Delicious Lake Trout Fish Cakes: A Quick and Easy Recipe

A Flavorful Adventure in Homemade Lake Trout Fish Cakes

There’s something deeply satisfying about creating a dish from scratch, especially one that captures the essence of a fresh lake trout. Making crispy fish cakes with lake trout isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience, a tribute to flavors that remind you of lakeside gatherings, weekend fishing trips, and the joy of homemade food done right. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is your gateway to mastering a fish cake that’s golden, crispy, and full of flavor. Plus, it’s easier than you might think, even if you’ve never tried it before!

In this guide, you’ll discover the secrets to making perfect lake trout fish cakes, from selecting the right ingredients to frying them to crispy perfection. Let’s dive in and get you on your way to creating a meal that brings smiles and satisfaction to the table.

Ingredients for Lake Trout Fish Cakes Recipe

To make the best lake trout fish cakes, you’ll need a mix of fresh ingredients that come together to create that perfect bite. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Using these ingredients will ensure your fish cakes are light, flavorful, and crispy—qualities that make them stand out. Each ingredient has its role, from the potatoes that bind to the green onions and parsley that add freshness. Ready to start?

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lake Trout Fish Cakes

Step 1 – Prepare the Lake Trout Fillets

The first step is to handle the fish itself. Start by making sure your lake trout fillets are fresh, skinless, and deboned. If they’re not already prepared this way, carefully remove the skin with a knife and check for any small bones. Dry the fillets with a paper towel, as this helps them cook and flake better.

1. Step 1 – Get the Lake Trout Fillets Ready
2. Gently sprinkle salt and pepper over the fillets.
3. Bake for about 12–15 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork.

Once baked, allow the fillets to cool slightly. Then, use a fork to gently flake the fish into small, bite-sized pieces. This flaked fish is what gives your fish cakes a delicate texture.

Step 2 – Boil the Potatoes and Mash Them

While your fish is baking, take the time to prepare your potatoes. Russet potatoes work well here, providing a starchy texture that holds the fish cakes together without overpowering the flavor.

1. Peel and chop your potato into small pieces for faster boiling.
2. Boil in salted water for about 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
3. Drain and mash until smooth—avoid using milk or butter to keep them firm and not overly creamy.

Using mashed potatoes creates a creamy interior, balancing the fish and adding just the right amount of structure to the cakes.

Step 3 – Combine Ingredients

Now that you’ve got your flaked fish and mashed potatoes, it’s time to bring everything together.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked lake trout, mashed potatoes, chopped green onions, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the egg and fold gently. The egg acts as a binder, helping hold the cakes together without making them too dense.
3. Gradually add breadcrumbs until the mixture is cohesive but not too dry.

The key here is to fold the ingredients gently to keep the flaked fish intact, giving your fish cakes a satisfying texture that doesn’t feel over-processed.

Step 4 – Shape and Bread the Fish Cakes

Once the mixture is ready, it’s time to shape the cakes. This step is all about creating that perfect size for even cooking and optimal crispiness.

1. Take about a quarter cup of the mixture and form it into a patty about 3 inches wide.
2. Coat each patty lightly with breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for an extra crispy crust, but you can use regular breadcrumbs if preferred.

Shaping them evenly ensures they cook at the same rate and get that golden crust without breaking apart.

Step 5 – Fry to Golden Perfection

The last step is to pan-fry your fish cakes. A combination of olive oil and butter works wonders here, giving you that golden, crisp exterior while preserving the flavors inside.

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the fish cakes in the skillet, making sure not to crowd them.
3. Cook each side for 2–3 minutes, until golden brown.

This method provides an even, crispy exterior with a moist, flaky interior—exactly what you want in a fish cake!

Tips for Making the Crispiest Lake Trout Fish Cakes

To make sure your lake trout fish cakes turn out irresistibly crispy on the outside while staying moist and flavorful on the inside, here are some pro tips to keep in mind:

1. Start with Dry Ingredients

• Pat the Fish Dry: After removing the skin and bones, pat the lake trout fillets thoroughly with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Extra moisture can cause steam while frying, which prevents the crust from becoming crispy and may make the cakes soggy.
• Dry Potatoes: After boiling the potatoes, allow them to cool slightly and let any excess moisture evaporate before mashing. This keeps the texture of the cakes firm without becoming mushy or overly starchy.

