Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers

Let me take a moment to introduce you to Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers—crispy, golden, and absolutely irresistible. This isn’t your average fish stick; this is next-level comfort food that brings together flaky salmon and a crispy, seasoned coating. Imagine dipping these beauties in a tangy sauce or pairing them with some crispy fries—yum! Trust me, once you try these, you’ll never look at store-bought fish fingers the same way again. They’re perfect for a cozy family dinner, a fun meal for the kids, or a light and satisfying snack.

Plus, they’re super easy to make, and you can feel good about serving these because you’re using fresh, wholesome ingredients. So whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, these homemade salmon fish fingers are here to impress!

Why You’ll Love Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers

Here’s why these Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers will become your new go-to:

Quick and Easy: You’ll have crispy, golden fish fingers ready to enjoy in less than 30 minutes. Minimal prep, maximum flavor!

Fresh and Flavorful: Using fresh salmon means you’re getting rich flavor, tender fish, and all those healthy omega-3 fatty acids—without any of the preservatives or artificial ingredients found in store-bought versions.

Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings to your taste—add some cayenne for heat, or throw in fresh herbs like dill for an extra punch of flavor.

Kid-Friendly: These are a fantastic way to get kids to eat more fish! The crispy exterior and tender, flaky salmon inside make them totally approachable for little ones.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a weekend treat, or a fun appetizer for a gathering, these fish fingers work beautifully in any setting.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers

Here’s what you’ll need to make these crispy, flavorful salmon fish fingers:

Fresh Salmon Fillets

The star of the show! Fresh salmon is tender and full of flavor. Make sure to remove the skin and any bones before using it.

Panko Breadcrumbs

For that super crunchy texture. Panko breadcrumbs are light and crispy, perfect for coating the fish fingers.

Flour

Flour helps the egg wash stick to the fish and gives the fish a nice light coating before frying.

Egg

Egg is your binder for the breadcrumbs and flour, ensuring that crispy, golden crust.

Seasoning

A combination of salt, pepper, and your favorite spices will elevate the fish fingers. A bit of garlic powder, paprika, and dried herbs like parsley or thyme work wonders.

Lemon Zest (Optional)

A little zing of lemon zest adds a fresh, citrusy note that complements the rich flavor of the salmon.

Olive Oil or Butter

For frying—this adds richness and helps achieve the golden, crispy exterior.

Tartar Sauce (Optional for dipping)

This classic sauce is a great pairing for fish fingers, but feel free to get creative with your dip of choice!

Instructions

Let’s get to the fun part—making these homemade fish fingers!

Prepare the Salmon

Start by cutting your fresh salmon fillets into long strips, about the size of a standard fish finger. Make sure to remove any skin and bones if you haven’t already done so.

Set Up Your Dipping Station

In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In another shallow bowl, whisk the egg. And in the third, place the panko breadcrumbs mixed with your seasonings—salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any herbs you’re using. If you’re adding lemon zest, toss that in the breadcrumb mixture too!

Coat the Salmon

Dredge each piece of salmon first in the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Next, dip it in the egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, it’s time to fry!

Cook the Fish Fingers

Carefully place the coated fish fingers in the hot skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re done when they’re perfectly golden on the outside, and the salmon inside is cooked through but still juicy and tender.

Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the fish fingers from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce—tartar sauce is a classic, but feel free to get creative with garlic mayo, aioli, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320 kcal (estimate)
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 450mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 23g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers

These salmon fish fingers are delicious all on their own, but here are a few ideas to make your meal extra special:

• With a Side Salad: Serve your fish fingers with a light, fresh salad, like a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• With Crispy Fries: Classic and comforting—pair with crispy homemade fries or sweet potato fries for the ultimate treat.
• With Coleslaw: The creamy crunch of coleslaw makes for a perfect side dish to balance out the crispy fish fingers.
• As a Sandwich: Serve them in a soft bun with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of tartar sauce for a delicious fish finger sandwich.
• With Dipping Sauces: Try tartar sauce, ketchup, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for some extra flavor.

Additional Tips

• For Extra Crispiness: Double-coat the fish fingers for an even crunchier texture. After the first coating, dip them back in the egg and breadcrumbs for a thicker crust.
• Use Fresh Salmon: While canned salmon can work in a pinch, fresh salmon gives the best flavor and texture for this dish.
• Oven-Baked Option: If you prefer to bake them instead of frying, place the coated fish fingers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray with a bit of cooking oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly and pat it dry before using.

Q2: Can I make these fish fingers in advance?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the fish fingers, coat them, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just fry them up when you’re ready for a quick and easy meal.

Q3: How do I keep the fish fingers crispy?
A3: To keep them crispy, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, and consider placing them on a cooling rack after frying to prevent them from getting soggy.

Q4: Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
A4: Yes! You can use cod, haddock, or any white fish that’s firm and flaky. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different fish might cook at slightly different rates.

Q5: Can I bake these fish fingers instead of frying them?
A5: Yes! Simply bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Q6: What sauces can I serve with these fish fingers?
A6: Tartar sauce, garlic mayo, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a simple squeeze of lemon are all great options!

Q7: Can I make these fish fingers gluten-free?
A7: Yes! Substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and use a gluten-free flour option to make them suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Q8: How can I make these fish fingers healthier?
A8: Try baking them instead of frying and using less oil to cut down on calories and fat. You could also use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber.

Q9: Can I use canned salmon?
A9: Yes, canned salmon works in a pinch, though fresh salmon will give the best flavor and texture.

Q10: Can I freeze these fish fingers?
A10: Yes! Once they’re fully cooked and cooled, freeze them in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.

Conclusion

These Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers are the perfect balance of crispy, tender, and flavorful. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you serve them with a side salad, fries, or a creamy dip, they’ll be the star of the show. Make them once, and they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!

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