Deliciously Crispy Homemade Croquettes Recipe

Ingredients

2 large potatoes
1/2 cup of milk
2 tablespoons of butter
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
1/2 cup of chopped onions
1 cup of diced ham
2 eggs
1 cup of breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying

Steps and instructions

Peel and boil the potatoes until they are tender.
Drain the potatoes and mash them with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
In a pan, saute the onions and ham until the onions are translucent.
Mix the sauteed onions and ham into the mashed potatoes.
Shape the mixture into small oval shapes, about the size of an egg.
Beat the eggs in a bowl and put the breadcrumbs in a separate bowl.
Dip each oval into the egg, then roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat.
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer.
Fry the breaded ovals until they are golden brown on all sides.
Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Tools for making

Potatoes - You will need 2 large potatoes for this recipe.
Milk - 1/2 cup of milk is required to make the mashed potatoes.
Butter - 2 tablespoons of butter will be used to make the mashed potatoes rich and creamy.
Salt - Add salt to taste for seasoning the mashed potatoes and croquettes.
Pepper - Add pepper to taste for seasoning the mashed potatoes and croquettes.
Onions - 1/2 cup of chopped onions will be sauteed and mixed into the mashed potatoes.
Ham - 1 cup of diced ham is used to add flavor and texture to the croquettes.
Eggs - 2 eggs are needed for dipping the croquettes before coating them with breadcrumbs.
Breadcrumbs - 1 cup of breadcrumbs will be used to coat the croquettes for a crispy exterior.
Vegetable oil - Vegetable oil is required for frying the croquettes until golden brown.

Recipe variations

Replace the diced ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor.
Try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist.
Add shredded cheese to the mashed potato mixture for a cheesy filling.
For a vegetarian option, omit the ham and add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Experiment with different seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs like thyme or parsley.
Instead of breadcrumbs, try using crushed cornflakes or panko crumbs for a crunchier coating.
Make a spicy version by adding chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the mashed potato mixture.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal as a coating.
Try baking the croquettes in the oven instead of frying them for a healthier alternative.
Serve the croquettes with dipping sauces like aioli, barbecue sauce, or sweet chili sauce.

Recipe overview

This delightful Croquettes recipe brings together a savory combination of potatoes, ham, and onions, all encased in a crispy breadcrumb shell. The dish is a popular snack in many cultures and offers a satisfying bite with a creamy interior. Preparing these croquettes involves boiling and mashing potatoes, sautéing onions and ham, combining the ingredients, and then shaping and frying the mixture. The result is a golden brown, perfectly crunchy exterior with a soft and flavorful interior. Enjoy these croquettes as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They are sure to impress at your next gathering or family meal.

Common questions

Can I use different types of potatoes? Yes, you can use different types of potatoes for this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste of the croquettes may vary depending on the type of potato used.
Can I substitute the ham with another meat? Yes, you can substitute the ham with other meats such as cooked chicken or turkey if you prefer.
Can I oven-bake the croquettes instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the croquettes in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded croquettes on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Can I make the croquettes ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the croquettes ahead of time and refrigerate them. Simply follow all the steps until shaping the mixture into ovals. Place the shaped croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, proceed with the frying or baking step.
Can I freeze the croquettes? Yes, you can freeze the croquettes for future use. After shaping the croquettes, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Then transfer the frozen croquettes to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw the croquettes in the refrigerator overnight before frying or baking.

Serving dishes and utensils

Potato Peeler - A tool used to peel the potatoes.
Potato masher - A tool used to mash the boiled potatoes.
Frying pan - A pan used to sauté the onions and ham.
Bowl - Used for beating the eggs and for coating the croquettes with breadcrumbs.
Deep pan or fryer - Used for frying the croquettes.
Paper towels - Used to drain the fried croquettes.

Origin stories

Croquettes, these delightful golden morsels, have a history as rich and varied as the ingredients nestled within their crispy exterior. They find their origin in France, created by none other than the esteemed culinary maestro Antonin Carême. He served them in the early 19th century to the glitterati of the time, as a part of elaborate "pieces montées". However, they truly found their home when they traveled south to Spain, where they morphed into the renown tapa, "croquetas". These humble bites, a symbol of resourcefulness, often encapsulate leftovers from a grand meal, ensuring nothing goes to waste. From the grandeur of French fine dining to the homely coziness of Spanish tapas, croquettes indeed have traversed an interesting culinary journey, much like the journey they take from plate to palate.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.