If you’ve ever craved a comforting, nostalgic dish that brings together simplicity with heartwarming flavor, then you are going to absolutely love this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe. These patties are tender, perfectly seasoned, and have a delightful crispy crust that makes every bite a joy. Made from pantry staples and bursting with savory goodness, this recipe captures the charm of classic home cooking that never goes out of style.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe is in its straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding moisture, texture, or a pop of flavor, making sure every patty is perfectly balanced.
- Pink salmon (1 can, 14.75 ounces): The heart of the dish, providing rich, flaky protein and that distinctive seafood taste.
- All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): Helps bind the mixture for patties that hold their shape without being heavy.
- Saltine crackers (10, crushed): Adds light crunch and absorbs moisture to make the patties tender but sturdy.
- Yellow mustard (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle tang that brightens the flavors without overpowering.
- Large egg (1, well beaten): Acts as a binder to keep the patties together while you cook.
- Buttermilk (1 tablespoon): Introduces creaminess and a mild acidity that balances the salmon.
- Finely diced onion (1/4 cup): Infuses the patties with a gentle savory bite that complements the fish.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors, making each ingredient sing.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a touch of warmth and mild spice to round out the taste.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Provides a neutral frying medium to crisp the patties without masking their flavor.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Brings richness and golden crust as the patties cook to perfection.
How to Make Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Base
Start by draining the canned pink salmon thoroughly. If you prefer, you can remove the skin and any bones, though most of the bones are soft and barely noticeable. Add the salmon to a large mixing bowl where all the magic begins.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
To the salmon, add the flour, crushed saltine crackers, yellow mustard, beaten egg, buttermilk, diced onion, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are just combined. Then let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes—this helps the crackers soak up moisture and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Using about a quarter cup of the mixture per patty, shape them evenly with your hands. You should get approximately eight patties with the given quantity. Pop these patties into the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to firm up, which makes frying a breeze.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat the vegetable oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding, allowing 4 to 5 minutes per side. Fry until each side is golden brown and crisp. Once cooked, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve these warm, and get ready to fall in love!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate the humble salmon patties into a vibrant meal. Try topping with a dollop of tangy tartar sauce, a squeeze of lemon, or sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill for a burst of color and herbaceous flavor.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, crisp coleslaw, or a simple green salad complement the patties beautifully. For a lighter option, steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus add freshness and balance to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling adventurous, serve your salmon patties nestled in soft slider buns with lettuce, tomato, and a smear of aioli for a fun twist. They also work perfectly crumbled over a bed of quinoa or tossed into a hearty grain bowl for a nourishing lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salmon patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and are ready to be cooked straight from frozen.
Reheating
Reheat cooked salmon patties gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve their crispy exterior.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh, cooked salmon can be used but you may need to adjust the amount of binder and seasoning since fresh fish tends to be moister. Make sure to finely flake the salmon before mixing.
Is it necessary to remove the skin and bones from canned salmon?
Not necessarily. The skin softens during cooking and blends well into the patties, and the small bones add calcium and soften enough that they’re barely noticeable, but you can remove them if you prefer.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, plain milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar added will work as a simple substitute. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to thicken and add acidity.
How do I make these patties gluten-free?
Try using gluten-free crackers and a gluten-free flour alternative such as almond or rice flour to keep the patties binding well without gluten.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a great option for a lighter version. Arrange the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser that brings comfort food vibes with every bite. I encourage you to gather those simple ingredients and give it a try—it’s an effortless way to enjoy a protein-packed, satisfying meal with a delightful crunch. Enjoy making this timeless classic part of your recipe collection!
Print
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties made with canned pink salmon, mixed with simple pantry ingredients and pan-fried to golden perfection. These crispy, tender patties are perfect for a quick, hearty meal and serve wonderfully with a side salad or on a bun as a sandwich.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (14.75-ounce) can pink salmon
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 10 saltine crackers, crushed
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 large egg, well beaten
- 1 tablespoon buttermilk
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Drain the canned pink salmon carefully. You may remove the skin and bones if you prefer, but many find the small bones soft and unnoticeable in the patties. Add the salmon to a large mixing bowl.
- Mix Ingredients: To the bowl with salmon, add all-purpose flour, crushed saltine crackers, yellow mustard, beaten egg, buttermilk, finely diced onion, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes to allow the crackers to absorb moisture and bind better.
- Form Patties: Using about 1/4 cup of the salmon mixture, shape into individual patties by hand. This recipe should yield approximately 8 patties. Place the formed patties in the refrigerator and chill for 15 to 20 minutes to help them firm up, making them easier to cook.
- Cook Patties: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and unsalted butter over medium heat. In batches to avoid overcrowding, cook the patties until browned and crisp on each side, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove patties and drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm.
Notes
- Removing skin and bones is optional as the bones are soft and edible, adding calcium.
- Chilling the patties before cooking helps them hold together better while frying.
- Use a combination of oil and butter to enhance flavor and prevent burning.
- Serve with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
