What can I substitute for bread crumbs in salmon patties? (2024)

Salmon patties are a classic dish that are often bound together with breadcrumbs. However, if you find yourself without breadcrumbs, there are a variety of substitutions you can use instead. The key is to find an ingredient that will act as a binder and hold the patties together just like breadcrumbs would. Let’s explore some of the best options for breadcrumb substitutes when making salmon patties.

Using Crackers

Crackers make an easy substitution for breadcrumbs in salmon patties. You can use any type of cracker you have on hand – saltines, Ritz crackers, graham crackers etc. The key is to crush them up into fine crumbs that can bind the patties together. Here are some tips for using crackers in salmon patties:

• Place crackers in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin to crush into fine crumbs.
• You’ll generally need about 1 cup of crushed crackers for every 1 cup of breadcrumbs called for.
• Consider seasoning the crackers with garlic powder, onion powder, dill, or other spices for extra flavor.
• Make sure to crush the crackers finely so they bind the patties and don’t leave large chunks.

Crackers make a handy pantry staple to substitute for breadcrumbs. Just about any type will work well to hold salmon patties together.

Trying Out Oats

Rolled or old-fashioned oats can also substitute for breadcrumbs when making salmon patties. Oats have a very similar binding quality to help hold the patties together. Here’s how to use oats:

• Pulse rolled oats in a food processor until they reach a fine, crumb-like texture.
• You can substitute oats measure for measure in place of breadcrumbs.
• Consider adding seasonings like garlic powder, dill, pepper, or parsley to the oats.
• Make sure the oats are broken down well so they act as a binder in the patties.

Oats make a handy substitute that many home cooks already have on hand. Their neutral flavor also lets the salmon shine through.

Using Panko Breadcrumbs

Panko breadcrumbs are a variety of Japanese-style breadcrumb that creates an extra crispy crust. If you have panko in your pantry, you can use it to substitute for regular breadcrumbs in salmon patties. Here are some tips:

• Use the same measured amount of panko as you would regular breadcrumbs.
• Panko will create a crunchier texture than soft breadcrumbs.
• Consider mixing panko with another substitute like crackers or oats to soften the texture.
• Brush the patties with oil or melted butter to get maximum crispiness from the panko.

Panko is a handy way to still get those breadcrumb textures and flavors if you’re out of regular breadcrumbs. The extra crunch can be a fun twist on classic salmon patties too.

Trying Out Nuts

Finely chopped or ground nuts can also substitute for breadcrumbs when you’re looking for grain-free options. Nuts have healthy fats that can help hold the salmon patties together. Here are some of the best nuts to try:

• Almonds – Blanched almonds can be finely ground into a great breadcrumb replacement. Their mild flavor lets the salmon shine.
• Walnuts – Walnuts bring a hearty, earthy quality similar to whole wheat breadcrumbs.
• Pecans – Pecans have a sweetness that complements salmon beautifully.
• Pistachios – Bright green pistachios give fun color and buttery flavor.

Nuts make a nourishing substitute, while delivering healthy fats and protein. Try mixing two types together for extra flavor and crunch.

Using Flaxseed Meal

Flaxseed meal is a powder made from ground flaxseeds that can serve as an egg and binder substitute in recipes like salmon patties. Here are some tips for using flax meal:

• Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal whisked with 3 tablespoons water to replace 1 egg.
• The ground flaxseeds act as a binder to hold the patties together.
• Flax meal adds fiber and omega-3s while keeping the patties grain-free.
• You can find flax meal in the baking aisle or grind whole flaxseeds yourself.

Flaxseed meal adds great nutritional value to salmon patties while helping glue the mixture together. It’s an ideal pick for grain-free and paleo diets.

Trying Out Chia Seeds

Like flaxseeds, chia seeds also have properties that allow them to gel and bind. Here is how you can use chia in salmon patties:

• Whisk 1 tablespoon chia seeds with 3 tablespoons water and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
• Once gelled, the chia and water mixture substitutes for 1 egg as a binder.
• Chia seeds add fiber, protein, and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
• If you don’t have chia on hand, try substituting ground psyllium husks the same way.

Chia and psyllium make great vegan substitutes for egg as a binding agent. They add extra nutrition while helping hold the salmon patties together.

