salmon croquettes soul food recipe
The Best salmon croquettes soul food recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how it lets you customize it. You can make them with fresh salmon or even canned for convenience, and the breading gives them that perfect golden crunch. They’re great for meal prep too—just bake them ahead and reheat them in the oven or air fryer, and they stay crispy. Plus, salmon is packed with omega-3s, which is always a win for keeping things healthy without feeling like you’re missing out on flavor. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is nutritious, and that’s why it’s always a hit at our house.
Classic Soul Food Salmon Croquettes
A crispy, golden-finished croquette packed with flaky salmon and rich tomato sauce, perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillets, skin removed
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup finely diced celery
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 400°F. In a food processor, pulse flour, salt, and cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add egg and milk, pulse until dough forms. Chill dough for 30 minutes. -
2
Cook salmon: Place salmon fillets in a cold skillet over medium heat. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until flaky. Cool slightly, then mix with mayonnaise, celery, red onion, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. -
3
Roll chilled dough into 1-inch rounds. Place 1 tbsp salmon mixture in the center of each round. Fold dough over filling, sealing edges with a fork. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment. -
4
Bake for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 375°F and bake for another 10–12 minutes until golden brown. -
5
While croquettes bake, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic and smoked paprika for 30 seconds. Pour tomato sauce into the pan and simmer for 5 minutes. Cool slightly. -
6
Serve croquettes warm with tomato sauce drizzled over the top.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Soul Food Salmon Croquettes Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Soul Food Salmon Croquettes
1. What is the best way to ensure the salmon in these croquettes stays moist while frying?
To keep the salmon tender, pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning, then lightly coat it in a thin layer of cornstarch or flour before frying. This prevents excess moisture from steaming the batter and helps create a crispy exterior. You can also chill the croquettes for 10 minutes after assembly before frying for a firmer crust.
2. Can I substitute any of the ingredients if I don’t have fresh lemon juice or parsley?
If you lack fresh lemon juice, use about 1 tablespoon of bottled lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute. For parsley, finely chop 1 tablespoon of dried parsley or use 2 tablespoons of fresh dill or chives instead. The flavor will still be bright and fresh, though the taste may differ slightly.
3. How long should I fry the croquettes for to get them perfectly golden?
Fry the croquettes in hot oil (around 350°F) for about 3–4 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and crispy. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the outside may stay greasy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them cool slightly on paper towels before serving.
4. Are these croquettes suitable for making ahead of time, and how should I store them?
Yes, you can assemble the croquettes up to 2 days ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then fry from frozen if desired (add 1–2 extra minutes to the cooking time). Alternatively, bake them at 400°F for 15–20 minutes until crispy, then reheat in a toaster or oven to restore crispiness.
5. What’s the best way to serve these salmon croquettes to make them feel special?
Serve them warm with a side of tartar sauce, spicy remoulade, or a simple aioli for dipping. Pair them with a fresh green salad, roasted asparagus, or crusty bread to balance the richness. For a soulful touch, garnish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of hot honey.
