Ham Croquettes Recipe
Introduction
Ham croquettes are a delightful snack that’s crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Perfect as an appetizer or a savory treat, these bite-sized morsels bring comfort and flavor to any table.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 8 ounces ham, finely diced
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 sleeve saltine crackers, processed into fine crumbs
- Oil for frying (enough to fill a pan about 1 1/2 inches deep)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic with salt and pepper, then sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Step 2: Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until a thick paste forms. Add the fresh parsley and diced ham, mixing until well combined.
- Step 3: Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a baking pan, smoothing it out evenly. Let it cool for 10 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Step 4: Once chilled, shape the mixture into small balls or logs about 1 tablespoon in size.
- Step 5: Prepare a breading station with the beaten eggs in one bowl and the crushed saltine crackers in a shallow dish. Dip each croquette in cracker crumbs, then egg, then back into cracker crumbs for a double coating.
- Step 6: Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F. Fry croquettes in small batches until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For a creamier filling, add a bit of cream cheese or béchamel sauce to the ham mixture before chilling.
- Substitute ham with cooked shredded chicken or turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of saltine crackers for an extra crunchy coating.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent soggy croquettes.
Storage
Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I freeze ham croquettes?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked, breaded croquettes on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to cooking time.
What can I serve with ham croquettes?
Ham croquettes pair well with dipping sauces like mustard, aioli, or a spicy ketchup. They also complement fresh salads or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
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Ham Croquettes Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: Approximately 20 croquettes 1x
Description
Deliciously crispy Ham Croquettes featuring a creamy ham and onion filling coated in a double layer of seasoned cracker crumbs and fried to golden perfection. These savory bites make a perfect appetizer or snack, combining rich buttery flavors with a satisfying crunchy exterior.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 8 ounces ham, finely diced
For Breading & Frying
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 sleeve saltine crackers, processed into fine crumbs
- Oil, enough for frying to a depth of about 1 1/2 inches in the pan
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Sauté the mixture for about 3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and fragrant.
- Make Base: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until a thick paste forms. Add the fresh parsley and finely diced ham, mixing well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Chill Mixture: Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the ham mixture into a baking pan, spreading it out smoothly. Let it cool for 10 minutes at room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to firm up.
- Shape Croquettes: Once the mixture is chilled and firm, form it into small balls or logs approximately 1 tablespoon in size. This makes them easy to handle and ensures even cooking.
- Bread Croquettes: Set up a breading station with the beaten eggs in one bowl and the finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs in a shallow dish. Dip each croquette first in the cracker crumbs, then in the egg wash, and again in the cracker crumbs for a double coating to maximize crunchiness.
- Fry: Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). In small batches, fry the croquettes until they turn golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the filling is thoroughly chilled before shaping to make handling easier and prevent croquettes from falling apart during frying.
- The double breading creates a crispier exterior and helps seal in moisture.
- Use fresh oil for frying to avoid unpleasant flavors and ensure an even golden crust.
- You can substitute ham with cooked, finely diced chicken or turkey for a different variation.
- Serve with mustard or aioli for an added burst of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Ham Croquettes, Crispy Croquettes, Fried Appetizer, Ham Snacks, Finger Food, Party Appetizer
