Crispy Mashed Potato and Meat Croquettes are a delightful fusion of creamy mashed potatoes and savory minced meat, encased in a golden, crunchy exterior. This dish combines the comforting textures of mashed potatoes with the rich flavors of seasoned meat, making it a favorite across various cultures. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these croquettes offer a satisfying culinary experience.
Cooking Time
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Preparation Time: 30 minutes
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Cooking Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutesfoodandwine.com+18fromvalerieskitchen.com+18hopewellheightsblog.com+18homemadeonaweeknight.com+5spoonforkbacon.com+5thecozycook.com+5
Ingredients
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2 medium potatoes
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1 teaspoon salt (for boiling potatoes)
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400 g minced meat (beef, chicken, or turkey)
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1 egg (for meat mixture)
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½ teaspoon salt (for meat mixture)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon paprika powder
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4 tablespoons olive oil
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A bunch of fresh dill, finely chopped
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100 g cheese (mozzarella or cheddar), grated
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (for meat mixture)
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
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60 g cornstarch
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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3 eggs (for coating)
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Additional flour (for coating)
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Breadcrumbs (for coating)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Boil the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes. Place them in a pot of salted water and boil until tender, approximately 15 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
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Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a bowl, combine minced meat, 1 egg, ½ teaspoon salt, black pepper, paprika powder, minced garlic, chopped onion, chopped dill, grated cheese, and 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
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Cook the Meat Mixture: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meat mixture and cook until the meat is browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and let it cool.
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Mash the Potatoes: Mash the cooled potatoes until smooth. Add cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of flour to the mashed potatoes, mixing until a dough-like consistency is achieved.
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Assemble the Croquettes: Take a portion of the mashed potato mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the cooked meat mixture in the center and fold the potato mixture over to encase the filling, forming a ball or oval shape. Repeat with the remaining mixtures.
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Prepare the Coating: Set up a breading station with separate bowls containing flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Roll each croquette first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
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Fry the Croquettes: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the croquettes until golden brown on all sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
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Serve: Serve the croquettes hot, accompanied by your choice of dipping sauce or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
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Calories: 350
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Protein: 18g
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Carbohydrates: 25g
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Fat: 20g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sodium: 500mg
Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The concept of combining mashed potatoes with meat fillings is prevalent in various cuisines worldwide. In Latin America, “Papas Rellenas” are popular, featuring mashed potatoes stuffed with seasoned meat and fried to perfection. Similarly, in Eastern European countries, variations of potato and meat croquettes are common, showcasing the versatility and universal appeal of this dish.whatagirleats.com
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Flavorful Combination: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the savory meat filling, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
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Versatility: Suitable as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these croquettes fit various meal occasions.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and fry when ready to serve, making them ideal for gatherings.
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Customizable: Easily adapt the filling with different meats, cheeses, or vegetables to suit personal preferences.
Health Benefits
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Protein-Rich: The meat filling provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
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Vitamin C: Potatoes are rich in vitamin C, supporting immune health.
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Calcium: Cheese adds calcium, promoting bone health.
Serving Suggestions
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Dipping Sauces: Serve with sour cream, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup for added flavor.
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Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the croquettes.
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Beverages: Complement with a light beer or a glass of white wine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overfilling: Avoid overstuffing the croquettes to prevent them from breaking during frying.
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Insufficient Coating: Ensure each croquette is thoroughly coated to achieve a crispy exterior.
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High Heat: Frying at excessively high temperatures can cause the exterior to burn before the interior is heated through.
Pairing Recommendations
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Side Dishes: Serve with steamed vegetables or coleslaw for a complete meal.
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Sauces: Accompany with mustard sauce or tomato chutney for an extra zing.
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Drinks: Pair with sparkling water infused with lemon or a chilled white wine.
Cooking Tips
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Chill Before Frying: Refrigerate the assembled croquettes for 15-20 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
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Uniform Size: Ensure all croquettes are of similar size for even cooking.
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Oil Temperature: Maintain oil temperature at 175°C (350°F) for optimal frying results.
Similar Recipes to Try
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Papas Rellenas: A Latin American dish featuring mashed potatoes stuffed with seasoned meat and fried.
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Shepherd’s Pie: A British classic with a minced meat base topped with mashed potatoes and baked.
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Aloo Tikki: An Indian snack made from spiced mashed potatoes, often served with chutneys.en.wikipedia.org
Variations to Try
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Vegetarian: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian version.
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Cheese-Filled: Add a cube of cheese in the center for a gooey surprise.
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Spicy: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or chili flakes into the meat mixture for added heat.
Ingredient Spotlight: Potatoes
Potatoes are a versatile and nutritious staple in many cuisines. Rich in carbohydrates, they provide energy and are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Their starchy nature makes them ideal for mashing, frying, or baking, as seen in this croquette recipe.
Conclusion
Crispy Mashed Potato and Meat Croquettes are a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together. Their crunchy exterior and flavorful filling make them a crowd-pleaser, suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re exploring international cuisines or seeking comfort food, these croquettes are sure to satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I bake the croquettes instead of frying?
Yes, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
2. Can I freeze the croquettes?
Absolutely. Freeze them after assembling and before frying. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator and proceed with frying or baking.
3. What other fillings can I use?
You can experiment with fillings like sautéed vegetables, cheese, or even seafood for a different twist.
4. How do I prevent the croquettes from falling apart?
Ensure the mashed potato mixture is firm and not too moist. Chilling the croquettes before frying also helps them hold their shape.
5. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
While fresh mashed potatoes are recommended for better texture, instant mashed potatoes can