Ingredients Overview
- Canned salmon (about 14.75 oz), drained and flaked – forms the hearty base of the patties.
- Mayonnaise – adds moisture and richness to keep the mixture tender.
- 1 large egg, beaten – acts as a binder to hold everything together.
- Finely chopped yellow onion – brings fresh, savory flavor.
- All-purpose flour – helps the mixture stay firm during shaping and cooking.
- Fine cornmeal – gives that classic Southern crunch on the outside.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – simple seasonings that enhance flavor.
- Neutral oil (vegetable or canola) – needed for pan-frying to achieve a crisp, golden crust.
👩🍳 How to Make Them
1️⃣ Prepare the Salmon
Add the fully drained canned salmon to a large mixing bowl. Using a fork, break it apart into small, even flakes.
2️⃣ Mix the Wet Ingredients
Stir in the beaten egg, mayonnaise, and minced onion. Combine gently until evenly distributed.
3️⃣ Add the Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle in the flour, cornmeal, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients come together into a firm, cohesive mixture that holds its shape.
4️⃣ Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a flat patty, similar in size and thickness to a standard burger.
5️⃣ Heat the Oil
Pour about 1 inch of oil into a heavy skillet and heat over medium. The oil is ready when a small crumb dropped in begins to sizzle.
6️⃣ Fry Until Crisp
Carefully place the patties into the hot oil, leaving space between them. Cook for several minutes per side, flipping once, until both sides are deep golden brown and crisp.
7️⃣ Drain and Serve
Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm while the outside is perfectly crunchy.
💡 Tips, Variations & Storage
Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry in batches if needed to maintain oil temperature and maximum crispiness.
No Fresh Onion? Substitute with about 1 teaspoon of onion powder for a similar savory flavor.
Flavor Boost: Add a little lemon zest or a splash of mild hot sauce to brighten the taste.
Gluten-Friendly Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
Storage: Keep leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
Freezing: Once cooled, freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
