Ham Croquettes
Crispy ham croquettes with a creamy filling, crispy exterior, perfect as an appetizer or snack for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook together the milk, butter, onion, flour, salt, and pepper to make a creamy sauce, then add the sherry wine and ground ham. Cook slowly.
- Pour the mixture into a dish and refrigerate for 2 hours.
- Form the chilled mixture into croquettes, dip them in beaten eggs, then coat with cracker crumbs.
- Fry the croquettes until golden brown and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the sauce. If you're out of sherry, white wine or even apple cider vinegar can work as a substitute. To make the croquettes extra crunchy, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular cracker crumbs. If you're looking for a quicker option, pre-made mashed potatoes can also be used as a base.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham croquettes with a tangy dipping sauce such as mustard or aioli for added flavor. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a delightful brunch option, consider serving them alongside a slice of Ham And Egg Quiche or as an appetizer at your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. If you prefer, you can also re-fry them in a skillet with a bit of oil to restore their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Croquettes contains roughly 937 calories, with 10g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 572mg per serving (25% 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 use other types of meat instead of ham?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even leftover roast beef in this recipe. Just ensure that the meat is finely ground so it mixes well with the other ingredients. Adjust seasonings accordingly to complement the flavor of the meat you choose.
How can I make these croquettes vegetarian?
To make vegetarian croquettes, replace the ground ham with finely chopped mushrooms or cooked lentils. You can also add grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots to enhance the flavor and texture. Ensure the creamy sauce is made with vegetable broth instead of meat-based options.
What can I do if the croquette mixture is too wet?
If your mixture is too wet to form into croquettes, try adding more flour or cracker crumbs to absorb the excess moisture. Alternatively, refrigerate the mixture for a bit longer to firm it up. You can also use a slotted spoon to help drain any excess liquid before shaping.
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).