Actually Delicious Asian Salmon Cakes

What image comes to mind when you think of a fish cake? Pre-this recipe, I envisioned  smelly amalgams of gloppy mayo, stale bread crumbs and lumpy gray tuna. A dish that would feel right at home next to Cream of Mushroom Casserole, served on a ceramic table with red vinyl placemats.

Basically, all things just, NO. So why on Earth did I have any remote interest in creating a fish cake of my own?

Because necessity is the mother of invention. And I live in a landlocked state, where wild salmon filets are either 1) unpredictable, if I buy them frozen locally or 2) astronomically expensive, when ordered online (I love Vital Choice, but it's a treat).

AND because I won't settle for a life without the incredibly nourishing benefits of wild salmon. This true "Superfood" is chock full of Vitamin B12 (for making blood cells and DNA) and Vitamin D (bone and brain health), both common deficiencies in our country. The anti-inflammatory, easily absorbed Omega-3 fats have been shown to help with joint pain, neurological repair, reversing atheroscelorsis/heart disease and poor eyesight. Plus, they help skin stay soft and supple. Also, of course, it's a fantastic source of quality protein.

Thus, a few weeks ago, I steeled myself and two cans of wild sockeye salmon for a culinary adventure in the LL Balanced Kitchen.

And oh how glad I am!!!

These salmon cakes are INCREDIBLE. I chose an Asian profile, because it's pretty difficult to go wrong with ginger, soy and sesame, but they still exceeded my expectations in every way. My Asian Salmon Cakes are moist and tender, the perfect balanced of savory and sweet, and the flavors are pronounced without overwhelming the mild salmon.

My one caveat is that you really must choose a high-quality wild salmon. Not only is farmed salmon lacking in much of the good nutrition described above, but it's not going to have the fresh, subtle flavor found in wild salmon. I like Wild Planet and Vital Choice brands. You could also try this recipe with canned tuna! I haven't done it myself, but I don't see why it wouldn't be tasty.

So seriously guys, next time you want to get some seafood into yourself and your family, give these salmon cakes a try. I bet they become a regular on the menu!