Experience the savory delights of Cuban cuisine with these flavorful Ham Croquettes. A mixture of diced ham, creamy béchamel sauce, and aromatic spices is coated in breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. These crispy croquettes are a popular Cuban snack or appetizer, loved for their crunchy exterior and soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice for an irresistible treat that captures the essence of Cuban flavors.

CROQUETAS DE JAMÓN

DIFFICULTY: MODERATE


GALLERY                                                                                                                                                                  

INGREDIENTS                                                                                                                                                       

4 Persons

For the Ham Croquettes:
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup cooked ham, diced
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground white pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 cups breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying

INSTRUCTIONS                                                                                                                                                     

1) In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, to create a smooth roux.

2) Gradually add the milk to the roux while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.

3) Stir in the diced ham, finely chopped onion, finely chopped green bell pepper, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground nutmeg, ground white pepper, and salt. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture is well combined and heated through.

4) Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

5) Take a spoonful of the mixture and shape it into a croquette. Repeat with the remaining mixture to form the croquettes.

6) Dip each croquette into the beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

7) In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Carefully add the coated croquettes and fry until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

8) Remove the croquettes from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

9) Serve the Ham Croquettes hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the authentic flavors of Cuba!

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving)                                                                                       

Calories: 250 kcal

Protein: 9g

Carbohydrates: 28g

Fat: 11g

Fiber: 2g

Sodium: 530mg

DURATION : 50 minutes                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

TRICK & TIP                                                                                                                                                                     

For extra flavor, you can add a dash of hot sauce or minced jalapeños to the ham mixture. Serve the Ham Croquettes with a tangy dipping sauce, such as garlic aioli or a classic Cuban mojo sauce.