Hunan-style Spicy Croquetas

Ingredients

In this Hunan-style adaptation, the traditional Spanish croquetas are infused with the bold and spicy flavors of Hunan cuisine. The original croquetas are typically made with a creamy béchamel sauce and filled with ingredients like ham or chicken. However, in this Hunan twist, the filling is made with mashed potatoes seasoned with Hunan spices, giving it a fiery kick and a unique flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Croquetas, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) mashed potatoes 2 cups (470ml) mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs
• 2 red chili peppers, finely chopped 2 red chili peppers, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, chopped chili peppers, minced garlic, grated ginger, crushed Sichuan peppercorns, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the potato mixture into small cylindrical croquetas.
3. 3.
   Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
4. 4.
   Roll each croqueta in flour, dip it in beaten eggs, and then coat it with breadcrumbs.
5. 5.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat.
6. 6.
   Fry the croquetas in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
7. 7.
   Remove the croquetas from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. 8.
   Serve the Hunan-style spicy croquetas hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chili peppers — Adjust the amount of chili peppers according to your spice preference. For a milder version, remove the seeds before chopping.
• Sichuan peppercorns — Toast the peppercorns in a dry pan before crushing them to enhance their flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra spicy kick, add a pinch of Hunan chili powder to the potato mixture.
• To make the croquetas even crispier, double coat them by dipping them in beaten eggs and breadcrumbs twice.
• Serve the croquetas with a cooling dip, such as a yogurt and cucumber sauce, to balance the heat.

Serving advice

Serve the Hunan-style spicy croquetas as an appetizer or snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a refreshing dip or sauce.

Presentation advice

Arrange the croquetas on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves or sliced green onions for a vibrant and appetizing presentation.