old fashioned salmon patties recipe with crackers

Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe With Crackers

Bytastora recipes

The smell of sizzling salmon patties was a comforting scent in our home. These classic old-fashioned salmon cakes were made with simple ingredients like canned salmon and crushed Ritz crackers. They were a staple in our family’s meals.

The crispy, golden-brown outsides and tender, flavorful insides were always a hit. They satisfied our taste buds and nourished our bodies.

In this recipe, we explore the timeless charm of these vintage fishcakes. We’ll look at the essential ingredients, how to prepare them, and how to serve them. Whether you’re a fan or new to this recipe, get ready to enjoy the nostalgic flavors and make a new family favorite.

Key Takeaways

  • Canned salmon is the main ingredient, making this recipe easy and accessible
  • Ritz crackers provide a delightful crunch and binding agent for the patties
  • Frying the patties in hot oil results in a crispy, golden-brown exterior
  • Versatile seasoning options allow for customization to suit your taste preferences
  • Serving suggestions include classic sides and sauces to elevate the dish

Introduction to Traditional Salmon Patties

Salmon patties, also known as salmon cakes or salmon fritters, are a beloved classic dish. They bring back memories for many. These savory, pan-fried delights are quick and easy to make.

Whether using fresh or canned salmon, these patties are comforting and satisfying. They offer a delicious meal.

Why These Patties Are a Beloved Classic

Salmon patties have been a staple in American cuisine for generations. They are passed down from grandmothers and cherished as a taste of the past. Their simplicity, versatility, and comforting flavors make them a favorite.

The combination of tender salmon, crisp breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings creates a satisfying dish. It warms the soul.

Benefits of Using Canned Salmon

One of the great advantages of salmon patties is their ability to be made with canned salmon. This affordable and convenient protein source makes them accessible to many households. Canned salmon is budget-friendly and offers health benefits like omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

The Perfect Comfort Food Solution

Salmon patties are the ultimate comfort food. Their simple preparation and familiar flavors make them a go-to meal. They are perfect when you’re craving something warm, comforting, and satisfying.

Whether served alongside mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or your favorite side dish, these patties are the perfect solution. They offer a nostalgic and nourishing meal.

“Salmon patties are a taste of childhood that never gets old. They’re easy to make, budget-friendly, and always hit the spot when you’re in the mood for a comforting, classic meal.”

Essential Ingredients for Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe With Crackers

Making the perfect crunchy cracker-coated salmon croquettes or easy crackers-crusted salmon cakes begins with the right ingredients. Start with canned salmon, preferably wild-caught, for the main protein and flavor. Use Ritz crackers or saltines to add a crunchy exterior.

Other key ingredients include:

  • Eggs to bind the mixture
  • Onions for a savory taste
  • Seasonings like dill weed and Cajun spice to boost flavor

Mayonnaise adds extra flavor and moisture. Fresh herbs like dill and parsley enhance the aroma and taste. A bit of lemon zest or Dijon mustard can also enrich the salmon’s flavor.

IngredientAmount
Canned salmon (wild-caught)14.75 ounces
Saltine crackers1 sleeve, divided
Eggs2
Onion, finely chopped1/2 cup
Dill weed2 teaspoons
Cajun seasoning2 teaspoons
Mayonnaise2/3 cup

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make delicious crunchy cracker-coated salmon croquettes or easy crackers-crusted salmon cakes. They’re sure to impress your taste buds.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the perfect salmon patty recipe, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. A large mixing bowl is key for mixing the ingredients and shaping the patties. You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons to get the right amounts of salmon and cracker crumbs.

A skillet or frying pan is essential for cooking the salmon patty mixture. It should be crispy and golden on the outside. A cast-iron skillet is best because it heats evenly. A flexible spatula is also useful for flipping the patties.

Essential Cooking Tools

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Skillet or frying pan (cast-iron preferred)
  • Flexible spatula

Optional Equipment for Easier Preparation

A food processor can make crushing crackers into fine crumbs easier. This is important for binding the salmon patties. A meat thermometer is also useful. It helps ensure the patties are cooked to 165°F (74°C).

