Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something comforting, crispy, and utterly delicious? Then look no further! These homemade ham croquettes are the perfect answer. They're surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offer a fantastic balance of savory ham, creamy béchamel, and a satisfyingly crunchy exterior. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meal game with this simple yet elegant recipe, perfect for a quick dinner or a sophisticated appetizer. This recipe provides healthy meals without sacrificing taste!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked ham, finely diced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Making the Béchamel Sauce
First, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (this is called a roux). Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and creamy. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low, stir in nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Combining the Ingredients
Remove the béchamel sauce from the heat and stir in the diced ham and Parmesan cheese. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 3: Forming the Croquettes
Once the ham mixture has cooled, gently fold in the beaten eggs. Shape the mixture into oval-shaped croquettes, about 2 inches long.
Step 4: Breadcrumb Coating
Place the bread crumbs in a shallow dish. Roll each croquette in the bread crumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
Step 5: Frying the Croquettes
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the croquettes in the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the croquettes from the skillet and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Serving
Serve your delicious ham croquettes immediately. They're wonderful on their own, or you can pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as aioli or tartar sauce.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, use a good quality ham.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when frying the croquettes. This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy croquettes. Fry them in batches if necessary.
- If you prefer a lighter version, bake the croquettes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the béchamel for a spicy kick.
- Substitute Gruyère or cheddar cheese for the Parmesan.
- Incorporate finely chopped mushrooms or onions into the ham mixture.
Nutritional Information (per croquette, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients and frying method)
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Protein: Approximately 10g
These easy recipes for ham croquettes are a simple, yet impressive dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking! This is a quick dinner idea that's sure to become a family favorite. From simple weeknight meals to the best recipes for entertaining, these ham croquettes deliver on both taste and ease.