Cheese korokke
Japan is renowned for its delectable dishes, from the delicate floral notes of sushi to the hearty warmth of ramen. And when it comes to snacks, one of the most beloved comfort foods is korokke. Imagine the perfect food: crispy on the outside, warm and creamy on the inside. No wonder it’s a popular item in convenience stores and street food stalls, as well as homes all around the country. With its versatility and imagination, the classic korokke has now taken a delicious twist, introducing the Japanese Cheese Korokke into the scene.
Korokke can trace its roots back to the French croquette, although the Japanese have adopted it as their own tasty treat. Traditionally, they’re filled with a creamy mixture of mashed potatoes and other ingredients such as meat, seafood, or veggies, and seasoned with soy sauce and other spices to give them a unique Japanese twist. But with the increasing popularity of western-inspired foods in Japan over the years, various twists and additions to the classic recipe have since emerged. One of which is the Japanese Cheese Korokke, made with a melty, oozy cheese filling that adds more depth and decadence to the classic dish.
This Japanese Cheese Korokke has all the hallmarks of a great snack. With the crunchy panko coating and addictive cheese filling, it will leave you wanting more. And with its ease of preparation, you’ll be able to recreate this Japanese delight right at your very own kitchen.
To make this scrumptious snack, you will need a few key ingredients. Panko breadcrumbs is important in achieving that perfect crunch, and it’s widely available in most grocery stores. A good quality cheese such as cheddar, gruyere, or mozzarella is mandatory, as well as potatoes and some other vegetables such as onions and carrots. For seasoning, you will need soy sauce, salt, and pepper, although the combination of these ingredients can be adjusted depending on your preference.
The process of making the Japanese Cheese Korokke is not that complicated, making it perfect for those who want to try their hand at Japanese cuisine. First, you need to peel and chop the potatoes into small pieces before boiling them until they are soft enough to mash. Then, you chop the onions and carrots finely and saute them until cooked. Add the mashed potatoes and the cooked vegetables together, mix them well, and then add the soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Next, take a spoonful of the filling and arrange it on your hand in a rectangular shape. Put a small amount of grated cheese on top, making sure that it doesn’t spill over the edges. Gently wrap the filling with a layer of mashed potatoes and shape it into the desired size. Coat the korokke with egg, then breadcrumbs, and then fry them in hot oil until they’re golden brown.
The finished product is a delightfully cheesy snack that bursts with flavors, contrasting textures, and a whole lot of comforting goodness. This Japanese Cheese Korokke recipe is perfect for those who want to experience the taste of modern Japan, with a twist of western-inspired flavor. It’s great for lunch, dinner, or even as a midnight snack, and it’s bound to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. So why not give it a try and savor the taste of Japan’s favorite traditional snack with a deliciously cheesy twist?
Ingredients:
- 3 large potatoes
- 100 grams of cheese (e.g. cheddar, gouda)
- 1 small onion
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour or cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
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Peel and wash the potatoes. Cut them into small pieces and boil them for around 20 minutes or until soft. Then, mash them until smooth.
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Grate the cheese and finely chop the onion.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheese, and onion. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
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Take a spoonful of the potato mixture and form it into a ball. Repeat until you have about 8-10 balls.
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Coat each ball with flour or cornstarch, shaking off any excess. Then, dip them into the beaten egg and coat them well with panko breadcrumbs.
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Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the potato balls until golden brown.
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Transfer the fried Japanese cheese korokke onto a paper towel to remove excess oil.
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Serve while hot, with a dipping sauce of your choice (e.g. Tonkatsu sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or ketchup). Enjoy!