Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious Crispy Potato Croquettes:

• 2 potatoes (500 grams, peeled and boiled)
• 2 pinches of salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Black pepper (to taste)
• A handful of parsley (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• Breadcrumbs (for coating, about 1/2 cup)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Making It Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling and boiling the potatoes. Cut the potatoes into chunks for faster cooking, then place them in a pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are soft and easily pierced with a fork (about 15-20 minutes). Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and let them cool for a few minutes before mashing.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes

Using a potato masher or fork, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and lump-free. You can also use a ricer for extra smoothness. Add a pinch of salt, black pepper to taste, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and the finely chopped parsley. Stir the seasonings into the mashed potatoes until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Add Cornstarch

To help the croquettes hold their shape, add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until the cornstarch is fully incorporated. The cornstarch acts as a binder, giving the croquettes structure and a light, crispy texture when fried.

Step 4: Shape the Potato Mixture

With clean hands, take small portions of the potato mixture and shape them into small cylinders or oval-shaped croquettes, about the size of your palm. You can also form them into round balls if you prefer. Make sure they are compact enough to hold their shape, but don’t press them too hard as the mixture should remain soft.

Step 5: Coat the Croquettes

Prepare three bowls for breading the croquettes:

• In the first bowl, place 2 tablespoons of flour (optional, to lightly coat the croquettes).
• In the second bowl, beat the egg.
• In the third bowl, pour the breadcrumbs.

Dip each croquette first into the flour (optional), then into the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs to fully coat the surface. The breadcrumbs will give the croquettes their signature crispy exterior.

Step 6: Fry the Croquettes

In a large frying pan or deep skillet, heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat. Test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread or potato mixture into the oil; if it sizzles and browns, the oil is ready for frying.

Carefully place the croquettes into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry each croquette for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn the croquettes and ensure they fry evenly.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Once the croquettes are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve the croquettes hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, aioli, or a yogurt-based dip. You can also sprinkle additional parsley on top for garnish.

Cooking Tips

• Cheese Addition: For an extra cheesy flavor, you can add shredded cheese (like cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) to the mashed potato mixture before shaping the croquettes. The cheese will melt inside the croquettes, creating a deliciously gooey center.
• Alternative Coatings: If you prefer a lighter texture, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs for regular breadcrumbs. Panko creates a crispier and lighter coating.
• Baking Option: If you want a healthier option, you can bake the croquettes instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F), place the croquettes on a lined baking sheet, and lightly brush or spray them with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
• Shaping Tips: If the mashed potato mixture is too soft to shape, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before forming the croquettes. This will help firm up the mixture, making it easier to handle.

Storage

• In the Refrigerator: Store any leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or a skillet to crisp them up again, or microwave them, though this may result in a softer texture.
• In the Freezer: These croquettes can be frozen before or after frying. To freeze uncooked croquettes, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. To cook from frozen, fry or bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Facts (Per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 1g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Calcium: 3% of the recommended daily intake
• Iron: 6% of the recommended daily intake

FAQs

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
   Yes! Sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for regular potatoes, giving the croquettes a slightly sweeter flavor and a more vibrant color. The cooking process remains the same, though sweet potatoes may need a little less time to cook when boiling.
2. What type of oil is best for frying croquettes?
   Neutral oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or canola oil, are ideal for frying croquettes. These oils won’t overpower the flavor of the croquettes and will give them a crispy exterior.
3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
   To make the croquettes gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour or cornstarch for coating. Cornstarch alone can also work well for coating and frying.
4. Can I prepare the croquettes in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the croquettes in advance by shaping and coating them, then refrigerating them until you’re ready to fry. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze the uncooked croquettes and fry them directly from frozen when ready.
5. What can I serve with potato croquettes?
   Potato croquettes pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ketchup, garlic aioli, or sour cream. They also make a great side dish for meats like grilled chicken, steak, or fish, or can be served alongside a fresh salad.

Conclusion
Crispy Potato Croquettes are a crowd-pleasing snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day. With a soft and creamy interior made from seasoned mashed potatoes and a crunchy breadcrumb coating, they are simple yet incredibly satisfying. This versatile recipe allows you to customize the croquettes with different seasonings, cheeses, and herbs, making it a dish that can easily be adapted to your taste. Whether you’re serving these croquettes as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, their golden, crispy exterior and fluffy interior will make them a favorite for family and friends alike!