Croquettes (Chicken and Ham Croquettes

Ethnic/National Origin: Spain
Meal Type: Appetizer
Allergy Info.: Unknown
Submitted by: Rosa Salgado-Rodriguez
What it means to you?

Croquettes are one of Spain’s most popular tapas, and a staple in most Spanish kitchens, as well. These delicious little bites are everything you look for in a comfort food: crispy, salty, crunchy, and tasty.

Croquettes came to Spain from France, the latter of which use creamy potatoes as a base. While the French use potatoes for their croquettes, Spaniards use bechamel.

Suggested Equipment: Fry Pan
Ingredients
  • 3
    tbsp
    Butter
  • 5
    tbsp
    Olive Oil
  • 3/4
    cup
    Flour
  • 1 1/2
    cup
    Milk
  • 1/2
    cup
    Chicken Broth
  • 1
    cup
    Chicken (boiled, breast)
  • 1/2
    cup
    Ham (cured, finely minched)
  • 2
    Eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1
    cup
    Bread crumbs
  • 1/4
    cup
    Oil for frying
  • 1
    pinch
    Salt/Pepper
  • 1
    tsps
    Flour
Preparation:
  1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a saucepan until the butter melts. Add the flour and cook 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
  2. Gradually add the milk and he broth, salt, and pepper and cook over a medium flame, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thickened and smooth.
  3. Add the chicken and ham and continue cooking and stirring 10 minutes more, until the sauce reaches the boiling point.
  4. Check the seasoning, adding more salt, if necessary, then cool. Refrigerate until cold, at least 3 hours.
  5. Flour a work surface and divide the mixture into balls of about 1 tablespoon each, rolling with floured hands.
  6. Dip the croquettes in the egg, and coat with the crumbs. Chill for 30 minutes; fry in hot oil, at least 1 inch deep, turning several times, until golden.