Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
Imagine a dish that’s been loved in many American homes for years. It’s a classic salmon patty recipe that’s simple to make and tasty. You can make your own grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties with canned salmon, crackers, and eggs. This recipe is a wonderful way to bond with your family and is also easy on your wallet, costing under $10 for all ingredients.
Table of Contents
The Story Behind Grandma’s Famous Salmon Patties
Salmon patties have been a favorite in many American homes for years. They started during the Great Depression when canned salmon was common. Family recipe were a cheap and tasty meal. They were made with canned salmon, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
They were often served with creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, and green beans. This made the meal even more special.
Grandma’s secret recipe has been passed down for generations. It uses a mix of flour, egg, and panko or seasoned breadcrumbs. This gives the patties a light and crunchy texture.
The best way to fry them is at 350°F to 375°F. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes until they’re golden and crispy.
A Depression-Era Classic
Salmon patties were a hit during the Great Depression. They’re not just tasty but also good for your heart and brain. Many families have their own traditional salmon cakes recipes.
Why This Recipe Has Stood the Test of Time
Salmon patties are loved for many reasons. They’re easy to make and can be made in many ways. This makes them perfect for any occasion.
They also bring back memories of family gatherings. This emotional connection makes them even more special.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Salmon Patties
To make the best salmon patty recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients. These include canned salmon, crackers, eggs, and seasonings. For grandma’s salmon croquettes, using wild-caught salmon and whole wheat crackers is important. They give a nuttier flavor.
A great retro patties recipe also includes finely chopped onion and red bell pepper. These add sweetness and crunch. Panko bread crumbs help the mixture stick together. Adding Worcestershire sauce and garlic salt boosts the flavor.
- 14.75 ounces of canned salmon
- 10 crushed saltine crackers
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic salt
Using these ingredients and a simple recipe, you can make tasty grandma’s salmon croquettes. They’re quick to prepare, with only 10 minutes of prep and cooking time. These retro salmon patties are perfect for a fast and delicious dinner.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make delicious homemade salmon patties, you’ll need the right tools and equipment. A classic salmon patty recipe needs basic utensils like a skillet and spatula. These tools help prepare and cook the patties perfectly.
Some must-have utensils include a large bowl for mixing and a measuring cup for accurate measurements. A spoon is also useful for stirring. Optional tools like a food processor or stand mixer can help chop the onion and mix ingredients more efficiently.
Essential Utensils
- Skillet or non-stick pan
- Spatula
- Large bowl
- Measuring cup
- Spoon
Optional Tools
- Food processor
- Stand mixer
- Electric grater
With these kitchen tools and equipment, you’re ready to make tasty homemade salmon patties. Use a classic or easy salmon patty recipe. Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Tool | Description |
---|---|
Skillet | Used for cooking the salmon patties |
Food Processor | Optional tool for chopping onion and mixing ingredients |
Measuring Cup | Used for accurate ingredient measurements |
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
To make the best salmon patty recipe, follow a few simple steps. Start by preparing the salmon mixture. It usually includes canned salmon, onion, and green pepper. You can use a traditional salmon cakes recipe as a guide. But feel free to try different ingredients and seasonings.
Once your salmon mixture is ready, it’s time to form the patties. Use a grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties recipe for the right consistency and shape. Handle the mixture gently to avoid compacting it too much.
Preparing the Salmon Mixture
This step is key in making the best salmon patty recipe. Mix canned salmon, diced onion, and green pepper in a bowl. Add salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like, and mix well.
Forming the Perfect Patties
Use your hands to shape the salmon mixture into patties. You can make them any size you like. But remember, they’ll be easier to cook if they’re not too large. Place the patties on a plate or tray, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Techniques
To cook the salmon patties, you can pan-fry, bake, or grill them. If you’re using a traditional salmon cakes recipe, try pan-frying them in a little oil. This will make them golden brown and crispy. Whatever method you choose, cook the patties until they’re cooked through and flake easily with a fork.
Tips for Getting the Right Texture
To get the perfect texture in your easy salmon patty recipe, follow these tips. Don’t overmix the ingredients to avoid dense patties. Use the right binder, like eggs or breadcrumbs, to keep the patties together.
When cooking, make sure the oil is hot enough. Don’t put too many patties in the pan at once. This can cool the oil and mess up the texture.
Some common texture problems are dry or too moist patties. Handle the salmon mixture gently to prevent these issues. Adding diced onions or bell peppers can also help with texture and flavor.
Grandma’s salmon croquettes are a great example of how to mix ingredients for the perfect texture.
Here are more tips for the right texture:
- Use fresh and high-quality ingredients, including canned salmon and breadcrumbs.
- Don’t overcook the patties, as this can make them dry and tough.
- Use the right amount of oil when frying the patties, and make sure it’s at the right temperature.
By following these tips and using the right ingredients, you can make delicious salmon patties. Whether you’re making a classic or trying a new recipe, the key is in the texture and flavor.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Canned Salmon | 15 ounces |
Breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
Egg | 1 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making homemade salmon patties, it’s key to avoid common mistakes. One big error is using too much filler, like breadcrumbs or potatoes. This makes the patty dense and less tasty. It’s especially important in a classic salmon patty recipe, as it changes the texture and taste.
