Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound cooked ham, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Deep-fry thermometer
- Large heavy-bottomed pot for frying
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped ham and onion and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the ham and onion mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let cool to room temperature.
5. Once the mixture has cooled, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Dip each ball in the beaten eggs, then roll in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F on a deep-fry thermometer.
8. Working in batches, fry the croquettes until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the croquettes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Serve the medianoche croquettes hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Frying oil temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
Makes approximately 24 croquettes
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 130
Fat per serving: 7g
Carbohydrates per serving: 10g
Protein per serving: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cooked chicken or turkey can be substituted for the ham.
- White onion can be substituted for the yellow onion.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted for the panko breadcrumbs.
Variations:
- Add chopped green onions or parsley to the ham mixture for added flavor.
- Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, instead of Parmesan.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the ham mixture has cooled completely before forming into balls to prevent them from falling apart.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to ensure uniform size for even frying.
- Fry the croquettes in small batches to prevent overcrowding in the pot.
Storage instructions:
- Leftover croquettes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the croquettes on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the croquettes on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added color.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of crispy french fries or sweet potato fries.
- Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- French fries
- Sweet potato fries
- Side salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the croquettes are falling apart during frying, try adding more breadcrumbs to the mixture to help bind it together.
- If the croquettes are not crispy enough, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying.
Food safety advice:
- Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the proper temperature for safe frying.
- Always use caution when working with hot oil to prevent burns.
Food history:
- Medianoche croquettes are a popular Cuban snack that originated in the early 20th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory
- Salty
- Creamy
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack.
- Can also be served as a main dish with a side salad or fries.
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Region: Cuban