2. Don’t Overwork the Mixture

• When mixing the flaked fish with the potatoes and other ingredients, stir gently. Overmixing can break down the fish too much, causing the cakes to lose their texture and become dense. By handling the mixture with a light touch, you’ll keep the flaky fish intact, resulting in a more delicate and satisfying bite.

3. Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Superior Crispiness

• Why Panko Works Best: Panko breadcrumbs are larger and airier than traditional breadcrumbs, creating a crunchy crust that doesn’t absorb too much oil. For a golden, crispy coating, coat the outside of each fish cake with panko instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
• Alternative Options: If panko is not available, crushed cornflakes or finely crushed saltine crackers also work well and add a nice crunch to the fish cakes.

4. Chill the Fish Cakes Before Frying

• After shaping, place the fish cakes in the refrigerator to chill for 15–30 minutes before frying.This helps the ingredients bind together better, making it less likely that the cakes will fall apart in the pan. The chilling also firms up the cakes, which results in a crisper exterior when cooked.

5. Choose the Right Oil and Maintain Heat

• Cooking Oil Choice: Use oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil, canola oil, or a mix of olive oil and butter. Olive oil and butter provide flavor but can burn quickly, so a high-smoke-point oil ensures a crispy crust without burning.
• Temperature Control: Maintain the heat at medium to medium-high. If the oil gets too hot, the cakes may brown too quickly without fully cooking through.Too low, and the fish cakes will absorb more oil, making them greasy instead of crispy.To check if the oil is ready, drop in a small breadcrumb—if it sizzles right away, the oil is hot enough.

6. Avoid Overcrowding the Pan

• When frying, give each fish cake enough space in the pan. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, which can lead to soggy cakes. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain that perfect golden crust.

7. Drain Properly After Frying

• Place the cooked fish cakes on a wire rack set over a baking sheet rather than directly on paper towels, which can cause steam to form underneath, making the bottom less crispy. This helps air circulate, keeping all sides of the fish cakes crispy and crunchy.

8. Consider a Final Oven Crisp

• If you’re making a large batch, you can keep the fish cakes warm and add extra crispiness by placing them in a preheated oven at 200°F for up to 10 minutes after frying. This helps them stay warm and maintains the crunch without overcooking.

Suggested Pairings and Serving Ideas for Lake Trout Fish Cakes

To bring out the full flavor of crispy lake trout fish cakes, thoughtful pairings and creative serving ideas can take this dish from simple to spectacular. Here are some ways to enhance your fish cakes with sauces, sides, and presentations that balance flavors and textures for an unforgettable meal.

1. Perfect Sauces for Dipping and Drizzling

A sauce can elevate the flavor profile of fish cakes and add a fresh, creamy, or tangy element that complements the savory taste of the lake trout. Here are a few ideal sauces for dipping or drizzling:

• Lemon Dill Aioli: This creamy sauce combines mayonnaise, lemon juice, fresh dill, and a hint of garlic. The citrusy and herby notes brighten the fish cakes, balancing the richness of the trout.
• Classic Tartar Sauce: A mix of mayonnaise, diced pickles, capers, and lemon juice, tartar sauce offers a zesty, slightly tangy contrast that pairs perfectly with crispy fish.
• Spicy Remoulade: This sauce adds a kick with ingredients like mayo, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and hot sauce. The mild heat and smokiness complement the fish cakes beautifully without overwhelming them.
• Yogurt and Herb Dip: For a lighter option, mix Greek yogurt with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and dill, and add a squeeze of lemon. This dip is both refreshing and creamy, balancing the richness of the fish cakes.

2. Side Dishes to Complete the Meal

To create a balanced plate, consider sides that provide a mix of textures, flavors, and colors. These side dishes work well alongside fish cakes and add interest to your meal.

• Simple Mixed Greens Salad: A salad of arugula, baby spinach, and mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette adds a light and refreshing counterpoint to the fish cakes. Adding radishes, cherry tomatoes, or thinly sliced cucumbers gives the dish a vibrant, crisp texture.
• Roasted Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: Roasted baby potatoes or sweet potato wedges are hearty yet simple sides that complement the fish cakes. Season them with herbs like rosemary or thyme and a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor.
• Coleslaw: Traditional or vinegar-based coleslaw provides a crunchy and tangy contrast to the fish cakes. The creamy coleslaw option adds richness, while a vinegar-based slaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a dash of apple cider vinegar offers a lighter, refreshing bite.
• Grilled or Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a fresh, green touch to the plate. The slight bitterness of asparagus pairs well with the savory fish cakes, and it provides a colorful visual contrast on the plate.

