Homemade Spanish Croquetas

Ingredients

• 2 cups (470ml) whole milk 2 cups (470ml) whole milk
• 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (75g) cooked ham, finely chopped 1/2 cup (75g) cooked ham, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (30g) onion, finely chopped 1/4 cup (30g) onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 26g, 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, heat the milk until hot but not boiling.
2. 2.
   In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
3. 3.
   Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it forms a paste.
4. 4.
   Gradually whisk in the hot milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
5. 5.
   Add the chopped ham, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
6. 6.
   Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
7. 7.
   Once the mixture is firm, shape it into small cylinders or balls.
8. 8.
   Dip each croqueta into the beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
9. 9.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 180°C (350°F).
10. 10.
    Fry the croquetas in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
12. 12.
    Serve the croquetas hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Breadcrumbs — For extra flavor, you can use seasoned breadcrumbs or mix in some grated Parmesan cheese.
• Ham — Use cooked ham that is finely chopped for a smooth filling. You can also substitute it with cooked chicken or seafood for different variations.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure the croquetas are well-coated with breadcrumbs to achieve a crispy crust.
• Chill the mixture thoroughly before shaping to make it easier to handle.
• To save time, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to shape and fry.
• Serve the croquetas with a dipping sauce like aioli or tomato salsa for extra flavor.
• Experiment with different fillings such as cheese and spinach or mushrooms for vegetarian options.

Serving advice

Serve the Spanish Croquetas as an appetizer or tapas dish. Arrange them on a platter with a side of dipping sauce and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

Presentation advice

For an elegant presentation, place the croquetas on a bed of lettuce leaves or serve them in individual small bowls or plates. Sprinkle some paprika or grated cheese on top for added visual appeal.