Harissa Sesame Salmon Patties (Printable)
Crispy salmon patties with North African harissa and toasted sesame for a spicy, aromatic twist on classic fish cakes.
# 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 Cook:
01 - Cut the salmon into chunks and pulse in a food processor until a coarse mixture forms—not a paste.
02 - Transfer the salmon to a bowl. Add harissa paste, minced garlic, scallions, cilantro, cumin, panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix until just combined.
03 - With damp hands, shape the mixture into 8 small patties. Sprinkle extra sesame seeds on top for garnish, 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 or lemon wedges if desired.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The harissa creates this incredible depth that makes store-bought salmon patties taste completely forgettable
- They come together in under 30 minutes but taste like something youd order at a restaurant that takes reservations
02 -
- Too much harissa can overwhelm the salmon—start with 1 tablespoon if youre unsure about heat levels
- Dont make these too thick or the outside will burn before the inside cooks through
03 -
- Pat the salmon completely dry before processing—wet salmon makes gummy patties
- Test one patty first and adjust the seasoning before shaping the rest