Description
Crispy Salmon Croquettes
These flavorful Salmon Croquettes will transport your taste buds! With a perfect balance of texture and taste, they have a crispy exterior and tender, savory center. A favorite Southern classic, these croquettes are made with flaked salmon, fresh bell peppers, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce, making them a delightful appetizer or meal.
15 oz salmon flakes
½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup all-purpose flour
½ green bell pepper, chopped
½ red bell pepper, chopped
1 egg, beaten
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
¼ cup cilantro, chopped
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Directions:
1. Flake the salmon and mix with all ingredients.
2. Form into patties and fry or bake until golden brown.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Kcal: 242 kcal
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Salmon: Drain the 15 oz of salmon flakes well, pressing out excess moisture with a paper towel. Place in a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, ¼ cup mayonnaise, and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
3. Mix the Patties: To the salmon, add the chopped green and red bell peppers, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour the wet mixture over the top. Sprinkle the ¼ cup flour and ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs over everything. Gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
4. Form the Croquettes: Scoop about ¼ cup of the mixture and form it into a compact patty, about ¾-inch thick. Place on a parchment-lined tray. Repeat with remaining mixture. For a crispier crust, you can lightly coat each patty in extra Panko.
5. Cook: To Pan-Fry: Heat ¼ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply golden and crispy. To Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place patties on a greased baking sheet, lightly brush with oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
6. Drain and Serve: Transfer cooked croquettes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy croquettes hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon. They are excellent as an appetizer with a creamy dill sauce or remoulade. For a main course, pair them with a simple green salad, coleslaw, or garlic mashed potatoes. A classic Southern presentation includes a side of black-eyed peas and hot sauce.
How-to Summary
Drain and flake salmon. Mix with chopped peppers, cilantro, seasonings, egg, mayo, Worcestershire, flour, and Panko. Form into patties. Pan-fry or bake until golden brown and crispy. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned? Yes. Cook and flake about 1 lb of fresh salmon, ensuring it’s cooled and thoroughly drained of all moisture before using.
How can I make these gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 blend and use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs. Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time? You can mix the ingredients and refrigerate the uncooked patties for up to 24 hours. This can help them hold together better during cooking.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. The microwave will make them soggy.
Can I bake these instead of frying? Absolutely. Baking is a healthier option. Place patties on a greased sheet, lightly spray or brush with oil, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping once.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using salmon with too much liquid, as it will prevent proper binding and cause patties to fall apart. Do not overmix the ingredients, as this can lead to a dense, tough texture. Ensure your cooking oil is hot enough before adding patties; if it’s too cool, they will absorb oil and become greasy. Finally, resist the urge to press down on the patties while cooking, as this squeezes out moisture.
Conclusion
These Crispy Salmon Croquettes are a versatile and delicious dish that combines simple ingredients for maximum flavor. Whether served as an elegant appetizer or a satisfying main course, their perfect crispy exterior and tender, savory interior are sure to impress. With the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily master this Southern classic and adapt it to your dietary preferences. Enjoy this timeless recipe that brings comfort and taste to any table.