Whenever you have potatoes on hand, this easy and delicious potato croquettes recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack. Combining the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with the rich flavor of cheddar cheese, these croquettes are sure to be a hit with everyone. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
- 6 potatoes (800 g)
- 1 glass of cornstarch (100 g)
- 150 g grated cheddar cheese
- 1 pinch of parsley
- 1 teaspoon of salt (8 g)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and cut the potatoes into small pieces.
- Place them in a pot and add enough water to cover them.
- Cook the potatoes until they are soft, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the water and mash the potatoes until smooth.
2. Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cornstarch, grated cheddar cheese, parsley, and salt.
- Knead the mixture with your hands until it reaches a dough-like consistency.
3. Shape the Croquettes:
- Take small pieces of the potato mixture and shape them into oval or round balls.
- Use a little vegetable oil on your hands to prevent sticking.
4. Coat the Croquettes:
- Beat the egg in a bowl.
- Dip each potato ball first into the egg, then roll it in bread crumbs to coat evenly.
5. Fry the Croquettes:
- Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the potato croquettes.
- Fry until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve:
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- Serve the croquettes hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 servings
Why This Potato Croquettes Recipe Works
Balanced Ingredients:
- Potatoes: The base of the croquettes, potatoes provide a creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs well with various seasonings and cheese.
- Cornstarch: Acts as a binder, helping to hold the mashed potatoes together and giving the croquettes a firm yet tender texture.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, savory flavor and a creamy consistency when melted, enhancing the overall taste of the croquettes.
- Parsley and Salt: Seasonings like parsley and salt enhance the flavor profile, adding freshness and necessary seasoning.
Effective Cooking Techniques:
- Boiling and Mashing Potatoes: Cooking the potatoes until soft and then mashing them ensures a smooth, lump-free base for the croquettes.
- Kneading the Dough: Combining the mashed potatoes with cornstarch, cheese, and seasonings by kneading ensures a well-mixed, cohesive dough that’s easy to shape.
- Shaping and Coating: Shaping the dough into balls and coating them with egg and breadcrumbs creates a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy interior.
Texture and Flavor:
- Crispy Exterior and Soft Interior: The breadcrumbs form a crispy outer layer when fried, while the inside remains soft and creamy, providing a delightful textural contrast.
- Cheesy Flavor: The cheddar cheese melts inside the croquettes, infusing each bite with a rich, cheesy flavor that complements the mild potatoes.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Simple and Wholesome Ingredients: Using basic, whole ingredients like potatoes, cheese, and fresh herbs makes these croquettes a relatively wholesome choice.
- Moderate Caloric Content: At approximately 250 kcal per serving, these croquettes offer a satisfying snack or side dish without excessive calories.
Versatility and Customization:
- Adaptable Recipe: The basic recipe can be customized with additional ingredients such as different cheeses, herbs, or spices to suit personal preferences.
- Serving Options: Croquettes can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, making them versatile for different meal settings.
Ease of Preparation:
- Straightforward Steps: The recipe involves clear, simple steps—boiling, mashing, mixing, shaping, coating, and frying—that are easy to follow, even for beginners.
- Quick to Make: With a total time of around 50 minutes, including preparation and cooking, these croquettes are a relatively quick dish to prepare.
Conclusion:
This potato croquettes recipe works because it combines simple, wholesome ingredients with effective cooking techniques to create a delicious, satisfying dish. The balance of creamy potatoes, rich cheese, and a crispy exterior provides an irresistible flavor and texture combination. Easy to prepare and versatile, these croquettes are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful recipe!