Harissa Sesame Salmon Patties (Printable)
Golden crispy salmon patties infused with North African harissa paste and nutty sesame seeds, ready in just 30 minutes.
# What You Need:
→ Fish & Protein
01 - 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skinless and boneless
02 - 1 large egg
→ Aromatics & Flavor
03 - 2 tbsp harissa paste
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 2 scallions, finely sliced
06 - 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
07 - 1 tsp ground cumin
→ Binding & Crunch
08 - 4 tbsp panko breadcrumbs
09 - 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, plus extra for garnish
→ Seasoning
10 - ½ tsp salt
11 - ¼ tsp ground black pepper
→ For Frying
12 - 2 tbsp olive oil
# How to Make It:
01 - Cut the salmon into chunks and pulse in a food processor until a coarse mixture forms—not a paste. Transfer to a mixing bowl.
02 - Add harissa paste, minced garlic, scallions, cilantro, cumin, panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, salt, pepper, and the egg to the salmon. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
03 - With damp hands to prevent sticking, shape the mixture into 8 small patties. Sprinkle extra sesame seeds on top, pressing gently to adhere.
04 - Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
05 - Serve hot, garnished with extra cilantro sprigs or lemon wedges if desired. Pair with yogurt sauce, fresh salad, or stuff into pita bread.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The harissa brings this gentle heat that sneaks up on you and makes you want just one more bite
- These patties somehow manage to feel elegant enough for company while being casual enough for a Tuesday night
02 -
- Damp hands are the difference between patties that hold together and a frustrating sticky mess all over your fingers
- Do not overprocess the salmon or you will lose the texture that makes these feel like a proper meal
03 -
- Get your oil properly hot before adding the patties or they will stick and cook unevenly
- Let the patties rest in the pan for a full minute before trying to flip them or they will fall apart