Southern Salmon Patties

Ingredients:

2 fresh, skinless salmon fillets: Fresh salmon is the star of this dish, providing a rich, flavorful base for the patties. Removing the skin ensures a smooth texture in the final product.
1/2 small onion, grated: Grated onion adds a subtle sweetness and moisture to the patties, helping to keep them tender and flavorful.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds a creamy texture and richness to the mixture, helping to bind the ingredients together.
1 egg, beaten: The egg acts as a binder, holding the patties together during cooking.
2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning: Old Bay seasoning is a classic spice blend that adds a zesty, savory flavor to the patties, enhancing the natural taste of the salmon.
15 saltine crackers, crushed to crumbs: Crushed saltine crackers provide a crunchy texture and help to bind the patties, adding a bit of a savory, salty flavor.
1/2 cup vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is used for frying the patties, giving them a golden, crispy exterior.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salmon:

Begin by finely chopping the fresh, skinless salmon fillets. You can also pulse the salmon briefly in a food processor, but be careful not to over-process it. You want the salmon to have a slightly chunky texture.
Place the chopped salmon in a large mixing bowl.

2. Mix the Ingredients:

Add the grated onion, mayonnaise, beaten egg, and Old Bay seasoning to the bowl with the salmon. Mix everything together until well combined.
Next, add the crushed saltine crackers to the mixture. Stir until the crackers are evenly distributed throughout the mixture, helping to bind the ingredients together.

3. Form the Patties:

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about the size of a hamburger patty. The mixture should make approximately 6-8 patties, depending on the size you prefer.

4. Fry the Patties:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when a small piece of the mixture is dropped into it.
Carefully place the salmon patties into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside.

5. Drain and Serve:

Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve the salmon patties hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips and Variations:

Alternative Binders: If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute the saltine crackers with gluten-free crackers or even almond flour.
Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the salmon mixture.
Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives can be added to the mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
Bake Instead of Fry: If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can bake the patties instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Serving Suggestions:

Southern Salmon Patties are versatile and can be served in many ways:

With Sides: Serve them alongside classic Southern sides like collard greens, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a comforting meal.
On a Bun: Place the patties on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce for a delicious salmon burger.
As an Appetizer: Make smaller patties and serve them as appetizers with a dipping sauce like remoulade or aioli.

Southern Salmon Patties are a delightful way to enjoy fresh salmon in a comforting and flavorful dish. With their crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, these patties are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you serve them as a main dish, a sandwich, or an appetizer, they’re a versatile and satisfying option that everyone will love. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a taste of Southern comfort at your dinner table!