Salmon Croquettes Soul Food Recipe

Dive into the rich and savory world of Salmon Croquettes, a heartwarming Southern delicacy.

Salmon croquettes are a beloved soul food staple, bringing together the rich flavors of salmon and a bevy of savory spices. These croquettes are crispy on the outside while tender and flavorful on the inside, making them a perfect comfort dish for any meal. Often served as an appetizer or main course, salmon croquettes can transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining experience.

Originating from Southern kitchens, salmon croquettes hold a special place in heartwarming family gatherings and soul food celebrations. They are not only mouthwateringly delicious but also easy to prepare, using ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. This detailed recipe will guide you through each step to ensure you create the perfect soul food delicacy. Let’s dive into the savory, crispy world of salmon croquettes!

Ingredients

• 1 (14.75 oz) can of salmon, drained
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
• 1/4 cup finely chopped bell peppers
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

Calories: ~300 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Drain the canned salmon and remove any remaining bones and skin. Finely chop the onions, bell peppers, and celery.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained salmon, chopped onions, bell peppers, and celery. Add the beaten egg, breadcrumbs, and flour to the mixture. Stir to combine until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
3. Season the Mixture: Season the salmon mixture with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Add the lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Form the Croquettes: Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the salmon mixture into small patties. Make sure the patties are compact to prevent them from falling apart during frying.
5. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of the mixture into it. If it sizzles and begins to brown, the oil is ready.
6. Fry the Croquettes: Carefully place the salmon patties into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the croquettes are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking.
7. Drain and Serve: Once the croquettes are cooked, remove them from the skillet using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve the salmon croquettes hot, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your delicious salmon croquettes as a delightful main course or a savory appetizer. These croquettes can be paired with a variety of side dishes, such as creamy mashed potatoes, collard greens, or a tangy coleslaw, to create a well-rounded soul food meal. You can also serve them with tartar sauce, remoulade, or even a simple squeeze of lemon to enhance their flavor.

If you're looking to make this dish a part of your regular meal rotation, consider preparing the mixture in advance and freezing the formed croquettes. This way, you can easily fry them up whenever you need a quick and delicious meal. Remember, homemade salmon croquettes are a versatile and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed year-round.

For a healthier twist, you can bake the croquettes instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush the croquettes with oil and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.