Delicious recipe: How to make salmon burgers

Whether you are trying to incorporate more fish into your diet or looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional burgers, making salmon burgers can be a great way to switch things up. Not only are they easy to make, but these flavorful patties are packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids that can provide numerous health benefits.

To start making your own salmon burgers, the first thing you need to do is to choose your ingredients wisely. Fresh salmon is a must, and you can opt for either wild or farm-raised depending on your preference. Other ingredients that you will need include onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, dijon mustard, and a few spices. With these simple ingredients, you can create mouth-watering salmon burgers that are sure to impress your friends and family.

1. Choose the right salmon

When it comes to making salmon burgers, selecting the right type of salmon is crucial. You want to use fresh salmon that is skinless, boneless, and either wild or sustainably farmed. Coho, King, or Sockeye salmon are great options for salmon burgers.

Either purchase a large salmon fillet and cut it into smaller portions, or buy pre-cut salmon fillet from the store. Make sure the salmon is cold and has been stored properly, as freshness is key. When in doubt, ask your local fishmonger for their recommendations and guidance.

2. Prepare your ingredients

Now that you have your salmon fillets, it’s time to prepare your ingredients. You’ll need to finely chop 1 red onion, 2 garlic cloves, and a handful of fresh parsley. You’ll also need 1 egg, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise.

Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the process of making salmon burgers smoother. Also, make sure to have any other desired toppings or sides ready to go.

3. Process the salmon

To make the perfect salmon burger, you’ll need to process the salmon. Cut the fillets into small chunks and place them in a food processor. Pulse until the salmon is ground down to a meat-like consistency, but still has a little texture.

It’s essential not to overprocess the salmon to keep the burgers from becoming too dense. Once the salmon is ground and set aside, you’ll be ready to mix the ingredients.

4. Mix the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground salmon with all the prepped ingredients. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together thoroughly but gently, making sure not to overwork the mixture.

The key to excellent salmon burgers is to mix the ingredients just enough to form them into patties, but not so much that they become tough.

5. Form the patties

Using your hands, form the mixture into four or six evenly sized patties. Make sure to press them gently and shape them securely so they stay together in the cooking process. Keep in mind that the burgers will shrink in size as they cook, so make them a little bigger than the size of your bun.

6. Chill the patties

After forming your salmon burgers, it’s essential to chill them for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Chilling the patties will help them firm up and keep their shape when cooking.

If you find that your patties are too soft, sprinkle a few more breadcrumbs into the mixture and mix well. Then reform the patties and chill them again.

7. Heat up your grill or skillet

When you’re ready to cook, heat up your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Brush the grill with oil or add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet, making sure it’s well coated.

Be careful not to overheat the skillet or grill, as this can cause the burgers to burn and stick to the surface.

8. Cook the burgers

Add the salmon patties to the grill or skillet, leaving enough space between them. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until nice and browned, making sure to flip them gently. If you’re using a skillet, you may need to cook the burgers in two batches.

When cooking, resist the urge to press down on the burgers, as this can make them too dry and lose flavor.

9. Toast the buns

While the burgers are cooking, take the time to toast your bun to perfection. Use a griddle or a toaster to achieve a beautiful golden color, making sure not to burn them.

10. Assemble the burgers

Once the burgers are done, it’s time to assemble them. Place the toasted buns on a plate, add some lettuce or other desired toppings, and place the cooked salmon burgers on top.

Add some aioli or tartar sauce to the top bun and enjoy your delicious homemade salmon burgers!

Ingredients

When it comes to making salmon burgers, the ingredients are key. Here are the things you’ll need to get started:

1. Fresh salmon – We recommend getting skinless salmon fillets. You can either buy them pre-cut or do it yourself.

2. Bread crumbs – Use panko bread crumbs for a crunchy texture.

3. Egg – This will help hold the salmon burgers together.

4. Red onion – Finely chop the onion to add a bit of flavor and crunch.

5. Garlic – You only need a bit of garlic, minced finely.

6. Mayonnaise – This will help create a creamy texture.

7. Dijon mustard – Add a bit of tang and spice to the mix.

8. Lemon juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice will add brightness to the burgers.

9. Salt and pepper – Season to taste.

10. Oil – Use a high-heat oil like olive oil, canola oil, or avocado oil to cook the burgers.

Directions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking. Here’s how to make salmon burgers step by step:

1. Cut the salmon into small pieces and place it in a food processor. Pulse until the salmon is finely chopped, but not pureed.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the chopped salmon, bread crumbs, egg, red onion, garlic, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Use your hands to form the mixture into 4-6 patties.

4. Heat a thin layer of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

5. Add the salmon burgers to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Serve the salmon burgers on a bun with your favorite toppings, like lettuce, tomato, and avocado.

Tips and variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you customize your salmon burgers:

1. Don’t overcook the salmon burgers, or they’ll be dry. Aim for a slightly pink interior.

2. Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination. Some ideas include tartar sauce, pickles, or caramelized onions.

3. Add some heat with a bit of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

4. If you don’t have a food processor, you can finely chop the salmon with a knife.

5. Make a big batch of salmon burgers and freeze them for later. When you’re ready to cook, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.

6. Use different types of salmon for varied flavors. Coho and sockeye salmon both have a rich, buttery flavor that would be delicious in a burger.

7. If you prefer a gluten-free burger, try using gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour as a substitute.

8. Add some herbs to the mix for an extra burst of flavor. Dill or parsley would be great choices.

9. Use a grill instead of a skillet for a smoky flavor.

10. For a healthier version, skip the bun and serve the salmon burgers over a bed of greens or with a side of roasted vegetables.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

1. Salmon

Salmon is the star ingredient of salmon burgers. It is essential to choose fresh salmon fillets that are firm and unblemished. Look for salmon that has a bright, vibrant, and uniform flesh color. You can use either fresh or frozen fillets; just make sure to thaw frozen fillets in the fridge overnight before using them.

2. Binders

Binders are essential ingredients that hold the salmon burger together. Common binders include eggs, breadcrumbs, and mayonnaise. Eggs are the most commonly used binder, which helps to hold the ingredients together. Breadcrumbs, on the other hand, add volume and help to absorb excess moisture while also acting as a binding agent. Mayonnaise not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the burger moist.

3. Seasonings

Seasonings add flavor to salmon burgers. Fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and dill add a burst of freshness to the burger. Garlic, onion, and chili peppers add a spicy kick, while lemon juice adds a refreshing flavor. You can also add spices like paprika, cumin, and black pepper to enhance the flavor.

4. Vegetables

Vegetables add texture and flavor to salmon burgers. Onions and bell peppers add sweetness and crunch, while grated zucchini and carrots add moisture and nutrition. You can also add other vegetables like corn, mushrooms, and spinach to create an even more flavorful burger.

5. Toppings and Sauces

Toppings and sauces can take salmon burgers to the next level. You can top your burger with sliced tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado to add freshness and nutrition. For the sauce, use tartar sauce, aioli, or mayonnaise mixed with lemon juice and herbs to add flavor and creaminess to your burger.

With these ingredients in mind, you are now ready to make the best salmon burgers ever!

Thanks for Reading and Enjoy Your Salmon Burgers!

We hope this article has inspired you to try out making your own salmon burgers. Remember, don’t be afraid to mix in your own favorite ingredients and experiment a bit until you get the burger that’s perfect for you. Share this recipe with your friends and family and be sure to check back in for more tasty food ideas. Happy cooking!