Croquetas
If there’s one thing that’s guaranteed to unite Argentinians, it’s their love of food. And when it comes to comfort food, there are few dishes that can rival the beloved croqueta.
These crispy, bite-sized morsels are the perfect appetizer or snack, and can be found in just about every bakery, cafe, and bar in Argentina. They’re made with a creamy blend of mashed potato, cheese, and diced ham (or sometimes chicken or beef), which is then rolled into balls, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried until golden and crispy.
The origins of the croqueta can be traced back to France, where it was traditionally made with a béchamel sauce base. However, the Argentine version has undergone some unique adaptations to suit local tastes and ingredients.
In Argentina, the croqueta is often served with a dollop of chimichurri sauce, a tangy blend of parsley, garlic, and spices that adds a zesty kick to the rich, creamy croqueta filling. Some recipes also call for a touch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper, which adds a subtle warmth and depth to the flavors.
Argentine croquetas are a traditional food that packs a rich flavor, perfect for any type of event or gathering. They are a timeless classic that have been enjoyed in Argentina for generations, and continue to be a popular dish today. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or an impressive appetizer for a dinner party, Argentine croquetas are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
They are also known to be a great starter for a meal, often served before a big steak dinner or on their own as a light meal. While there are countless variations of croqueta recipes out there, the Argentine version is sure to become a new favorite.
So why not try making some yourself? All you need is a few simple ingredients - potatoes, cheese, ham, breadcrumbs, egg, and oil for frying - and a bit of patience to get them just right. But trust us, it’s worth it.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a complete novice, Argentine croquetas are a delicious and satisfying addition to any meal. So what are you waiting for? Get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1lb cooked ground beef or chicken
- 5 tbsp butter
- 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper
- 1/4 tsp grated nutmeg
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until tender.
- Add flour and stir well to make a paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly pour in milk, stirring constantly. Continue to cook until the sauce is thickened and smooth.
- Add ground beef or chicken, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
- Once the mixture has cooled, take small portions of the mixture, about 1 tbsp, and roll into a ball.
- In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another shallow bowl, add breadcrumbs.
- Dip each croqueta into the egg mixture, then coat it with breadcrumbs.
- In a frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add the croquetas to the hot oil and fry until golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the croquetas from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot and enjoy!