Tajik-inspired Ham Croquettes

Ingredients

In this Tajik-inspired version of croquetas de jamón, we incorporate Tajik spices such as cumin and coriander to add a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, we use local Tajik ingredients like potatoes and spices to adapt the dish to Tajik cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Croquetas de jamón, so you can check it out.

• 200g (7 oz) cooked ham, finely diced 200g (7 oz) cooked ham, finely diced
• 300g (10.5 oz) potatoes, boiled and mashed 300g (10.5 oz) potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• 100g (3.5 oz) breadcrumbs 100g (3.5 oz) breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, mashed potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small cylindrical croquettes, about 5cm (2 inches) in length.
3. 3.
   Dip each croquette into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.
4. 4.
   Roll the coated croquettes in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the surface.
5. 5.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat. Fry the croquettes in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
6. 6.
   Serve the Tajik-inspired Ham Croquettes hot as an appetizer or snack.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Make sure to boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender for easy mashing.
• Ham — Use cooked ham that is not overly salty for the best flavor in the croquettes.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the croquettes extra crispy, you can double-coat them by dipping them in beaten eggs and breadcrumbs twice.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the mixture.
• Serve the Tajik-inspired Ham Croquettes with a side of Tajik yogurt sauce or a tangy tomato chutney for a delicious accompaniment.

Serving advice

Serve the Tajik-inspired Ham Croquettes as an appetizer or snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Tajik-inspired Ham Croquettes on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for an attractive presentation.