Description
This Southern Salmon Croquettes recipe offers a quick and delicious way to enjoy canned salmon. These crispy, golden patties feature a flavorful mix of onion, bell pepper, and spices, lightly coated in breadcrumbs and pan-fried to perfection. Ideal for a comforting lunch or dinner, they pair wonderfully with dipping sauces or classic Southern sides like grits.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 14 ounces canned salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 egg
- 1 cup breadcrumbs, divided (½ cup for mix, ½ cup for coating)
- ¼ cup finely diced onion
- ¼ cup finely diced bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup vegetable or canola oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon: Drain the canned salmon thoroughly, removing any skin or bones. Flake the salmon into a mixing bowl.
- Add vegetables and seasonings: Mix in the finely diced onion, bell pepper, chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
- Combine with egg and breadcrumbs: Add the egg and half of the breadcrumbs (½ cup) to the salmon mixture. Stir well until combined. If the mixture feels too wet to form patties, gradually add more breadcrumbs.
- Form patties: Shape the mixture into 8 small, evenly sized patties, ensuring they hold together well.
- Coat the patties: Press each patty into the remaining breadcrumbs (½ cup) to coat both sides evenly for a crispy exterior.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable or canola oil into a skillet to a depth of about ¼ inch and heat over medium heat until shimmering.
- Fry the croquettes: Fry the croquettes in batches, cooking each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain even cooking.
- Drain excess oil: Transfer the cooked croquettes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- Serve warm: Serve the salmon croquettes warm with your favorite dipping sauce or traditional Southern sides such as grits for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Ensure the canned salmon is well drained to prevent soggy patties.
- Adjust breadcrumbs as needed to achieve a firm but moist mixture.
- Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor or substitute dried parsley if unavailable.
- For a healthier option, consider shallow pan frying with less oil or baking croquettes at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until crispy.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, as croquettes can lose crispness when refrigerated.
