You’re speaking Southern soul food royalty now — Southern Fried Salmon Patties are crispy, golden, and deeply flavorful with humble pantry ingredients. They’re great with grits, greens, or even a side of honey butter skillet corn.
Here’s a classic recipe, just like Grandma might’ve made.
🐟 Southern Fried Salmon Patties
(Makes 6–8 patties)
🧾 Ingredients
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1 (14–15 oz) can of pink salmon (with skin and bones — optional to remove)
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1/2 small onion, finely chopped
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1/4 cup cornmeal (adds crunch)
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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1 large egg
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2–3 tbsp mayonnaise (or use 1 tbsp mustard for tang)
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1–2 tbsp milk (optional, to moisten)
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1/4 tsp garlic powder
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1/4 tsp paprika or cayenne (optional)
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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1–2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions (optional)
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Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
🔥 Instructions
1. Prepare the Salmon
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Drain the canned salmon and remove skin/bones if desired (they’re edible and soft, but some prefer to take them out).
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Flake salmon into a large bowl.
2. Mix the Patties
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Add onion, cornmeal, flour, egg, mayo (or mustard), seasonings, and optional herbs to the bowl.
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Mix until just combined — the mixture should be moist but hold together. Add milk a little at a time if it feels dry.
3. Form the Patties
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Use your hands or a scoop to form into 6–8 small patties (about 1/2-inch thick).
4. Fry ‘Em Up
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Heat 1/4 inch of oil in a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium heat.
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When the oil is hot and shimmering, gently lay in the patties. Don’t crowd the pan.
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Fry 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Flip only once.
5. Drain & Serve
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Remove and place on a paper towel–lined plate. Let rest a minute before serving.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
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With grits or mashed potatoes
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Over rice with hot sauce
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With collard greens or cabbage
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On a bun with slaw as a salmon patty sandwich
🧠 Tips
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Use fresh salmon if you prefer, but canned is traditional and gives that nostalgic Southern taste.
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Let the mixture chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to help the patties hold together better.
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Leftovers reheat well in a skillet or air fryer.