I love recipes that are simple, healthy, and easy on the budget. These canned tuna and canned salmon patties are one of those dishes that always save the day when I need something quick but still homemade and full of flavor. They’re crispy outside, soft inside, and filled with the goodness of fish.
Sometimes I use canned salmon, sometimes tuna, depending on what I have in the pantry. Salmon is especially good because it’s rich in omega-3, which is great for the heart and the brain. My son loves these patties with ketchup or, as he calls it, “tomatuh sauce.” I like mine with vinegar dip or a bit of sweet chili sauce. Either way, everyone’s happy.
These are perfect for a weekday meal, lunchbox, or even as a quick snack. They’re proof that healthy food doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.
What You’ll Need
For the Salmon Patties or Tuna Patties
- 1 can (180 g) salmon or tuna, drained and flaked
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small carrot, shredded
- 2 tablespoons green onions or parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for binding
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon calamansi or lemon juice (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Coating
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking oil for frying
For the Vinegar Dipping Sauce
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, chopped (optional for spice)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
How To Make It
- In a bowl, mix together the salmon or tuna, onion, garlic, shredded carrot, green onions, egg, breadcrumbs, cornstarch, soy sauce, calamansi or lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Shape the mixture into small patties. You’ll get about 6 to 8 pieces, depending on size.
3. Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Coat each patty with flour, dip in the beaten egg, then cover with panko breadcrumbs.
5. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
6. For the vinegar sauce, combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix well.
SERVING IDEAS
Serve these patties hot with rice, or turn them into a sandwich with lettuce and mayo. My son enjoys them best dipped in ketchup, while I prefer the tangy vinegar sauce or sweet chili sauce. You can use store-bought sweet chili sauce. You can find it in most Asian stores, and it pairs perfectly with the patties. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer to bring back their crispiness.
These tuna and salmon patties are one of those little meals that bring comfort to a busy day. Simple, healthy, and budget-friendly, they remind me that good food doesn’t need fancy ingredients, just love and a few pantry staples.
If you enjoy recipes like this, you’ll love trying more canned salmon recipes and canned tuna recipes. They’re great for quick, affordable meals that don’t skimp on nutrition or flavor. Whether it’s pasta, sandwiches, or easy homemade patties like these, canned fish is always a wonderful ingredient to keep in your kitchen.