3. Creative Serving Ideas for Fish Cakes

Fish cakes are versatile, so consider serving them in a variety of presentations to suit different dining occasions, from casual to elegant.

• Sliders or Sandwiches: For a casual meal, serve the fish cakes on slider buns with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of sauce. This transforms them into fish cake sliders, making them great for gatherings or even as a fun weeknight meal.
• On a Bed of Greens: For a lighter option, place the fish cakes on a bed of mixed greens with a side of dressing or aioli. This presentation keeps the meal light and fresh, ideal for lunch or a starter.
• Fish Cake Platter: Create a seafood-inspired sharing platter by pairing fish cakes with a variety of sauces, lemon wedges, and a mix of fresh vegetables. Add mini pickles, olives, and perhaps even smoked salmon or other seafood treats for an impressive, shareable plate.
• Fish Cake Benedict: For brunch, serve the fish cakes as the base for a twist on eggs benedict. Top each fish cake with a poached egg and drizzle with hollandaise sauce for a luxurious brunch dish that’s rich and flavorful.

4. Drinks to Pair with Lake Trout Fish Cakes

Pairing drinks with fish cakes can round out the dining experience, and a well-chosen beverage will enhance the flavors.

• White Wine: A crisp, refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Grigio complements the fish cakes without overpowering them. The acidity in these wines cuts through the richness and adds a fruity or citrusy note that balances the flavors.
• Sparkling Wine or Champagne: For a celebratory touch, sparkling wine or Champagne pairs beautifully with fish cakes. The bubbles cleanse the palate and add a lightness that matches the dish’s crispy texture.
• Beer Pairings: For a casual option, choose a light lager or pale ale. These beers have a mild flavor that won’t overshadow the fish and have a crisp finish that works well with fried foods.
• Non-Alcoholic Options: Iced green tea with lemon, sparkling water with a slice of lime, or a non-alcoholic ginger beer all make excellent refreshing options that don’t compete with the flavor of the fish cakes.

5. Garnishing Tips for Extra Appeal

Small garnishes can elevate the presentation and add subtle layers of flavor and color:

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley, dill, or chives over the fish cakes before serving for an herbaceous pop of color.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a splash of acidity, allowing guests to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their fish cakes as desired.
• Microgreens: Adding a handful of microgreens on top of each fish cake or around the plate brings a gourmet touch and subtle earthiness.
• Capers: Capers provide a briny, tangy bite that complements the richness of the fish cakes and enhances their overall flavor profile.

Experimenting with these pairings and serving ideas can turn your crispy lake trout fish cakes into a versatile, impressive dish fit for any occasion!

Storing and Reheating Lake Trout Fish Cakes

Leftovers are a treat! Here’s how to store and reheat your fish cakes so they stay fresh and crispy:

How to Store Leftover Fish Cakes

1. Let the fish cakes cool completely.
2. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze them:

1. Place the cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until they are firm.
2. Move them to a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Best Way to Reheat Fish Cakes

To retain crispiness:

• Oven: Place fish cakes on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of oil for a few minutes on each side.

FAQ – Lake Trout Fish Cakes Recipe

Is it possible to use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other mild-flavored fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia if lake trout isn’t available. Each will provide a slightly different flavor, but the technique remains the same.

Can I make these fish cakes in advance?

Absolutely. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. You can also shape the cakes, then freeze them for easy future cooking.

How can I make these fish cakes gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs, and verify that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What’s the best way to ensure the fish cakes don’t fall apart?

Ensuring that your fish is dry and not overmixed is key. Additionally, chilling the cakes for 15 minutes before frying will help them hold their shape during cooking.

These lake trout fish cakes are a delicious way to turn fresh fish into a flavorful, crispy meal that’s perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or even a quick lunch. They’re simple to make, loaded with fresh ingredients, and packed with satisfying flavors. Plus, you can make them your own by experimenting with herbs and sauces to find the perfect combination.