What Salmon Can Do For You
Salmon is a popular food. Consuming salmon is considered to be healthy due to the fish’s high protein, high Omega-3 fatty acids, and high vitamin D content. Salmon is also a source of cholesterol, ranging 23–214 mg/100g depending on the species. According to reports in the journal Science, however, farmed salmon may contain high levels of dioxins. PCB (polychlorinated biphenyl) levels may be up to eight times higher in farmed salmon than in wild salmon. Nonetheless, according to a 2006 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the benefits of eating even farmed salmon still outweigh any risks imposed by contaminants  Type of Omega 3 present may not be a factor for other important health functions.

Most fishcakes I’ve ever eaten comprise loads of mashed potato and just a few flakes of fish. This version is very different - firm, full of fish and not even a hint of potato. The fishcakes take only a few minutes to prepare in a food processor.

•  300g skinless salmon fillets
•  A chunk of day old crusty bread (a 3 inch piece of baguette would do nicely)
•  1 tbls chopped chives
•  1 tbls chopped fresh parsley
•  Half a small red pepper diced
•  A small piece of red chilli, chopped (optional)
•  Salt and pepper
•  Plain flour
•  Oil - use a flavourless oil such as sunflower

1. Whiz the bread in a food processor until you have fine crumbs. Next, add the chives, parsley, red pepper and chilli and whiz some more until everything is well blended. Finally, cut the salmon into chunks and add these to the processor with a little salt and pepper. Pulse the processor two or three times until the fish is well blended with the other ingredients. It is important not to over-process the mixture at this stage or you will end up with a soggy mush.

2. On a large plate, mix the flour with a little salt and pepper. Take a dessert spoonful of the salmon mixture and use your hands to form a small round patty about 1cm thick, then dip in the seasoned flour. Repeat until you have used up all the mixture (There should be enough for 8-10 fishcakes).

3. Heat a little oil in a large frying pan and fry the fishcakes for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Serve hot with a crisp green salad, crusty bread and alioli.

Serves: 2

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes