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The charm of ham and bechamel croquettes comes from their wonderful balance. They blend creamy white sauce with tasty ham chunks, all wrapped in a golden breadcrumb coating that crunches when you bite in. This little kitchen treasure works great as a snack or dinner thanks to its comforting taste that brings back memories of grandma's cooking.
A crowd-pleasing treat everyone loves
These little bites are my go-to for feeding friends and family without any fuss. You can make them ahead and warm them up when needed. Everyone falls for the contrast between their melty centers and crispy outer shells. Whether you've got people dropping by or you're planning a proper dinner, they bring that comforting touch that makes sharing food so special.
Ingredients you'll need
- 500 ml whole milk: Gets you that smooth, rich bechamel sauce.
- 125 g ham: Cut into small cubes for great texture and flavor.
- 35 g unsalted butter: Key starter for your roux mixture.
- 35 g flour: Helps thicken your sauce nicely.
- 1/2 onion: Chopped small for flavor base.
- 1/2 garlic clove: Finely cut to boost taste.
- Salt and black pepper: Add to your liking.
- 1 beaten egg: For coating your croquettes.
- Flour and breadcrumbs: Creates that crunchy outside.
- Vegetable oil: For getting that golden-brown finish.
Step-by-step instructions
- Getting started
- First, finely chop your onion and garlic. Melt the butter in a pan, then throw in the ham with these aromatics. Let everything cook gently for a few minutes until the smells start coming out.
- Making the perfect white sauce
- Sprinkle flour over your mix and slowly pour in milk while stirring. The mix will gradually thicken up. Season it how you like it.
- Cooling time
- Spread your mixture out flat and let it cool down before popping it in the freezer for about 25 minutes.
- Shaping your snacks
- Form your mixture into neat croquettes, then roll them in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs for that perfect coating.
- Finishing touch
- Drop them into oil at 180°C until they turn golden brown. Let them drain on paper towels before serving.
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Tasty serving suggestions
In my home, I always pair these croquettes with a crisp salad full of fresh herbs. A small dish of homemade garlic mayo or my sweet spiced tomato sauce really brings out their comforting side. If you want something heartier, they're fantastic with a creamy homemade mashed potato on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare the croquettes ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make and freeze them before frying. This saves time and gives you ready-to-cook snacks.
- → How do I make the croquettes extra crunchy?
- Chill the béchamel mixture thoroughly before shaping. Also, make sure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F) for frying.
- → What sauce pairs well with these croquettes?
- They go great with aioli or a spicy tomato dip. You could also serve them with a fresh green salad.
- → What’s the trick to a smooth béchamel?
- Add the milk gradually while stirring nonstop. Let the sauce thicken between additions to avoid lumps.
- → Can I use a different type of ham?
- Absolutely, feel free to switch it up. Regular cooked ham works well, but smoked ham or leftover chicken are tasty alternatives too.