Canned Salmon to Scrumptious Salmon Cakes: How to Make Fish Cakes from Canned Salmon

Are you looking for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavor and protein? Look no further than fish cakes! And the best part? You can make them from canned salmon, a pantry staple that’s always ready to go. This blog post will guide you through the process of making delicious fish cakes from canned salmon, from choosing the right ingredients to mastering the perfect texture.

Why Canned Salmon?

Canned salmon is a fantastic ingredient for fish cakes for several reasons:

• Convenience: It’s readily available and has a long shelf life, making it a perfect pantry staple.
• Cost-effective: Canned salmon is generally more affordable than fresh salmon.
• Versatility: It can be used in various dishes, from salads to pasta to, of course, fish cakes.
• Nutritional Value: Canned salmon is a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients.

Essential Ingredients for Your Fish Cakes

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather the essential ingredients for your fish cakes:

• Canned salmon: Choose a good quality canned salmon, preferably wild-caught.
• Potato: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well for their creamy texture.
• Onion: Adds a savory and sweet flavor to your fish cakes.
• Garlic: Enhances the flavor profile and adds a subtle warmth.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• Breadcrumbs: Provide texture and help the fish cakes hold their shape.
• Milk or cream: Adds moisture and creaminess to the mixture.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste.
• Optional ingredients: You can add other ingredients to enhance the flavor of your fish cakes, such as chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives), lemon zest, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Preparing the Ingredients

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s prepare them for the next steps:

1. Drain and flake the canned salmon: Open the can and drain the liquid. Use a fork to flake the salmon into smaller pieces.
2. Cook the potato: Peel and chop the potato into small cubes. Boil them until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain the water and mash the potatoes thoroughly.
3. Sauté the onion and garlic: Finely chop the onion and garlic. Sauté them in a pan with a little olive oil until softened and fragrant.
4. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, mashed potatoes, sautéed onion and garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Shaping and Cooking the Fish Cakes

We are now ready to shape and cook our fish cakes:

1. Shape the fish cakes: Use your hands to form the mixture into patties, about 1-inch thick. You can adjust the size according to your preference.
2. Coat the fish cakes: You can choose to coat the fish cakes with breadcrumbs, flour, or a combination of both. This step helps them brown nicely during cooking.
3. Cook the fish cakes: You can cook the fish cakes in a variety of ways:

• Pan-frying: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the fish cakes for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the fish cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Air-frying: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Air fry the fish cakes for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serving Your Delicious Fish Cakes

Now that your fish cakes are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Classic side dishes: Serve your fish cakes with classic sides like mashed potatoes, peas, green beans, or a simple salad.
• Flavorful accompaniments: For a more flavorful experience, try serving your fish cakes with a lemon-dill sauce, a creamy tartar sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
• Creative toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding some chopped fresh herbs, a sprinkle of grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

A Culinary Adventure: Going Beyond the Basics

While the classic fish cake recipe is delicious, there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen. Here are some ideas to elevate your fish cake game:

• Add a burst of flavor: Incorporate different herbs and spices to your fish cake mixture, like dill, parsley, chives, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Experiment with different vegetables: Instead of just onions and garlic, try adding chopped carrots, celery, or even some finely diced bell peppers to your mixture.
• Get creative with coatings: Instead of breadcrumbs, try coating your fish cakes with crushed nuts, crushed crackers, or even shredded coconut for a unique texture and flavor.

A Farewell to This Culinary Journey:

As you have seen, making fish cakes from canned salmon is a simple yet rewarding culinary adventure. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or a more elaborate dinner party appetizer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of canned fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use canned tuna, sardines, or even smoked salmon in place of canned salmon. Just adjust the seasoning and spices accordingly.

2. How long can I store leftover fish cakes?

You can store leftover fish cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze fish cakes?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked fish cakes for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

4. What are some other ways to cook fish cakes?

Besides pan-frying, baking, and air-frying, you can also grill or broil fish cakes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

5. What are some alternative toppings for fish cakes?

Besides the suggestions mentioned above, you can also try topping your fish cakes with avocado slices, salsa, or a drizzle of hot sauce.