  • Food processor
  • Meat thermometer

Best Pans for Frying

For frying salmon patty mixture, a cast-iron skillet is the best choice. It heats evenly and keeps heat well. This ensures the patties are crispy on the outside. A non-stick skillet is also good, making it easier to flip and remove the patties.

Preparing the Salmon and Cracker Mixture

To make classic old-fashioned salmon patties, start by draining the canned salmon. Remove any bones that may be present. Gently flake the salmon into a mixing bowl, breaking it up into smaller chunks.

Next, crush your saltine crackers or preferred cracker variety to a coarse breadcrumb-like consistency. Add them to the salmon mixture.

In a separate bowl, lightly beat a few eggs. Combine them with the salmon and cracker blend. This binding ingredient will help hold your patties together during cooking. For added flavor, finely chop some onions and stir them into the mixture. Season the salmon and cracker combination with your choice of spices, such as Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, or ground black pepper.

Some recipes suggest lightly sautéing the onions or other vegetables before adding them to the salmon mixture. This step can enhance the overall depth of flavor in your salmon patties. However, the basic combination of canned salmon, crushed crackers, eggs, and seasonings is a tried-and-true method that delivers delicious results.

  1. Drain canned salmon and remove any bones.
  2. Flake the salmon into a mixing bowl.
  3. Crush saltine crackers or preferred crackers to a coarse breadcrumb consistency.
  4. Add the crushed crackers to the salmon mixture.
  5. In a separate bowl, lightly beat a few eggs.
  6. Combine the beaten eggs with the salmon and cracker blend.
  7. Finely chop onions and stir them into the mixture.
  8. Season the salmon and cracker combination with your choice of spices, such as Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, or ground black pepper.
IngredientQuantity
Canned salmon1 (14.75 oz) can
Saltine crackers1 cup, crushed
Eggs2 large, lightly beaten
Onion1/2 cup, finely chopped
Worcestershire sauce1 tablespoon
Old Bay seasoning1 teaspoon (optional)
Ground black pepper1/4 teaspoon

With the salmon and cracker mixture prepared, you’re well on your way to creating delicious old-fashioned salmon patties. The next step is to shape the mixture into perfectly formed patties, ready for pan-frying.

salmon patty preparation

Step-by-Step Mixing and Forming Process

Making the perfect salmon patty begins with mixing all the ingredients well. Make sure the mix is even, so the flavors blend well. Eggs and mayonnaise help the salmon patties stay together when fried.

For even sizes, use a 1/3 or 1/2 cup to shape the mix into patties. Shape them gently to keep their form. For a crispy outside, coat them with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs. Chill them in the fridge for 30 minutes to keep their shape while frying.

Proper Binding Techniques

  • Eggs and mayonnaise are great binders for the salmon patty mix.
  • Mixing well ensures the binders are spread evenly.
  • Adjust the binder amount based on the salmon’s moisture to prevent falling apart.

Shaping Perfect Patties

  1. Use a 1/3 or 1/2 cup to scoop and shape the mix into patties.
  2. Be gentle when shaping to avoid breaking the patties.
  3. Chill the patties for 30 minutes to keep them firm during frying.

Coating Methods for Crispy Exterior

Coating the salmon patties with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs adds a nice crunch. This step makes the outside crispy and the inside tender and flavorful.

Coating MaterialSuggested Quantity
Crushed Saltine Crackers1/2 to 1 cup
Panko Breadcrumbs1/2 to 1 cup

“The key to mouthwatering salmon patties is in the binding and shaping process. With the right techniques, you can achieve a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior every time.”

Frying Techniques and Temperature Tips

Learning to fry salmon patties right is key to getting a crispy outside and a juicy inside. Here are some top tips for your salmon patty frying methods:

First, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. It’s ready when a wooden spoon makes gentle bubbles or a water droplet sizzles. Carefully add the salmon patties to the hot oil, making sure not to fill the pan too much. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown.

It’s important to keep the perfect temperature for fish cakes. If the patties brown too fast, lower the heat to medium-low. This helps prevent the outside from burning before the inside is cooked. If they’re taking too long, raise the heat a bit. The patties should be fully cooked at 145°F.

