These Mary Berry Salmon Fish Cakes are crisp on the outside and beautifully soft in the centre, with delicate flakes of salmon and fluffy potato in every bite. Lightly seasoned with fresh herbs and a touch of lemon, they are full of flavour without being overpowering. This is an easy, family-friendly recipe that feels special enough for guests yet simple enough for a midweek supper. From start to finish, they take around 45 minutes to prepare and cook.
Ingredients
For the Fish Cakes
- 500g floury potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 300g salmon fillet, skin removed
- 25g butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For Coating
- 75g plain flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 100g fresh breadcrumbs
- Sunflower oil, for frying
How to Make Mary Berry Salmon Fish Cakes Recipe
- Prepare the potatoes: Place the potatoes in a pan of salted water and bring to the boil. Cook for about 15 minutes until tender. Drain thoroughly and mash until completely smooth. Leave to cool slightly.
- Cook the salmon: Put the salmon into a small pan with a splash of water. Cover and cook gently for 5–7 minutes until just cooked through. Remove from the pan, cool a little, then flake into large pieces.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potato, flaked salmon, butter, parsley, chives and lemon zest. Season well with salt and pepper. Mix gently so the salmon keeps some texture.
- Shape the fish cakes: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape into neat rounds. If the mixture feels soft, chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Coat the fish cakes: Place the flour on one plate. Mix the beaten egg with milk in a shallow bowl. Spread the breadcrumbs on another plate. Dip each fish cake into flour, then egg, and finally coat evenly in breadcrumbs.
- Cook until golden: Heat a thin layer of sunflower oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the fish cakes for 3–4 minutes on each side until crisp and golden brown. Drain on kitchen paper and serve hot.

Tips
Why are my fish cakes falling apart?
This usually happens if the mixture is too warm or too wet. Make sure the potatoes are well drained and allow the shaped cakes to chill before coating and frying.
How do I get a crisp coating?
Use fresh breadcrumbs and ensure the oil is properly heated before adding the fish cakes. Avoid turning them too early so a crust can form.
Can I use tinned salmon?
Yes, just drain it thoroughly and remove any skin or bones. The flavour will be slightly stronger but still delicious.
If You Enjoyed This Recipe Make Sure You Try The Delia Smith Cottage Pie Recipe
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad and lemon wedges
- Add a spoonful of tartare sauce or homemade mayonnaise
- Pair with steamed peas and buttery new potatoes
- Enjoy in a soft bun for a simple fish cake burger
Storage
Room Temperature
Best enjoyed freshly cooked. Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerator
Store cooked fish cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a frying pan or oven until piping hot.
Freezing
Freeze uncooked, coated fish cakes on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I bake the fish cakes instead of frying?
Yes, place them on a lined baking tray, brush lightly with oil and bake at 200°C or 180°C fan for about 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Can I prepare the fish cakes in advance?
Yes, shape and coat them, then keep covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
What type of potatoes work best?
Floury potatoes such as Maris Piper give a light, fluffy texture and help the cakes hold together well.
Can I add other herbs or flavourings?
You can add dill, a little Dijon mustard, or finely chopped spring onions for extra flavour without overpowering the salmon.
Mary Berry Salmon Fish Cakes Recipe
Course: Main CourseCuisine: BritishDifficulty: Easy8
fish cakes20
minutes25
minutes45
minutes320
kcal45
minutesCrisp golden salmon fish cakes with fluffy potato, fresh herbs and lemon. Easy, comforting and perfect for lunch or supper.
Ingredients
500g floury potatoes, peeled and chopped
300g salmon fillet, skin removed
25g butter
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
1 tsp grated lemon zest
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 egg, beaten
75g plain flour
100g fresh breadcrumbs
2–3 tbsp milk
Sunflower oil, for frying
Directions
- Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15 minutes until tender. Drain well and mash until smooth.
- Meanwhile, place the salmon in a small pan, add a splash of water, cover and gently cook for 5–7 minutes until just cooked through. Cool slightly, then flake.
- Mix mashed potato, flaked salmon, butter, herbs, lemon zest and seasoning until evenly combined.
- Shape into 8 even rounds. Chill for 15 minutes if time allows.
- Dip each fish cake into flour, then beaten egg mixed with milk, and finally coat in breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a frying pan and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and heated through.
Notes
- Chilling helps the fish cakes hold their shape.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a lighter coating.
- They can be made ahead and kept chilled before frying.
