Daisy Keats' Cheese Croquettes
Cheese croquettes with sharp cheddar flavor, lightly spiced with onion juice, mustard, cayenne, and coated in a crispy fried exterior, perfect as a savory appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the ground sharp Cheddar cheese, unbeaten egg whites, grated onion juice, dry mustard, cayenne pepper, condensed milk, and flour together by hand until well combined.
- Mold the mixture into 6 or 8 croquettes.
- Roll each croquette in the egg whites combined with condensed milk.
- Then roll the croquettes in flour, and repeat the rolling process a second time.
- Set the coated croquettes aside in the refrigerator until they become firm.
- Drop one croquette at a time into hot oil in a skillet.
- Cook and roll them over until they are browned, about less than a minute per croquette.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using a combination of cheddar and a softer cheese like mozzarella. If you don't have dry mustard, Dijon can work in a pinch, just reduce the amount slightly. Additionally, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior. For a kick, try adding a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese croquettes hot, paired with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or a spicy aioli. They make an excellent appetizer or snack and can be complemented by a fresh side salad or crispy veggie sticks. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a Mixed Veggie Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Daisy Keats' Cheese Croquettes contains roughly 426 calories, with 22g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), calcium (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 522mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the croquettes before frying?
Yes, you can freeze the molded croquettes before frying. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of egg whites?
If you're looking for an egg-free option, you can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a substitute for egg whites. Use about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for each egg white. This will help bind the croquettes without adding any egg flavor.
How can I make these croquettes more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding finely chopped herbs like chives or parsley, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the cheese mixture. You can also experiment with various spices to create a unique twist that suits your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).