Another mistake is cooking the patties too hot. This can burn the outside and leave the inside raw. To avoid this, follow a family recipe guide for cooking temperatures and times. For example, pan-frying needs a medium-high heat, while baking is best at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Some common mistakes to avoid when making salmon patties include:
- Using too much filler, which can increase the density of the patty
- Cooking at too high a temperature, which can result in a burnt exterior and undercooked interior
- Not allowing the mixture to rest, which can affect the texture and structure of the patty

By avoiding these mistakes and following a good recipe, you can make tasty homemade salmon patties. Whether you’re using a classic recipe or a family guide, focus on the details. Take your time to get it right.
Mistake | Solution |
---|---|
Using too much filler | Use the recommended amount of breadcrumbs or potatoes |
Cooking at too high a temperature | Follow the recommended cooking temperature and time |
Not allowing the mixture to rest | Let the mixture rest for 10-15 minutes before forming the patties |
Delicious Variations on the Classic Recipe
Grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties recipe can be made even better with your own twist. Try adding Old Bay or Cajun seasoning for a unique taste. For a retro feel, use saltines instead of panko breadcrumbs.
Adding diced onions or bell peppers can make the patties even tastier. You can also swap out the salmon for cod or tilapia for a different flavor. Here are some ideas to try:
- Asian-style salmon patties with soy sauce and ginger
- Spicy salmon patties with jalapenos and cumin
- Mediterranean-style salmon patties with feta cheese and olives
These variations can help you create a unique grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties recipe. With a bit of experimentation, you can find the perfect mix of ingredients for your taste.
Remember, the secret to great salmon patties is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. A little creativity can turn a retro salmon patties recipe into something truly special.
Variation | Ingredients | Instructions |
---|---|---|
Asian-style | Salmon, soy sauce, ginger, garlic | Mix all ingredients together and form into patties. Pan-fry until golden brown. |
Spicy | Salmon, jalapenos, cumin, chili powder | Mix all ingredients together and form into patties. Pan-fry until golden brown. |
Mediterranean-style | Salmon, feta cheese, olives, lemon juice | Mix all ingredients together and form into patties. Pan-fry until golden brown. |
Perfect Side Dishes for Salmon Patties
When you serve family recipe salmon patties, you want sides that match their taste and feel. Classic choices like coleslaw and baked beans are always a winner. But, you can also try newer options like quinoa salad or roasted veggies.
For a timeless choice, pair your traditional salmon cakes with tartar sauce or remoulade. A light green salad with citrus dressing is great too. If you’re hosting a party, offer different dips like cocktail sauce or aioli with your easy salmon patty recipe.

- Grilled asparagus or other vegetables
- Saffron rice or other flavored rice dishes
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
These choices add variety in texture and taste to your salmon patties. Pick one or more to make a meal that’s both filling and enjoyable.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Storing and reheating your grandma’s salmon croquettes right is key. Cooked patties can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
To reheat your homemade salmon patties, use the oven, microwave, or stovetop. This keeps them moist and flavorful. Here’s how to reheat:
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and reheat for 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Reheat on high for 20-30 seconds per patty.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pan with a small amount of oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
Always check the salmon patties’ internal temperature. They should reach 145°F (63°C) for safety. By following these tips, you can enjoy your grandma’s salmon croquettes longer while keeping them safe and tasty.
Making the Recipe Ahead of Time
Preparing a classic salmon patty recipe ahead of time is a smart move. You can make the easy salmon patty recipe early and store it in the fridge or freezer. This is great for when you’re busy, as you can cook the patties whenever you like.
To prepare grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties recipe early, just make the salmon mix and shape the patties. Then, refrigerate or freeze them. Here are some tips for freezing and batch cooking:
Freezing Instructions
- Place the shaped patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Put the baking sheet in the freezer and let the patties freeze for about 30 minutes.
- Transfer the frozen patties to an airtight container or freezer bag for storage.
Batch Cooking Tips
You can also cook the patties in batches and store them for later. Just cook the patties, let them cool, and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Or freeze them for up to three months.
By making the recipe ahead of time, you can enjoy a delicious and easy salmon patty recipe whenever you want. You won’t have to worry about last-minute prep.
Storage Method | Shelf Life |
---|---|
Refrigerator | Up to 3 days |
Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Conclusion
Grandma’s old-fashioned salmon patties recipe is a true treasure. It nourishes the body and connects us to family memories. This recipe has become a staple in American cuisine, from the Depression era to today.
By making grandma’s homemade salmon patties, you honor her legacy. You also start new traditions for your family. These family recipe salmon patties bring a taste of nostalgia and a sense of belonging to your table.
As you try different variations, you’ll see how this recipe brings people together. It fosters a sense of community and connection. So, embrace grandma’s classic flavors and create lasting memories with every bite.
FAQ
What makes grandma’s old-fashioned salmon patties so special?
What are the essential ingredients for making perfect salmon patties?
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make grandma’s salmon patties?
How do you prepare and cook grandma’s salmon patties?
What are the common mistakes to avoid when making salmon patties?
Can you make variations on the classic salmon patty recipe?
What are the best side dishes to serve with salmon patties?
Can you make salmon patties ahead of time?
Source Links
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