grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties recipe: There’s something truly magical about recipes passed down through generations. They carry with them not just the taste of the dish but also the love, memories, and stories of family gatherings.

One such timeless classic is grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties recipe. Simple, hearty, and incredibly flavorful, these salmon patties are the perfect comfort food that takes you on a nostalgic journey back to your childhood kitchen.

Whether you’re looking to recreate a cherished family tradition or simply want to try your hand at a classic dish, this recipe is a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Let’s dive into what makes grandma’s salmon patties so special and how you can whip them up in your own kitchen.

The Heart of the Recipe: Why Salmon Patties Are So Loved

Salmon patties have been a staple in many households for decades, and for good reason. They’re economical, easy to make, and packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. But beyond their nutritional value, their charm lies in their versatility. These patties can be served as a main dish, a sandwich filling, or even as an appetizer.

Grandma’s version of salmon patties stands out because it’s rooted in simplicity. Using pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, she was able to create a dish that was not just delicious but also comforting. The crispy golden crust paired with the tender, flaky interior is what keeps people coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Canned salmon: The star of the dish. Make sure to drain it well and remove any bones or skin if necessary.
Eggs: These act as a binding agent to hold the patties together.
Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers: For texture and structure. Grandma often used whatever she had on hand, from saltine crackers to panko breadcrumbs.
Onion: Finely chopped to add flavor and a bit of crunch.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and sometimes a dash of garlic powder or paprika for an extra kick.
Oil for frying: A neutral oil like vegetable or canola works best for frying the patties to golden perfection.

Optional ingredients like parsley, dill, or lemon zest can be added to give the patties a fresh twist, but grandma’s recipe is all about keeping it simple and letting the salmon shine.

grandma's old fashioned salmon patties recipes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Salmon Mixture
Start by draining the canned salmon and placing it in a mixing bowl. Use a fork to break it apart into smaller flakes. Add the eggs, breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers), chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to shape into patties. If it feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
Shape the Patties
Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties about 2-3 inches in diameter and ½ inch thick. This size ensures they cook evenly and develop that perfect crispy crust.
Heat the Oil
Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. You’ll need enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan to ensure even frying.
Fry the Patties
Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), carefully place the patties into the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
Drain and Serve
Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite sides or dipping sauces.

Tips for Perfect Salmon Patties

Don’t Overmix: Overworking the mixture can make the patties dense and tough. Mix just until everything is combined.
Use Fresh Ingredients: While canned salmon is convenient, using fresh onion and herbs can elevate the flavor profile of your patties.
Test for Seasoning: Before shaping all your patties, cook a small piece of the mixture to taste-test for seasoning adjustments.
Keep Them Warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep cooked patties warm in a low oven while frying the rest.

Serving Suggestions

Grandma’s salmon patties are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are some ideas:

Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that makes for a hearty meal.
Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw balance out the richness of the patties beautifully.
Tartar Sauce or Aioli: These creamy dips add an extra layer of flavor to every bite.
Simple Salad: A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the patties without overpowering them.
Rice or Quinoa: For a healthier option, serve them over a bed of rice or quinoa with steamed vegetables on the side.

Why Grandma’s Recipe Will Always Be a Classic

In today’s world of gourmet cooking and complex recipes, there’s something incredibly refreshing about going back to basics with grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties recipe. It’s a reminder that good food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—it just needs to be made with love and care.

So next time you’re craving something nostalgic or want to introduce your family to a timeless dish, give this recipe a try. Who knows? It might just become a new tradition in your household, just as it was in grandma’s kitchen all those years ago!

grandma’s old fashioned salmon patties recipe

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A nostalgic and comforting dish, grandma’s old-fashioned salmon patties are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Simple, hearty, and incredibly delicious, these patties make for a perfect main course or appetizer.

Author: Noura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course, Appetizer
Method: Pan-Fried
Cuisine: American
Diet: Pescatarian

Instructions

Prepare the Salmon Mixture:
- Drain the canned salmon and place it in a mixing bowl.
- Use a fork to break it apart into smaller flakes.
- Add eggs, breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers), chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and optional seasonings.
- Mix until well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to shape into patties. If too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
Shape the Patties:
- Form the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter and ½ inch thick.
Heat the Oil:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Ensure enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan for even frying.
Fry the Patties:
- Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), carefully place the patties in the skillet.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if needed.

Drain and Serve:
- Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides and dipping sauces.

Notes

Don’t Overmix: Overworking the mixture can make the patties dense. Mix until just combined.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, herbs, and lemon zest enhance the flavor.
Test for Seasoning: Cook a small piece to taste-test before shaping all the patties.