Homemade Dutch Krokets: A Classic Snack Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded cooked beef
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup dry breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Steps and instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the flour to the melted butter and stir until a thick paste forms. This is called a roux.
  3. Slowly whisk in the beef broth to the roux. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens.
  4. Add the salt and pepper and stir well.
  5. Add the shredded beef to the saucepan and mix until the beef is well coated with the mixture. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  6. Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, shape it into small cylinders.
  7. Beat the eggs in a bowl. In a separate bowl, pour the breadcrumbs.
  8. Dip each cylinder in the beaten eggs, then roll them in the breadcrumbs, making sure they are well coated.
  9. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the breaded cylinders until they are golden brown. Be careful not to crowd the pan.
  10. Once fried, remove the krokets from the oil and drain them on paper towels.

Tools for making

  • Saucepan - Used to melt the butter and prepare the sauce.
  • Whisk - Used to mix the flour, butter, and beef broth together for the sauce.
  • Spatula - Used to stir and mix the sauce and shredded beef.
  • Bowl - Used to beat the eggs and hold the breadcrumbs for coating.
  • Deep frying pan - Used to fry the krokets in hot oil.
  • Paper towels - Used to drain the fried krokets and remove excess oil.

Recipe variations

  • Use chicken or turkey instead of beef for a different flavor.
  • Replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Experiment with different seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs to enhance the flavor.
  • Add grated cheese to the mixture for a cheesy kroket filling.
  • Try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
  • Make a vegetarian version by substituting the shredded beef with cooked and mashed vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or peas.
  • For a spicy twist, add some chili powder or hot sauce to the mixture.
  • Instead of frying, bake the krokets in the oven for a healthier option.
  • Replace the butter with margarine or vegetable oil for a dairy-free version.
  • Add chopped onions, bell peppers, or other vegetables to the filling for added flavor and texture.

Recipe overview

Delicious and savory, these Krokets are a treat for your taste buds. Originating from the Netherlands, Krokets are crispy breaded cylinders filled with a rich and flavorful beef mixture. This recipe guides you step by step in creating these traditional Dutch snacks right in your own kitchen. Expect to create a mouthwatering roux to coat your shredded beef, and a crunchy breadcrumb exterior that's perfectly fried to golden perfection. A little patience is needed while shaping and dipping the krokets, but the end result is a satisfying, crisp snack that's worth every minute. Enjoy these Krokets as appetizers or even a satisfying snack, and experience a taste of Dutch cuisine.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use different types of meat such as chicken, turkey, or pork as a substitute for beef.
  2. Can I make the krokets in advance? Yes, you can make the krokets ahead of time. After frying, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before serving.
  3. Can I freeze the krokets? Yes, you can freeze the krokets. After frying and cooling, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  4. Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth? Yes, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute for beef broth. It will alter the flavor slightly, but still result in delicious krokets.
  5. Can I bake the krokets instead of frying? While traditionally krokets are fried, you can bake them in the oven as a healthier alternative. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded krokets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Saucepan - Used for melting butter and making the roux
  • Whisk - Used for stirring the roux and beef broth mixture
  • Deep frying pan - Used for frying the krokets
  • Paper towels - Used for draining the fried krokets
  • Bowls - Used for beating eggs and holding breadcrumbs
  • Tongs - Used for flipping and removing krokets from the oil

Origin stories

Krokets, a well-loved and universally recognized Dutch snack, surprisingly has its roots in French culinary tradition. It was the renowned 19th-century French chef, Antonin Carême, who, in his ambition to elevate the culinary arts to the level of the fine arts, originally conceptualized the croquette. The concept then traveled to the Netherlands, where it was heartily embraced and modified to fit the Dutch palate. The Dutch variant, 'kroket', typically uses beef rather than the béchamel sauce used in the French version. Now, krokets have become an integral part of Dutch cuisine, enjoyed in homes and fast-food chains across the country. They're commonly served on bread as a 'broodje kroket', a popular lunch option, or on their own as a snack, reflecting the Dutch practicality and love for hearty, delicious food.

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.