Salmon croquettes brings together the rich, texture of salmon with crispy, golden perfection for a quick weeknight dinner, a weekend brunch, or as an appetizer for a dinner party.
What Are Salmon Croquettes?
Salmon croquettes are pan-fried patties made from canned or fresh salmon, combined with breadcrumbs, eggs, and a blend of seasonings. Often described as a Southern comfort food classic, these croquettes have a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. Their simplicity, paired with their ability to be dressed up or down, makes them a beloved dish across generations.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Salmon Croquettes
- Choose the Right Salmon: You can use canned salmon (great for convenience) or fresh, cooked salmon for a more luxurious texture and flavor. When using canned salmon, drain it thoroughly and remove any large bones.
- Bind It Right: Eggs and breadcrumbs are essential for holding the croquettes together. If you find the mixture too wet, add more breadcrumbs until it’s manageable.
- Chill the Mixture: Refrigerating the croquette mixture for 15–30 minutes makes it easier to shape and prevents them from falling apart while frying.
- Season Generously: A good blend of onion, garlic powder, parsley, paprika, and dill elevates the flavor profile. Don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy kick!
- Achieve Crispy Perfection: Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for frying, and ensure it’s hot enough before adding the croquettes. This ensures a crisp crust without soaking up too much oil.
Variations to Try
Salmon croquettes can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences:
- Gluten-Free Croquettes: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
- Keto-Friendly: Use crushed pork rinds or almond meal as a binder.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh dill, parsley, or chives for a bright, herby twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
- Cheesy Croquettes: Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or parmesan for extra indulgence.
How to Serve Salmon Croquettes
Salmon croquettes are as versatile as they are delicious. Here are some serving ideas:
- Brunch Favorite: Pair croquettes with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce for an elevated brunch dish.
- Classic Comfort: Serve alongside a creamy remoulade sauce, tartar sauce, or aioli.
- Light and Fresh: Accompany with a crisp green salad, cucumber-dill salad, or roasted vegetables.
- Southern Style: Add a side of grits, collard greens, or cornbread for a classic Southern meal.
How to Store Salmon Croquettes
- Refrigerating: Store cooked croquettes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to retain their crispness.
- Freezing: Place uncooked patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen or thaw before frying.
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Fresh Salmon Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Cook the fresh salmon (bake, poach, or grill), then flake it before combining it with the other ingredients.
What Oil Should I Use for Frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best. For added flavor, you can use butter for frying, though it may burn more easily.
How Do I Prevent My Croquettes from Falling Apart?
Ensure the mixture has enough binding agents like eggs and breadcrumbs. Chilling the mixture also helps maintain their shape during cooking.
Can I Bake Salmon Croquettes Instead of Frying?
Yes, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Are Salmon Croquettes Healthy?
They can be a healthy option, especially if baked or air-fried. Using fresh salmon and minimal oil enhances their nutritional profile.
Salmon Croquettes
Salmon croquettes brings together the rich, texture of salmon with crispy, golden perfection for a quick weeknight dinner, a weekend brunch, or as an appetizer for a dinner party.
Ingredients
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
- (3) 5 oz cans salmon, drained
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1–2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prep the Mix: In a large bowl, combine Panko, flour, bell peppers, salmon, garlic powder, salt, pepper, egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and cilantro. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Shape the Patties: Form the mixture into 6–8 evenly sized patties.
- Cook: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 427Total Fat 38gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 32gCholesterol 50mgSodium 373mgCarbohydrates 13gFiber 1gSugar 2gProtein 8g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Conclusion
Salmon croquettes are a flavorful, adaptable dish that deserves a spot in your recipe rotation. From their crispy texture to their rich, savory taste, they’re a meal that pleases both kids and adults alike. With the tips and variations provided, you’ll be well-equipped to create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
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