Salmon Burger

Salmon Burger with Breaded Eggplant: A Unique Culinary Experience

This salmon burger with breaded eggplant is an innovative recipe that combines the flavors of the sea with a touch of earthiness, bringing a splash of creativity to your plate. Far from traditional buns, the crispy eggplants are what will hold this delicious burger together, creating a fantastic combination of textures and flavors. Additionally, it is an excellent option for those looking to reduce carbohydrates or incorporate more vegetables into their diet.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

*For the salmon burger:*
- 300 g fresh salmon fillet
- Flesh from 5 slices of white bread
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Juice and zest of half a lemon
- 1 egg

*For the breaded eggplants:*
- 2 white eggplants
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt and freshly ground white pepper
- A few slices of white bread for panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- Sunflower oil for frying

*Additionally:*
- Fresh tomatoes
- Mozzarella or cheese
- Tomato sauce (I recommend a homemade pizza sauce for an authentic taste)

A Bit of History:
The burger is a dish that has gained popularity worldwide, typically associated with beef. However, with a slight modification, it can become a remarkable culinary experience using fish. This recipe pays homage to culinary creativity, demonstrating that burgers can be successfully adapted to any ingredient.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the salmon:
Start by preparing the salmon. In a pot, add about 700 ml of water, salt, and a few peppercorns. Place the pot on the stove and bring the water close to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the piece of salmon. Turn off the heat and let the salmon sit in the water for 10 minutes. This step will make the fish tender and flavorful.

2. Preparing the panko breadcrumbs:
Panko breadcrumbs add a unique crunchy texture, and if you can’t find them in stores, you can make them at home. Tear the flesh from the slices of bread into small pieces and place them in a food processor. Blend until they turn into fine breadcrumbs. Then, spread them on a tray and let them dry in the oven set at 60-70 degrees Celsius.

3. Preparing the breaded eggplants:
Wash the eggplants with their skin and dry them with a towel. Cut them into thick slices of about 1 cm. Sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for 20 minutes. This will help remove the bitter juice. After they have rested, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess water.
In a bowl, mix the egg, milk, flour, salt, and pepper to obtain a batter similar to pancake batter. Dip each eggplant slice into this batter, then into the panko breadcrumbs, and fry them in hot oil until golden and crispy on both sides. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

4. Preparing the salmon burgers:
Once the salmon has cooled slightly, place it on a wooden board. Remove the skin and break it into small pieces with your hands. Add the crushed garlic, salt, pepper, panko breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped parsley, and lemon juice and zest. Mix the ingredients well, then form the burgers, making sure they are slightly thicker.

5. Cooking the burgers:
In a grill pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the burgers and cook them until they are browned and crispy on both sides, about 4-5 minutes on each side.

6. Assembling the burgers:
Take a slice of breaded eggplant and spread it with tomato sauce. Add a slice of tomato, followed by a slice of mozzarella. Place a salmon burger on top, another slice of tomato, and mozzarella, finishing with another slice of eggplant spread with sauce on the inside.
To enhance the flavor, you can place the burger in the microwave for 2-3 minutes so that the mozzarella melts slightly.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve this salmon burger with breaded eggplant alongside a fresh salad or crispy fries. A refreshing lemonade or fruit cocktail will perfectly complement the meal.

Tips and Tricks:
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can add spices like paprika or dried herbs to the burger mixture.
- If you prefer, you can use other types of fish, such as tuna or trout.
- Make sure the salmon is fresh, as its texture will make a difference in the dish.

Nutritional Benefits:
This salmon burger is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins such as vitamin D. Eggplants are also a good source of antioxidants and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables instead of eggplants?
Yes, you can try zucchini or potatoes for an equally delicious variant.

2. Can I prepare the salmon burgers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the burgers and freeze them. Cook them directly from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time.

3. What sauces can I use?
Sauces like aioli, tzatziki, or even a yogurt sauce with mint are excellent to accompany this burger.

I conclude with an invitation: Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and put your personal touch on this recipe! Enjoy your meal!