Traditional Southern Salmon Patties

If you’re craving a crispy, golden-brown Southern delight that’s bursting with savory goodness, Southern Salmon Patties are the answer. Known for their simplicity and rich taste, these patties are a staple in many Southern kitchens and are beloved for their comfort-food appeal. This hearty dish blends pantry staples with Southern culinary tradition, delivering a soul-satisfying meal in every bite.

Ingredients for Traditional Southern Salmon Patties

Here is a detailed breakdown of the ingredients used to make Southern Salmon Patties:

Ingredient	Amount
Canned Salmon	2 cans (14.75 oz each)
Onion (finely diced)	1 small
Eggs	2
Mayonnaise	6 tablespoons
All-Purpose Flour	6 tablespoons
Cornmeal	6 tablespoons
Oil for Frying	As needed (for skillet)
Ice Cream Scoop (optional)	For even patties

Optional Add-ins: Diced jalapeños, green onions, parsley, or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Perfect Salmon Patties

1. Prepare the Salmon

Open the canned salmon and place it in a large mixing bowl. Carefully remove the pin bones — although they are edible and high in calcium, some prefer to take them out for a smoother texture. Don’t worry if you miss a few; they soften during cooking.

2. Add Aromatics and Binders

Add the finely diced onion, two eggs, and mayonnaise to the bowl. Stir thoroughly to combine, ensuring the mixture is smooth and well-blended. The mayo helps to create a moist interior while binding the patties together.

3. Mix in Dry Ingredients

Incorporate the flour and cornmeal into the wet mixture. These help firm up the batter and give the patties their signature crispy coating once fried.

4. Shape the Patties

Using an ice cream scoop ensures that each patty is uniform in size, which aids in even cooking. Gently press the scooped mixture into thick, round patties.

5. Fry to Perfection

Heat a generous amount of oil in a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottom pan. The oil should be hot but not smoking. Carefully place the patties into the skillet, cooking until golden brown on each side, about 3–4 minutes per side.

Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this reduces the oil temperature and makes the patties greasy. Once cooked, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and lightly sprinkle with salt while still hot.