Salmon croquettes are a beloved Southern comfort food that have been enjoyed for generations. Their crispy exterior enveloping a tender flavorful interior makes them an irresistible treat. But what exactly are salmon croquettes made of?
A Brief History of Salmon Croquettes
The first salmon croquettes probably came about when expensive salmon was mixed with cheap fillers like breadcrumbs or mashed potatoes to make it last longer When the salmon was shaped into patties or cakes to be fried, the binders helped it keep its shape
This economical salmon dish became popular in the American South where salmon was not as readily available or affordable as other regions. Using a small amount of canned salmon to flavor a patty allowed cooks to create the taste of salmon without using large fillets.
Over time salmon croquettes evolved into their own cherished recipe rather than just a salmon substitute. The crispy exterior and soft interior texture along with zesty seasonings makes them a prized meal. Their versatility as an appetizer, main dish or even sandwich filling cemented salmon croquettes as a staple in Southern cooking.
The Simple Ingredients in Salmon Croquettes
There are different versions of this recipe, but most of them only need a few simple ingredients:
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Canned salmon – While fresh cooked salmon can be used, canned salmon provides convenience and moisture.
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Eggs and/or mayonnaise – These act as binders to help the croquette mixture stick together.
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Onion and bell pepper: Onions and peppers that have been diced add flavor, crunch, and moisture.
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Breadcrumbs or crackers – Dry crumbs absorb moisture and create a crispy coating when fried.
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Seasonings like salt, pepper, paprika, garlic and mustard – Tailor the flavor with your favorite spices and herbs.
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All-purpose flour – Just a small amount of flour helps bind the ingredients.
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Vegetable oil – Used to pan-fry the croquettes to a golden brown color.
As you can see, common pantry staples make up the base with salmon providing the star flavor. Adjustments like adding hot sauce, herbs, cheese or Worcestershire sauce can customize your croquette recipe.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Making salmon croquettes is a simple process:
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Drain and flake the salmon from a can or pouch into a bowl, breaking apart any large chunks.
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In a separate bowl, beat an egg. Add diced onions, peppers, breadcrumbs, flour, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings. Mix in the salmon.
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Form rounded tablespoon-sized portions into small patties, about 2-3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick.
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Heat 1/4 inch oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry croquettes 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown.
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Drain on paper towels and serve hot with desired condiments.
It only takes about 30 minutes total to make salmon croquettes from start to finish. The hands-on process allows you to add your own creative touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about this tasty Southern dish:
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Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned? Yes, cook fresh salmon and flake it into the batter in place of canned.
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What if I don’t have breadcrumbs? Use crushed crackers, dry bread, or savory cereal instead.
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How long does it take to fry them? Just 2-3 minutes per side until deeply golden brown.
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Can I bake them? Yes, at 425°F for 12-15 minutes until browned and crispy.
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What’s the best oil to use? A neutral oil like vegetable or canola works well.
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How should I store leftovers? Refrigerate up to 4 days. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
Serving Suggestions
There are endless ways to serve salmon croquettes. Here are some delicious ideas:
- As sandwiches on buns with condiments
- Over fresh salads for added protein
- Alongside mashed potatoes or rice for an easy meal
- On pasta with creamy or lemony sauces
- As an appetizer with dipping sauces
- In lettuce wraps for a low carb option
- Baked into mini tacos or sliders for fun finger food
However you choose to enjoy them, salmon croquettes are the perfect way to savor salmon’s flavor in a budget-friendly and comforting recipe. Now that you know what they’re made of, you can gather a few simple ingredients and whip up this Southern specialty in your own kitchen!