Grandma’s Simple Salmon Patties

Grandma’s Simple Salmon Patties

A classic, old-fashioned salmon patty recipe: crispy and golden on the outside, tender and flavorful inside. It’s inexpensive, easy, and made with everyday pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 can (14–15 oz) salmon, drained
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons butter or vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Drain the salmon.
   Open the canned salmon and drain it well. Remove any skin or bones if you prefer, although the small soft bones are edible and are an excellent source of calcium.
2. Flake the salmon.
   Place the salmon in a medium bowl and use a fork to break it into small pieces.
3. Add the remaining ingredients.
   Add the egg, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, onion, mayonnaise, mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
4. Mix gently.
   Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed. If it seems too wet, add another tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs.
5. Shape the patties.
   Divide the mixture into about 6 portions. Shape each portion into a round patty about ½–¾ inch thick.
6. Rest the patties.
   For patties that hold together particularly well, place them in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before frying.
7. Heat the pan.
   Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
8. Fry the salmon patties.
   Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
9. Drain and serve.
   Transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Grandma’s Tips

• Crushed saltines give these patties that especially nostalgic, old-fashioned flavor.
• Don’t make the patties too thick, or the centers may stay soft while the outside gets brown.
• If the mixture is falling apart, add another beaten egg or a little more cracker crumbs.
• For extra crispy patties, lightly coat both sides with breadcrumbs before frying.
• A little fresh lemon juice brightens up the canned salmon beautifully.

What to Serve With Salmon Patties

Try serving them with:

• Mashed potatoes and gravy
• Green beans
• Coleslaw
• Macaroni and cheese
• Corn on the cob
• Simple garden salad
• Rice and steamed vegetables

For a classic Southern-style plate, serve the patties with mashed potatoes, green beans, and a spoonful of tartar sauce.

Quick Tartar Sauce

Mix together:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped pickles or relish
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon yellow mustard
• A little black pepper

Stir and refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving.

Makes: 6 salmon patties
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: About 25–30 minutes