EASY Southern Salmon Croquettes Recipe – Fried Salmon Patties

Southern-style salmon croquettes are a timeless comfort food, offering a crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful interior. These golden-brown patties are a simple and budget-friendly dish, made from canned salmon, a mix of savory seasonings, and a perfect balance of textures. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, this recipe offers the quintessential southern taste that will transport your taste buds straight to the South.

This easy-to-make dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. The blend of ingredients like sweet onion, red bell pepper, and cilantro brings out the fresh, savory flavors, while the golden coating provides a satisfying crunch. You can also customize the flavors according to your preferences by adjusting the seasonings. Best of all, these salmon croquettes are quick to prepare, requiring just a few simple steps. Serve them alongside a tangy dipping sauce or with your favorite vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re in need of a delicious yet simple meal.

2. Affordable Ingredients

With just a can of salmon, some basic pantry staples, and a few fresh vegetables, this dish is both budget-friendly and packed with flavor.

3. Customizable

Feel free to add your favorite spices or ingredients to make the croquettes your own. You can try using different herbs, vegetables, or even substitute the mayo for a healthier option.

4. Perfect for Leftovers

These croquettes can be made in advance and stored for later, making them an excellent option for meal prep or for feeding a crowd.

5. Crispy and Flavorful

The combination of flour, cornmeal, and a touch of mayonnaise gives these croquettes a satisfying crunch on the outside while maintaining a moist, tender interior.

Ingredients

• Flour
• Yellow cornmeal
• Canned salmon
• Red bell pepper, finely chopped
• Sweet onion, diced
• Large egg, beaten
• Worcestershire sauce
• Seasoned salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Mayonnaise
• Cilantro, chopped
• Olive oil for frying

Variations

• Spicy Croquettes: Add a chopped jalapeño or some hot sauce to give your salmon croquettes a spicy kick.
• Herb-infused: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme for an added burst of flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the salmon with mashed chickpeas for a vegetarian take on this recipe.
• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for an extra creamy texture.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the flour and cornmeal for a gluten-free blend to make these croquettes suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned salmon, finely chopped red bell pepper, diced sweet onion, and cilantro. Break apart the salmon with a fork until it’s well mixed with the vegetables.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

In the same bowl, stir in the flour, cornmeal, seasoned salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything until it’s evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, and mayonnaise. Stir everything together until the mixture comes together as a sticky dough.

Step 4: Form the Croquettes

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.

Step 5: Fry the Croquettes

Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the patties to the pan. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the croquettes hot with your favorite dipping sauce, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Make sure the oil is hot before adding the patties to the pan. This ensures that they cook evenly and get that crispy exterior.
• If the mixture feels too wet to form into patties, add a little more flour or cornmeal to help bind it together.
• You can use fresh salmon instead of canned for a fresher taste, just be sure to cook it first and flake it into small pieces.
• To make your croquettes extra crispy, you can lightly coat them in flour or cornmeal before frying.

How to Serve

Southern salmon croquettes are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a creamy coleslaw, some freshly steamed vegetables, or a simple garden salad. You can also add a dipping sauce like tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a zesty homemade remoulade for extra flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salmon croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side to crisp them up.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooked and cooled croquettes on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze them for 2-3 hours. Once frozen, transfer the croquettes to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 1 month. Reheat by baking in the oven or frying them again until golden and crispy.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated croquettes in a hot skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until they are warmed through and crispy on the outside.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh salmon! Just cook and flake it before mixing it with the other ingredients.

2. Can I make the croquettes without mayo?

Yes, you can substitute the mayo with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even a bit of olive oil for a lighter option.

3. How do I make these croquettes gluten-free?

Simply swap the flour and cornmeal with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.

4. Can I bake the salmon croquettes instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they get crispy.

5. What can I serve these croquettes with?

These croquettes go great with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a tangy dipping sauce like tartar or cocktail sauce.

6. How do I make these croquettes spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture for a bit of heat.

7. Can I freeze salmon croquettes?

Yes, you can freeze the croquettes after frying and reheat them later for a quick meal.

8. What kind of oil should I use for frying?

Olive oil works well, but you can also use vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer.

9. Can I use other vegetables in the croquettes?

Absolutely! You can add chopped celery, carrots, or even spinach for additional flavor and texture.

10. How do I know when the croquettes are done?

The croquettes are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the interior is fully heated through.

Conclusion

These Southern salmon croquettes are a flavorful and easy way to enjoy a classic dish with minimal effort. With a crispy exterior and a tender, savory interior, they’re perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight meal to a special family gathering. By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy this beloved Southern comfort food in no time. Whether served with your favorite sides or on their own, these croquettes will surely become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

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