Potato and Ham Croquettes

Name: Potato and Ham Croquettes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 80 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed potatoes (smooth and chilled); 1 cup cooked ham (finely diced); 1 cup grated cheese (such as Gruyère or cheddar); 1 egg (beaten); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs (beaten); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups oil (for frying, such as canola or vegetable)

80 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Potato and Ham Croquettes

Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these potato and ham croquettes are a delightful appetizer or snack.

Prep

30 min

Cook

20 min

Total

80 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Potato and ham croquettes are a classic appetizer that combine the comforting flavours of mashed potatoes with savoury ham. These croquettes are perfect for any occasion, offering a satisfying crunch with a soft, flavourful centre. Originating from French cuisine, croquettes have become popular worldwide due to their versatility and the endless combinations of ingredients that can be used. This version pairs the subtle creaminess of mashed potatoes with the rich taste of ham, making them a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or a delightful snack.

Ingredients

Servings

Croquette Mixture

Coating

Frying

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, diced ham, grated cheese, and beaten egg. Mix until well incorporated.

Pro tip: Ensure the mashed potatoes are smooth and chilled to help the mixture hold together.

Form Croquettes

Using your hands, form the mixture into small, cylindrical shapes. Place them on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.

Pro tip: Chilling the mixture makes it easier to handle and helps the croquettes keep their shape during frying.

Coat the Croquettes

Set up a breading station with flour on one plate, beaten eggs in a shallow dish, and breadcrumbs on another plate. Dredge each croquette in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and roll in breadcrumbs to coat.

Pro tip: Ensure an even coating for a consistent crispy texture.

Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan, heat oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).

Pro tip: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature for even frying.

Fry the Croquettes

Carefully place croquettes in the hot oil, frying in batches. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Pro tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.

Serve

Serve the croquettes hot with your choice of dipping sauce.

Pro tip: For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Ensure your mashed potatoes are smooth to avoid lumps in the croquettes.</li><li>Chill the mixture before forming croquettes to make handling easier.</li><li>Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for frying, like canola or vegetable oil.</li><li>Test the oil temperature with a small piece of bread; it should brown in about 60 seconds.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve these potato and ham croquettes hot, straight from the fryer, for the best texture and flavour. They pair wonderfully with a tangy mustard or a creamy aioli for dipping. To make ahead, prepare the croquettes and freeze them in a single layer before frying. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed container. When ready to serve, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time.