Appetizer > Tapas

Jamón Serrano and Manchego Cheese Croquettes Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups Jamón Serrano, finely chopped
- 2 cups Manchego cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying

Special equipment needed:
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Slotted spoon

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the mixture thickens and becomes a smooth paste.
4. Add the Jamón Serrano and Manchego cheese, and stir until the cheese has melted and the mixture is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Once cooled, shape the mixture into small balls or croquettes.
7. Beat the eggs in a bowl and place the bread crumbs in another bowl.
8. Dip each croquette in the beaten eggs, then coat it in the bread crumbs.
9. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
10. Fry the croquettes in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
11. Use a slotted spoon to remove the croquettes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
12. Serve hot.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for frying
Serving size:
Makes about 20 croquettes

Nutritional information:
Calories: 220
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 360mg
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 9g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Jamón Serrano can be substituted with prosciutto or cooked ham.
- Manchego cheese can be substituted with any hard cheese, such as Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with any neutral-flavored oil, such as canola or peanut oil.

Variations:
- Add chopped herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the croquette mixture for extra flavor.
- Use different types of cheese, such as blue cheese or cheddar, for a different flavor profile.
- Add diced roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to the croquette mixture for added texture and flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the croquette mixture is completely cooled before shaping into balls to prevent them from falling apart.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the croquette mixture for even-sized croquettes.
- Chill the croquettes in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
- Fry the croquettes in small batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.

Storage instructions:
Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat croquettes in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the croquettes on a platter with a side of aioli or tomato sauce for dipping.

Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor.

Pairings:
Serve with a glass of red wine, such as Rioja or Tempranillo.

Suggested side dishes:
- Spanish tortilla
- Patatas bravas
- Grilled vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the croquette mixture is too dry, add more milk to achieve a smooth consistency.
- If the croquettes fall apart during frying, the mixture may be too wet. Add more bread crumbs to help bind the mixture together.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure the croquette mixture is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil before frying to prevent overheating and potential fires.

Food history:
Croquettes are a popular Spanish tapa that originated in France in the 19th century. They are typically made with a béchamel sauce and a variety of fillings, such as ham, cheese, or seafood.

Flavor profiles:
The Jamón Serrano and Manchego cheese croquettes have a savory and salty flavor profile, with a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy interior.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the croquettes as an appetizer or as part of a tapas spread. They also make a great party snack or game day food.

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Region: Spanish

Taste: Savory, Salty, Umami, Rich, Creamy