comforting meal. They take just 30 minutes to make with simple ingredients.

Whether you’re craving a retro salmon patty or a quick seafood dish, this recipe will please your taste buds.

Key Takeaways

• Classic salmon cakes made with canned or fresh salmon
• Easy 6-ingredient recipe perfect for busy weeknights
• Crispy, pan-fried texture with versatile seasoning options
• Nostalgic, comforting dish that’s a family-friendly favorite
• Customizable to suit your taste preferences

Introduction to Old Fashioned Salmon Patties

Salmon patties, also known as vintage salmon patties or traditional salmon patty, have been a beloved comfort food for generations. These crispy, flavorful bites originated as a budget-friendly way to make use of canned salmon. They’ve since become a classic dish in many households.

Origins of Salmon Patties

The roots of salmon patties can be traced back to the Southern United States. Resourceful cooks there would transform canned salmon into a delicious and filling meal. During times when fresh seafood was scarce or expensive, these patties provided a tasty and affordable alternative.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for classic vintage salmon patties delivers on both flavor and convenience. The patties come together quickly using pantry staples. This makes them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you need a fast meal solution. Plus, the crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior of these patties are sure to delight your taste buds.

“Salmon patties are a true comfort food classic that never goes out of style. This recipe captures all the nostalgic flavors you love in a quick and easy-to-make package.”

Ingredients for Salmon Patties

To make delicious old-fashioned salmon patties, you need a few simple ingredients. Canned salmon is the base, chosen for its ease and quality. Ritz crackers add a crispy texture and a buttery taste. Eggs help bind everything together.

What You Need

• Canned salmon, preferably wild-caught pink, sockeye, or red varieties
• Ritz crackers, crushed into breadcrumbs
• Eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients for Variation

To make your salmon patties even better, try adding some optional ingredients:

• Diced celery for a crunchy touch
• Fresh dill for a bright, herbal note
• Old Bay seasoning for a classic Southern-style flavor
• Minced garlic for a savory depth
• Mayonnaise for a creamy richness
• Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost

These extras can elevate your old fashioned salmon patties recipe and southern style salmon patties. They let you customize to your liking.

Preparing the Salmon

Creating grandma’s salmon patty or easy salmon cake recipe starts with the salmon. You can use canned salmon for ease or fresh fillets for a vibrant taste. Both are great in this recipe.

Using Canned Salmon

Canned salmon is a great pick for this recipe. It’s ready to go straight from the can. Just drain the liquid and flake the salmon into a bowl. You’ll need 1 ½ cups of cooked salmon, which is about 1-2 filets or three 4-ounce cans.

Fresh Salmon Alternatives

For a fresh taste, use a salmon fillet. Cook or bake it, then flake it into a bowl. Fresh salmon might need more binding, like an extra egg or panko breadcrumbs, to keep the patties together. This recipe makes 4 patties or 2 servings, so adjust as needed.

Both canned and fresh salmon are perfect for this easy salmon cake recipe. The important thing is to prepare and season the salmon well before mixing it into the patties.

Making the Patty Mixture

To make the perfect old fashioned salmon patties, start by mixing the flaked salmon with a few key ingredients. You’ll need to combine the salmon, crushed crackers, lightly beaten eggs, and seasonings. This mix brings out the flavor in the classic salmon cakes recipe.

Mixing the Ingredients

Begin by gently flaking the salmon, whether it’s canned or fresh, into a medium-sized bowl. Add about 1/2 cup of plain breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to help bind the mixture. Then, stir in one large, lightly beaten egg to hold the patty shape.

Seasoning Tips

• Start with a base of salt, pepper, and onion powder to season the salmon patty mixture.
• Experiment with additional flavors like dill, Old Bay seasoning, or lemon zest to customize the taste.
• Aim for a consistency that allows you to easily form patties that hold their shape well.

By carefully mixing and seasoning the salmon patty mixture, you’ll create a flavorful base. This will help make your crispy and delicious old fashioned salmon patties.

Forming the Patties

Making the perfect salmon patty is about getting the right mix and shape. Whether you’re making a classic retro salmon patty or a traditional one, here are some tips. They’ll help your patties be crisp and tasty every time.

Ideal Patty Size

Use a 1/2 cup measuring cup to scoop out the salmon mix for even sizes. Try to make patties that are about 4 inches wide and 1 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly.

Techniques for Shaping

• Use both hands to gently shape the salmon mix into round patties. Don’t press too hard, as this can make them dry and dense.
• Place the patties on a foil-lined plate or baking sheet. This makes them easy to move to the cooking area.
• If the mix is too wet, add crushed crackers to get the right consistency. If it’s too dry, a bit of lemon juice or canned salmon liquid can help.

