EASY Southern Salmon Croquettes Recipe – Fried Salmon Patties

Southern-style salmon croquettes are a beloved dish in many households. These golden, crispy fried patties are packed with flavor and perfect for a quick meal or a comforting snack. Made with canned salmon, finely chopped red bell pepper, onions, and a blend of seasonings, these croquettes are deliciously crispy on the outside while staying tender and flavorful on the inside.

A classic Southern recipe, these croquettes offer a simple, affordable way to enjoy the rich flavor of salmon. The addition of Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and seasoned salt adds depth, while the cornmeal gives the patties a satisfying crunch. Whether served with a side of coleslaw, some tartar sauce for dipping, or just on their own, these croquettes make a perfect family meal or party appetizer. Easy to prepare and sure to satisfy, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Simple

This recipe is easy to follow and comes together in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.

2. Crispy and Flavorful

The combination of flour and cornmeal gives these croquettes a golden, crispy crust, while the inside remains tender and packed with flavor.

3. Budget-Friendly

Made with canned salmon, this recipe is an affordable way to enjoy the taste of fish without breaking the bank.

4. Versatile

Serve these croquettes with a variety of sides such as coleslaw, greens, or fried potatoes, or enjoy them on their own with your favorite dipping sauce.

5. Great for Meal Prep

These croquettes store well, making them a fantastic option for meal prepping. You can fry them ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and reheat them later for an easy lunch or dinner.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

For the Croquettes

• Flour
• Yellow cornmeal
• Canned salmon
• Red bell pepper (finely chopped)
• Sweet onion (diced)
• Large egg (beaten)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Seasoned salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Mayonnaise
• Fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Olive oil (for frying)

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables such as finely chopped celery or grated carrots for extra flavor and crunch.
• Spicy Croquettes: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
• Lemon Zest: Add some lemon zest to the mixture to give the croquettes a fresh, zesty twist that complements the rich flavor of the salmon.
• Baked Version: If you prefer not to fry the croquettes, bake them at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Open and drain the canned salmon. Flake the salmon with a fork, removing any bones or skin. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine the salmon with the flour, cornmeal, finely chopped red bell pepper, diced onion, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, pepper, garlic powder, mayonnaise, and chopped cilantro. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Form the Croquettes

Using your hands, shape the salmon mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Press gently to ensure the mixture sticks together and forms a nice, round shape.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat about 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking.

Step 4: Fry the Croquettes

Carefully place the croquettes in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook the croquettes in batches if necessary.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once the croquettes are golden and crispy, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with a side of tartar sauce, coleslaw, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chill the Mixture: If the croquette mixture feels too loose, refrigerate it for about 15 minutes before forming the patties. This will help the mixture firm up and make it easier to shape.
• Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is heated to the right temperature. If it’s too hot, the croquettes will burn on the outside before cooking through. If it’s not hot enough, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Flip Carefully: Use a spatula to flip the croquettes gently so they don’t break apart in the skillet.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the croquettes in batches to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy all over.

How to Serve

These Southern salmon croquettes are great on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Serve them with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, greens, or fried okra. They also make an excellent topping for a salad or a sandwich filling when placed in a soft bun with your favorite condiments. Don’t forget a side of tartar sauce, hot sauce, or even a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet with a little oil to restore their crispy texture.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooled croquettes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the croquettes at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, fry them in a little oil for a couple of minutes to re-crisp the exterior.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, you can use cooked fresh salmon. Just flake it and ensure it’s fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients.

2. Can I bake these croquettes instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the croquettes at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, for a healthier alternative.

3. Can I make these croquettes without mayo?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a different texture and flavor.

4. How can I prevent the croquettes from falling apart?

Make sure the mixture is well-mixed and firm enough to hold together. If needed, chill the mixture for 15 minutes to help it set before forming the patties.

5. Can I use a different type of oil?

You can use any type of oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil.

6. Can I add more vegetables to the croquettes?

Yes, feel free to add finely chopped celery, carrots, or zucchini to the mixture for added texture and nutrition.

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

The croquettes are done when they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. You can check the inside by cutting one open to ensure it is heated through.

8. How do I make the croquettes spicier?

For a spicier version, add finely chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the mixture.

9. Can I freeze the uncooked croquettes?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked croquettes. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.

10. Can I make these croquettes ahead of time?

You can prepare the croquettes and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out.

Conclusion

These Southern Salmon Croquettes are the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and flavorful. With simple ingredients and quick prep time, they’re an easy go-to recipe that will satisfy your cravings for a delicious fish dish. Whether you’re enjoying them for lunch, dinner, or as a snack, these croquettes are guaranteed to be a hit. Serve them with your favorite sides and dipping sauces, and enjoy a taste of Southern comfort in every bite!

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