Grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties recipe was always the highlight of our family gatherings. I can still remember the comforting aroma of those golden-brown patties sizzling in the skillet, and the way they’d practically melt in your mouth with each delicious bite. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and it never fails to transport me back to those cozy kitchen memories of my childhood.
My grandma would spend hours carefully prepping the ingredients, mixing the salmon with just the right blend of seasonings and breadcrumbs to create the perfect texture. She’d form each pattie with such precision, making sure they were the ideal thickness to achieve that satisfying crunch on the outside and tender, flaky interior. And when she’d serve them up, piping hot, with a dollop of her famous tartar sauce on the side, it was like pure comfort food heaven.
Even now, whenever I make grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties recipe, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. It’s more than just a dish – it’s a treasured family tradition that connects me to my roots. And I’m thrilled to be able to share this beloved recipe with you, so you can experience that same feeling of comfort and joy in your own kitchen.
Why This Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
If you’re a salmon lover like me, then you’re going to absolutely adore this old fashioned salmon patties recipe. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, with a crispy, golden-brown exterior that gives way to a tender, flaky interior. But what really sets this recipe apart is the special technique my grandma used to achieve that signature texture and taste.
The Secret Behind Perfect old fashioned salmon patties recipe
The key is in the way you prepare the salmon before forming the patties. Rather than just using canned salmon, grandma would always insist on starting with fresh, high-quality fillets. She’d carefully poach them in a flavorful broth, infusing the fish with an extra depth of flavor. Then, she’d gently flake the salmon with a fork, being mindful not to break it down too much. This ensured that each pattie would have those delightful, chunky bites of salmon throughout.
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Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Enjoy the classic taste of old fashioned salmon patties made from scratch. These tender, flavorful patties are a delicious and easy-to-prepare main dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
– 15 oz canned salmon, drained and flaked
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking
Instructions
1. – In a medium bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, onion, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
2. – Form the mixture into patties, about 3-4 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick.
3. – Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the salmon patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. – Serve the old fashioned salmon patties hot, garnished with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley or dill to the patty mixture. These patties can also be baked at 400°F for 15-20 minutes instead of pan-frying.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Main Courses
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Another secret weapon in grandma’s arsenal? Her special blend of seasonings. She’d add just the right amount of dill, lemon, and a touch of garlic to really make the salmon shine. And of course, she’d never skimp on the breadcrumbs, using just enough to bind the patties together without making them dense or heavy.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Fresh salmon fillets: The heart and soul of this recipe. Look for high-quality, sustainably-sourced salmon for the best flavor and texture.
– Breadcrumbs: Grandma always used a mix of panko and regular breadcrumbs to achieve the perfect crispy exterior.
– Egg: This helps bind the patties together and adds a bit of richness.
– Dill: Fresh or dried, this herb adds a lovely, aromatic flavor to the salmon.
– Lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the dish and complements the salmon beautifully.
– Garlic powder: Just a hint of garlic enhances the overall savory profile.
– Salt and pepper: To season the patties and bring out all the flavors.
Step-by-Step old fashioned salmon patties recipe Instructions
Preparing Your old fashioned salmon patties recipe
This old fashioned salmon patties recipe is surprisingly easy to make, and the results are utterly delicious. It takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish, and the hands-on prep time is minimal. You’ll need a few basic kitchen tools, like a skillet, mixing bowl, and spatula, but that’s about it.
1- Start by poaching the salmon fillets in a simmering broth or water for about 8-10 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Drain the salmon and let it cool slightly, then use a fork to gently break it into chunky flakes.
2- In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon with the breadcrumbs, egg, dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until well-incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
3- Scoop the salmon mixture and form it into patties, about 3-4 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet as you go.
4- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a couple tablespoons of oil. When the oil is shimmering, carefully add the salmon patties to the pan, working in batches if needed to avoid crowding.
5- Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden-brown and crispy on the outside. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
6- Transfer the cooked salmon patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot, with a dollop of tartar sauce or lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
– For the best texture, be sure not to overmix the salmon mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.
– Chilling the formed patties in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking can help them hold their shape better.
– Use a nonstick skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even browning and crisping.
– If the patties are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium to prevent burning.
Serving and Storing Your old fashioned salmon patties recipe
Perfect Pairings for old fashioned salmon patties recipe
These old fashioned salmon patties are the ultimate comfort food, and they pair beautifully with all sorts of side dishes. A simple green salad or steamed veggies make a refreshing accompaniment. Or, for a more indulgent meal, serve them with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious tartar sauce.
And don’t forget the drinks! A crisp white wine or a cold, fizzy lemonade are both excellent choices to balance out the richness of the salmon patties. Or, for a cozy evening in, a hot cup of tea or coffee would be the perfect pairing.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover salmon patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side, or bake them in a 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
You can also make the salmon patty mixture in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking. This makes for a super quick and easy weeknight meal. Just form the patties and cook them right before serving.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for old fashioned salmon patties recipe
Creative old fashioned salmon patties recipe Variations
While grandma’s classic old fashioned salmon patties recipe is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try adding a bit of diced onion or bell pepper to the mix for extra flavor and texture. Or, swap out the dill for fresh parsley or chives.
For a spicy twist, stir in a teaspoon or two of Dijon mustard or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You could even top the cooked patties with a dollop of homemade tartar sauce or a zesty remoulade.
And don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, too. Panko, whole wheat, or even crushed crackers can all work beautifully in this recipe.
Making old fashioned salmon patties recipe Diet-Friendly
To make this old fashioned salmon patties recipe a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few easy swaps you can try. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts instead. And for a low-carb option, you can skip the breadcrumbs altogether and bind the patties with beaten egg or almond flour.
If you’re looking to cut down on calories, you can bake the salmon patties instead of frying them. Just brush them lightly with oil and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
No matter how you choose to adapt this recipe, the key is to focus on the quality of the salmon and the perfect blend of seasonings. That’s what really makes this old fashioned salmon patties recipe shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
A: While canned salmon will work in a pinch, I really recommend using fresh salmon fillets for the best texture and flavor in this recipe. The poaching step helps infuse the fish with more moisture and richness.
Q: How do I know when the salmon patties are done cooking?
A: The patties should be golden-brown and crispy on the outside, and feel firm to the touch. You can also check by gently flaking one open – the interior should be cooked through and flaky.
Q: Can I freeze the salmon patties?
A: Absolutely! Cooked salmon patties freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to an airtight container or ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat them directly from frozen in the oven or skillet.
Q: How many salmon patties does this recipe make?
A: This recipe will yield about 8-10 salmon patties, depending on how large you shape them. They’re fairly filling, so I’d recommend planning for 2-3 patties per serving.
Q: Help! My salmon patties are falling apart. What did I do wrong?
A: If your patties are having trouble holding their shape, it’s likely that you either didn’t use enough breadcrumbs or you overmixed the mixture. Next time, try adding an extra tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs, and be very gentle when combining the ingredients.
Conclusion
There’s just something so comforting and nostalgic about grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties recipe. The crispy exterior, the tender, flaky salmon, and that irresistible blend of flavors – it’s a dish that transports me right back to my childhood every time I take a bite.
I hope this recipe brings that same sense of joy and satisfaction to your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, these salmon patties are sure to be a hit. So give it a try, and let me know what you think! I’d love to hear all about your experience and any fun variations you come up with.
Happy cooking, my friends!