By using these simple steps, you can make salmon patties that are just the right size and shape. They’re ready to be cooked to a crispy perfection. Try the classic retro salmon patty recipe or mix it up with new flavors.

Cooking Methods for Salmon Patties

There are a few ways to cook vintage salmon patties for a crispy and tasty result. You can choose between pan-frying or baking for a healthier option. Both methods will make your easy salmon cake recipe delicious every time.

Pan-Frying for Crispy Perfection

Pan-frying is the classic way to cook vintage salmon patties. Heat about 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the patties in the hot oil and fry for 8 minutes on the first side. Then, flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy.

This method gives a satisfying crunch on the outside and keeps the inside tender and flavorful.

Baking for a Healthier Approach

Baking is a lighter, guilt-free way to make easy salmon cake recipe. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the patties on the sheet and bake for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This method makes delicious, crispy vintage salmon patties without the extra oil of pan-frying.

Choosing any cooking method, your vintage salmon patties will be a hit! The key is to prepare the patties well and use quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.

“The secret to the best vintage salmon patties is in the cooking technique. Whether you pan-fry or bake, the result is always a crispy, delicious delight.”

Tips for Achieving Crispy Patties

To make crispy salmon patties or southern style salmon patties, pick the right oil and control the temperature. Here are some easy tips to get your salmon patties golden and crunchy every time.

Oil Selection

Choose an oil with a high smoke point for the best results. Options like peanut, vegetable, avocado, or canola oil work well. They can handle high temperatures without burning, helping your patties get crispy.

Temperature Control

• Ensure the oil is hot before adding the patties. If a drop of water sizzles, it’s ready.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. This can lower the oil temperature and make patties soggy. Cook in batches if needed.
• Keep the heat at medium-high throughout cooking. Adjust as needed to avoid burning and ensure crispiness.

By following these tips for oil and temperature, you’ll make crispy and delicious salmon patties. Your family and friends will love them.

Serving Suggestions

There are many ways to serve your tasty old fashioned salmon patties. They go well with different sides, making them a great choice for dinner.

Best Accompaniments

• Creamy Corn: The creamy corn’s smooth texture pairs well with the savory patties.
• Edamame Salad: A light edamame salad adds a refreshing crunch.
• Potato Casserole: The cheesy potato casserole is a comforting match.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a nice contrast.
• Cucumber Salad: A cucumber salad with a tangy dressing is refreshing.
• Refrigerator Pickles: Homemade pickles add a tangy crunch.

Dipping Sauces to Try

Try different dipping sauces to enhance your salmon patties. Here are some favorites:

1. Tartar Sauce: Adds a creamy, tangy flavor.
2. Tzatziki: Offers a cool, cucumber-based taste.
3. Remoulade: Brings a zesty, spicy kick.
4. Lemon Aioli: Adds a bright, creamy touch.

These patties are also great as sliders or in sandwiches. Serve them with a green salad or steamed veggies for a full meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Enjoying the easy salmon cake recipe or retro salmon patty recipe doesn’t have to end when the meal is over. You can enjoy those crispy, flavorful salmon patties for days with the right storage and reheating techniques.

Proper Storage Techniques

Keep your leftover salmon patties fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then put them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen patties stay good for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips

1. Microwave: Reheat the patties at 50% power, checking and stirring every minute until they’re hot.
2. Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Place patties on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed.
3. Air Fryer: For the crispiest results, reheat the patties in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat and gently reheat the patties, flipping occasionally, until heated through and crispy.

Choose any method you like, but thaw frozen patties in the fridge overnight before reheating. This ensures the best texture and flavor.

Common Variations to Try

Make your vintage or southern style salmon patties even better by trying new things. Add finely diced veggies like bell peppers, jalapeños, or celery for texture and taste. Fresh dill or parsley can also give your patties a nice herbal flavor.

For a spicy twist, season your patties with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Cajun seasoning. You can also change up the coating. Try panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy outside.

• Incorporate diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or celery for added texture and flavor.
• Enhance the aroma with fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
• Experiment with spices such as smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Cajun seasoning.
• Try using panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy exterior.
• Substitute canned tuna or crab meat for salmon to create different seafood patties.

This classic recipe is all about trying new things. By adding your own special touches, you can make salmon patties that are truly yours. Get creative and enjoy the delicious results.

“The great thing about this recipe is that it’s endlessly customizable. Have fun experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own!”

Conclusion

Recap of Benefits

Old Fashioned Salmon Patties are a tasty and affordable meal. They’re quick to make and can be tailored to different tastes. This makes them great for using up pantry items or leftover salmon.

Encouragement to Try the Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish or a new family favorite, try this old fashioned salmon patties recipe. It has a crispy outside and a juicy inside. It’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give these classic salmon cakes a shot and enjoy the yummy outcome.

Try making these at home and explore more delicious dessert recipes on our dessert category.