StatisticValue
Yields6 salmon patties (approximately 1/2 inch thick)
Calories per Patty89 (without yogurt topping)
Cooking Time5-6 minutes total in a skillet
Refrigeration
  • Uncooked patties: up to 1 day
  • Cooked patties: up to 2 days
FreezingCooked patties can be frozen for up to 3 weeks
Nutrition
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g

By using these salmon patty frying methods and keeping the perfect temperature for fish cakes, you’ll make delicious, golden salmon patties. Your family and guests will love them.

Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments

Make your old-fashioned salmon patties even better with classic side dishes and tasty sauces. These fish cakes are a comfort food dream. The right sides and sauces can elevate them.

Classic Side Dishes

Try creamy creamed corn, buttery potato casserole, or fresh coleslaw as sides. For a bigger meal, serve the patties on brioche buns for a salmon burger. Or, place them on a crisp salad green for a lighter dish.

Sauce Pairings

A good sauce is key for salmon patties. Choose from tartar sauce, dill sauce, or tangy remoulade. For a spicy twist, use spicy pickly mayo with hot sauce, pickle juice, and more.

Garnishing Ideas

Add a fresh touch with lemon wedges, dill, or parsley. These garnishes not only look good but also boost the flavor.

Pair your salmon patties with these sides, sauces, and garnishes for a delicious meal. It’s a celebration of comfort food flavors.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Enjoy the delightful storing salmon patties or reheating fish cakes with these easy tips. After a feast of homemade salmon patties, you might have leftovers. Don’t worry! Storing and reheating them is easy.

To store leftovers, place cooked salmon patties in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for 3-4 days. This way, you can enjoy the flavors again later. When you’re ready, there are a few ways to reheat:

  1. Microwave: For a quick option, reheat patties in the microwave at half power. Check them every minute to avoid overcooking.
  2. Oven: For a crisper texture, reheat patties in a 300°F oven for 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to keep moisture in.

You can also get creative with leftover salmon patties. Use them in salads or sandwiches for a flavor boost. No matter how you store or reheat, these salmon patties will always delight your taste buds.

“Storing and reheating salmon patties is a breeze – just a few simple steps to enjoy the leftovers!”

storing salmon patties

Conclusion

Homemade salmon patties are a great mix of old and new. They’re easy on the wallet and full of flavor. This recipe is a classic that everyone loves.

The ingredients like canned salmon, breadcrumbs, and eggs come together perfectly. When pan-fried, they get a crispy outside and a soft inside. Serve them with mashed potatoes or grits for a true comfort food experience.

These patties are perfect for anyone wanting to make a dish like grandma used to make. They’re also great for adding healthy seafood to your meals. Enjoy them as a main dish, appetizer, or even in sliders and wraps. Making homemade salmon patties is a simple way to bring comfort to your table.

FAQ

What are the key ingredients in old fashioned salmon patties?

Old fashioned salmon patties have a few key ingredients. They include canned salmon, preferably wild-caught. You also need Ritz crackers or saltines, eggs, onions, and seasonings like dill weed and Cajun spice. Mayo is added for binding and extra flavor.

Why are salmon patties considered a nostalgic and comforting meal?

Salmon patties bring back childhood memories for many. They are easy to make, affordable, and have a classic taste. This makes them a comforting choice for many people.

What equipment is needed to make old fashioned salmon patties?

You’ll need a large mixing bowl, measuring cups, and a skillet for frying. A food processor helps with crushing crackers. A spatula is essential for flipping the patties. Optional tools include a meat thermometer and a cast-iron skillet for a crispy exterior.

How do you prepare the salmon and cracker mixture for the patties?

Start by draining the canned salmon and removing bones. Flake the salmon into a bowl. Crush the crackers into coarse breadcrumbs. Mix the salmon, crushed crackers, eggs, onions, and seasonings together.

What is the best way to fry the salmon patties?

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. The oil is ready when it bubbles or a water droplet sizzles. Fry the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan and adjust the heat as needed.

How can you serve and store leftover salmon patties?

Serve the patties with sides like creamed corn, potato casserole, or coleslaw. Try them with tartar sauce, dill sauce, or remoulade. Add lemon wedges, fresh dill, or parsley for garnish. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave at half power or in a 300°F oven for 15-20 minutes.