Potato Croquettes with Cheese are a delicious and comforting dish that combines the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with the gooey goodness of melted cheese. Perfect as a side or a snack, these golden-brown bites are sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a tasty accompaniment to your main course or a satisfying appetizer, this recipe will guide you through creating the ultimate potato croquettes. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions!
Ingredients
- 500 grams peeled potatoes (about 1 lb)
- 70 grams butter (about 5 tablespoons)
- 30 ml milk (about 2 tablespoons)
- Salt to taste
- 100 grams semi-hard cheese (about 3.5 oz)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp wheat flour
- 70 grams breadcrumbs (about 2.5 oz)
Directions
-
Boil the Potatoes: Start by placing the peeled potatoes in a pot of salted boiling water. Cook until they are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
-
Prepare the Mashed Potato: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and warm milk to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Let it cool to room temperature.
-
Grate the Cheese: While the potatoes are cooling, take your semi-hard cheese and grate it using a fine grater. Set aside.
-
Beat the Egg: In a small bowl, beat the egg with a fork until fully blended.
-
Form the Cheese Balls: From the grated cheese, form small balls about the size of a marble. Keep them aside.
-
Shape the Croquettes: Take a small portion of the cooled mashed potato, about the size of a golf ball. Flatten it into a disk and place a cheese ball in the center. Enclose the cheese with the potato, forming a ball about 3 cm in diameter.
-
Bread the Croquettes: First, coat the potato ball in flour. Next, dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully covered. Finally, roll it in breadcrumbs to create a crispy outer layer. For extra crunch, you can dip it in the egg and then in breadcrumbs again.
-
Fry the Croquettes: Heat oil in a deep fat fryer to 170 degrees Celsius (340 degrees Fahrenheit). Fry the croquettes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the fryer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes or until they are golden brown.
-
Drain and Serve: Remove the cooked croquettes with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutrition Info: Approx. 250 calories per serving (based on 1 serving of croquettes)
How to serve
Potato Croquettes with Cheese can be served as a delightful side dish to complement meat, poultry, or fish. They also make an excellent appetizer for gatherings or parties. Consider pairing them with a side of fresh dipping sauce, like garlic aioli or marinara, for an extra flavor boost.
FAQs
1. Can I make Potato Croquettes with Cheese in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the croquettes ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry. This is a great way to save time on busy days.
2. What type of cheese works best?
Semi-hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda are perfect because they melt well and provide a fantastic flavor. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses!
3. Can I bake the Potato Croquettes instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius (400 degrees Fahrenheit) and place the breaded croquettes on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy, turning halfway through.