Thai-Inspired Salmon Patties

Name: Thai-Inspired Salmon Patties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh salmon fillet; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 2 green onions, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tbsp red curry paste; 1 tbsp fish sauce; 1 egg, beaten; Salt and pepper, to taste; Vegetable oil, for frying

Highlighted under: International Eats

I absolutely love making Thai-Inspired Salmon Patties! Every bite is a delightful blend of flavors that remind me of my travels to Thailand. The fresh herbs and spices elevate the tender salmon, making it a dish that sings with taste and freshness. I particularly enjoy serving these patties with a zesty dipping sauce, which adds an extra layer of deliciousness. Whether I’m preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, these patties are my go-to choice for something exciting and full of flavor.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-19T18:06:22.399Z

When I first tried making salmon patties, I knew I wanted to infuse them with some vibrant Thai flavors. I started by combining fresh cilantro and lime with the salmon, and the result was simply delightful. Adding a touch of fish sauce and red curry paste really brought the dish to life and made it remarkably tasty.

Cooking these patties on a hot skillet enhances their contrast of crisp exterior and soft interior, which I find so satisfying. I often prepare a quick dipping sauce with lime juice and chili for that extra kick, transforming a simple dish into a delicious feast!

Why You'll Love These Patties
Fresh and zesty flavors inspired by Thai cuisine
Crispy on the outside yet tender and juicy within
Quick and easy to whip up, perfect for any meal
A fantastic way to enjoy healthy salmon in a new way

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Thai-Inspired Salmon Patties, using fresh ingredients is key. Fresh salmon not only enhances the dish's vibrant taste but also ensures that the patties hold their shape when cooked. Look for bright, moist salmon with a clean smell at your seafood counter. If possible, opt for wild-caught salmon, as it offers a richer flavor profile compared to farmed options.

Bright herbs like cilantro and green onions are essential for achieving the zesty flavor that defines these patties. When choosing cilantro, select bunches with fresh, crisp leaves and avoid any yellowing or wilting. This fresh herb imparts a unique citrus-like note that pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the dish.

Perfecting Your Patties

When mixing the salmon with other ingredients, avoid overworking the mixture to ensure your patties remain tender. It's best to gently fold the ingredients until just combined. If you notice the mixture feels too wet, consider adding a bit more breadcrumbs to help it bind without making the patties dense.

Forming the patties uniformly, about 2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick, will help them cook evenly. If you find that the mixture is difficult to form, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes can help firm it up, making the shaping process easier.

Cooking to Perfection

Cooking the patties requires careful attention to heat levels. A medium heat ensures that the outside becomes golden brown without burning while allowing the inside to cook through properly, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side. If you notice the patties browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly and let them cook a little longer.

Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the patties; you can test by dropping a small piece of the mixture into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready to go. Using a non-stick skillet can also help prevent unwanted sticking. If you do experience sticking, adding a touch of oil around the edges during cooking can help.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Thai-Inspired Salmon Patties:

Ingredients

1 lb fresh salmon fillet
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
2 green onions, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp red curry paste
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetable oil, for frying

These ingredients will bring vibrant flavors to your Thai-Inspired Salmon Patties!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your salmon patties:

Prepare the Salmon

Remove the skin from the salmon fillet and cut it into chunks. In a food processor, pulse the salmon until it reaches a chunky purée consistency.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the processed salmon with breadcrumbs, green onions, cilantro, red curry paste, fish sauce, and the beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper, and mix until fully combined.

Form the Patties

Scoop out portions of the mixture and form them into patties, about 2 inches in diameter.

Cook the Patties

Heat a little vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Now your Thai-Inspired Salmon Patties are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra texture, consider adding crushed peanuts to the mixture. They will give a delightful crunch to your patties.

Serving Suggestions

These salmon patties shine when paired with a zesty dipping sauce. I love to serve them with a simple mix of lime juice, fish sauce, and a hint of sugar, which complements the flavors beautifully. You can also try a sriracha mayonnaise or a homemade sweet chili sauce for an added kick.

For a complete meal, consider serving the patties alongside a fresh salad tossed with Thai-inspired dressing, or place them in a lettuce wrap with crunchy vegetables for a fun, hands-on dining experience. Both options highlight the vibrant flavors of the patties while keeping the meal light.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the cooled patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crisp texture, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil as needed, for about 5 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once solid. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh salmon?

Absolutely! Just make sure to drain the canned salmon well before mixing it with the other ingredients.

→ How can I store leftover patties?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet before serving.

→ What type of dipping sauce goes well with these patties?

A simple mixture of lime juice, chili sauce, and a touch of honey makes a great dipping sauce to complement the patties.

→ Can I bake these patties instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.