Crispy Fish Patties (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredient

01 - 15 oz salmon flakes (or 3 cans of 5-oz canned salmon, drained and flaked)

→ Dry Ingredients

02 - 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Wet Ingredients

07 - 1/2 green bell pepper, cut in cubes
08 - 1/2 red bell pepper, cut in cubes
09 - 1 egg, lightly beaten
10 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
11 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
12 - 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
13 - 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

# Instructions:

01 - Gather and pre-measure all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
02 - If using fresh cooked salmon, ensure it's cooled slightly and flake it gently using two forks, maintaining a chunky texture. For canned salmon, drain thoroughly, remove any skin or bones, and flake gently with a fork without overworking it.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk together the breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to ensure even distribution.
04 - In a separate bowl, combine the flaked salmon, diced bell peppers, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, chopped cilantro, and lightly beaten egg.
05 - Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid over-mixing. The mixture should be moist but hold its shape - if too wet, add more breadcrumbs a tablespoon at a time.
06 - For better shaping, refrigerate the mixture for 15-20 minutes.
07 - With slightly wet hands, form the mixture into evenly sized balls or flattened patties.
08 - Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat (about 350°F/175°C). Fry croquettes in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate to drain.
09 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place croquettes on a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flip, then bake another 10-12 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
10 - Let cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce like tartar sauce, lemon aioli, or remoulade.

# Notes:

01 - For extra crispy baked croquettes, brush with a bit of melted butter or oil before baking.
02 - The mixture should be moist but able to hold its shape. If it's too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
03 - Chilling the mixture for 15-20 minutes helps the croquettes hold their shape during cooking.
04 - When frying, don't overcrowd the pan - work in batches to maintain proper oil temperature.