Considering Nutritional Yeast

Nutritional yeast is a vegan substitute that mimics the flavor and binding properties of cheese. Here’s how to use it:

• Substitute nutritional yeast for breadcrumbs measure for measure.
• The yeast flakes have a savory, cheesy umami flavor.
• Nutritional yeast gives patties a tender interior with a crispy browned exterior.
• Sprinkle on some extra yeast flakes at the end for flavor and crunch.

Nutritional yeast is a versatile vegan substitute that lends lots of savory flavor. It binds well and gives a satisfying crispness when pan-fried. Keep in mind that it does have a stronger flavor profile than breadcrumbs.

Trying Out Potato Flakes

Dehydrated potato flakes are an easy substitute for breadcrumbs that many home cooks have in their pantry. Here are some tips for using them:

• Rehydrate the flakes in a bit of milk or water first to activate the starches.
• Substitute rehydrated flakes measure for measure in place of breadcrumbs.
• The potato flakes help bind the patties while also browning and crisping nicely.
• Season the flakes with salt, pepper, herbs and spices to add more flavor.

Potato flakes are an easy substitution to consider that gives great binding power and crisps up beautifully when pan-fried. Keep in mind that they will impart some potato flavor.

Thinking Outside the Box

If you still don’t have any suitable breadcrumb substitutes on hand, think creatively about what ingredients could work. Here are a few outside the box ideas:

• Rice – Cooked and mashed rice can help bind patties.
• Oatmeal – Dry oatmeal can be pulsed into crumbs in the food processor.
• Cornflakes – Crushed cornflakes add crispiness.
• Seeds – Ground seeds like sunflower or pepitas bind patties.
• Legumes – Cooked beans can be mashed and used in patties.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with whatever food staples you have around. The options are limitless. Focus on finding a binder that will hold the salmon together.

Tips for Making the Best Salmon Patties

Now that you know the many options for substituting breadcrumbs in salmon patties, here are some tips for making the best patties:

• Choose wild-caught salmon for the healthiest omega-3s.
• Chop or shred the salmon into small pieces for the best consistency.
• Season the patties boldly with spices, herbs, garlic, etc.
• Chill the patties for 10-30 minutes before frying to help them hold together.
• Pan fry over medium-high heat in olive oil or coconut oil.
• Cook until deeply golden brown on both sides.
• Serve salmon patties on buns, over salad, or with sour cream or tatziki sauce.

By nailing down the right binder and seasoning, you can make delicious salmon patties using whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative with substitutions!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of breadcrumbs in salmon patties?

Yes, Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for breadcrumbs in salmon patties. Use about 1/4 cup yogurt per 1 cup breadcrumbs. The yogurt helps bind the patties and adds moisture. Make sure to drain excess liquid from the yogurt so the patties don’t get too wet.

Is it OK to use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs?

Definitely! Almond flour is a great gluten-free, grain-free sub for breadcrumbs in salmon patties. Replace measure for measure. The almond flour binds well and provides a light texture and nutty flavor.

What can I use if I don’t have any breadcrumb substitutes on hand?

In a pinch, you can pulse foods like oats, nuts, crackers, seeds, rice, or cornflakes in the food processor to create DIY breadcrumb substitutes. You can also try mashed potato, cooked rice, or mashed beans to help bind patties.

Do I need an egg when making salmon patties without breadcrumbs?

Eggs help bind and add moisture to patties, so it helps to include 1 egg per 1 cup of breadcrumbs. If avoiding eggs, substitute 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal whisked with 3 tablespoons water. Beans, oats, or chia seeds also bind patties without needing eggs.

What is the best way to cook salmon patties without breadcrumbs?

Pan-frying is the best cooking method for patties without breadcrumbs. Heat 1-2 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat. Cook patties 3-4 minutes per side until deeply golden. Baking also works well. Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

With some creative substitutions, you can make delicious salmon patties even without breadcrumbs. Ingredients like crushed crackers, oats, nuts, seeds, and flours mimic the binding power of breadcrumbs so your patties hold together. Season the patties boldly and pan-fry or bake until browned. With the right substitute and cooking method, you can enjoy outstanding salmon patties without missing the breadcrumbs one bit.