Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup Queso Cebreiro cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
2. Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated Queso Cebreiro cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Pour the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spread it out evenly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
5. Once the mixture is firm, use a cookie scoop or spoon to form small balls. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs, then dip in beaten egg, and roll again in breadcrumbs.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F.
7. Fry the croquettes in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
8. Remove the croquettes with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Frying temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
- Makes about 20 croquettes
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Queso Cebreiro cheese can be substituted with any soft cheese, such as brie or camembert.
Variations:
- Add chopped ham or cooked bacon to the cheese mixture for a meaty twist.
- Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a different flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cheese mixture is firm before rolling into balls to prevent them from falling apart.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to make evenly sized croquettes.
- 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:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Place the croquettes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the croquettes on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.
- Arrange the croquettes on a bed of lettuce for a colorful presentation.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the croquettes for a pop of color.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.
Suggested side dishes:
- Spanish tortilla
- Patatas bravas
- Grilled vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese mixture is too runny, add more flour to thicken it.
- If the croquettes are falling apart during frying, try refrigerating them for a longer period of time to firm up the mixture.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the croquettes to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
Food history:
- Croquettes originated in France in the 19th century and were traditionally made with leftover meat or fish.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and slightly nutty.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack.
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Region: Spanish