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### **Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Southern Fried Salmon Patties**
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. The steps are straightforward, but there are some tricks that will help you create the crispiest, most flavorful patties.
#### Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
1. **Drain the Canned Salmon**: Open the cans of salmon and drain the liquid. Be sure to reserve a bit of the liquid to keep the patties moist if needed. Transfer the salmon to a large mixing bowl.
2. **Remove Skin and Bones (Optional)**: If you prefer to remove the skin and bones from the salmon, you can easily do so by picking through the fish with a fork. However, many people prefer to leave the skin and bones in for added texture and nutrition, as they are perfectly edible and provide flavor.
#### Step 2: Add the Seasonings and Vegetables
1. **Mix in the Egg**: Crack the eggs into the bowl with the salmon and mix them in to help bind the patties together.
2. **Add Vegetables and Seasonings**: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, and parsley to the salmon mixture. Season with Cajun or Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. **Add Breadcrumbs**: Stir in the breadcrumbs, a little at a time, until the mixture becomes thick enough to form into patties. You may need more or less depending on the moisture in the salmon. If the mixture is too wet, add additional breadcrumbs until it reaches the right consistency.
#### Step 3: Form the Patties
1. **Shape the Patties**: Use your hands or a spoon to form the salmon mixture into patties. You can make them as large or small as you like, but traditional Southern fried salmon patties are typically about 3-4 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. If you want uniform patties, you can use a scoop or measuring cup.
2. **Chill the Patties (Optional)**: To help the patties hold their shape while frying, you can refrigerate them for about 20-30 minutes before cooking. This is an optional step, but it can make the frying process easier.
#### Step 4: Fry the Patties
1. **Heat the Oil**: Pour enough oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom by about 1/2 inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking (you can test it by dropping a small piece of the mixture into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready).
2. **Fry the Patties**: Carefully place the patties into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip them gently, as they can be delicate.
3. **Drain Excess Oil**: Once the patties are crispy and golden, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Southern fried salmon patties immediately, hot and crispy. You can garnish them with extra chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.
### **Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Southern Fried Salmon Patties**
Southern fried salmon patties can be served with a variety of side dishes that complement their rich and savory flavor. Here are some classic Southern sides to consider:
#### 1. **Collard Greens**: A traditional Southern side, collard greens are typically cooked with ham hocks or bacon for flavor. Their slightly bitter taste balances the richness of the salmon patties.
#### 2. **Cornbread**: Sweet, buttery cornbread is a classic companion to fried dishes. Its crumbly texture and subtle sweetness are perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce or juices from the salmon patties.
#### 3. **Macaroni and Cheese**: A creamy, cheesy side dish, mac and cheese is another Southern staple that pairs beautifully with the crispy patties.
#### 4. **Mashed Potatoes**: Creamy mashed potatoes, possibly with a little garlic or cheese, are a comforting side that complements the crispy texture of the patties.
#### 5. **Fried Green Tomatoes**: Another Southern favorite, fried green tomatoes are tangy and crispy, making them a perfect side to balance the richness of the salmon.
#### 6. **Coleslaw**: A refreshing, tangy coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the warmth of the fried patties, adding crunch and zest.
### **Tips for Perfect Southern Fried Salmon Patties**
1. **Use Fresh Ingredients**: Fresh onions, bell peppers, and garlic enhance the overall flavor of the patties. If you have fresh herbs like dill or thyme, feel free to incorporate them into the mix for added depth of flavor.
2. **Don’t Overmix**: When combining the ingredients, mix just enough to bring everything together. Overmixing can result in dense, tough patties.
3. **Adjust Seasoning**: Taste the mixture before frying and adjust the seasoning as needed. Since canned salmon varies in flavor, be sure to season to your liking.
4. **Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature**: If the oil is too hot, the patties will burn before cooking through. If it’s too cold, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Maintain a medium heat to ensure even frying.
5. **Use a Nonstick Skillet**: A nonstick skillet will help prevent the patties from sticking to the pan and breaking apart during frying.
6. **Make Ahead**: You can make the salmon patty mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together even more.
### **Conclusion**
Southern fried salmon patties are a simple, satisfying dish that brings together the heartwarming flavors of Southern cooking. With their crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, these patties are a favorite comfort food that can be enjoyed by anyone who loves a good home-cooked meal. Whether you’re serving them for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Southern fried salmon patties are sure to bring joy to your table.
With just a few basic ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you can create a dish that’s both affordable and delicious. By pairing it with classic Southern sides like cornbread, collard greens, or mashed potatoes, you’ll have a meal that’s full of flavor and Southern charm.
