Ham Croquettes(Leftovers)
Ham croquettes offer a delightful appetizer or snack with crispy exteriors and tender, savory ham centers. Rich buttery flavor complemented by mustard and onion makes them perfect for entertaining or a quick treat. Their golden crunch and hearty filling appeal to all ages and taste preferences.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet; blend in flour.
- Add milk all at once, cook and stir until thick and bubbly; cook and stir 1 minute more.
- Remove from heat.
- Add coarsely ground cooked ham, grated onion, and mustard; mix well.
- Chill the mixture well.
- Shape into 8 to 10 balls.
- Roll each ball in dry bread crumbs.
- Shape into cones, handling lightly.
- Combine egg and water; dip cones in the mixture.
- Roll cones again in bread crumbs.
- Fry in deep hot fat at 365°F for 1½ to 2 minutes.
- Drain on paper towels.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the ham mixture. If you don't have dry bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers or even panko for a crunchier texture. Ensure the mixture is well chilled before shaping; this helps maintain the shape during frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these ham croquettes with a tangy dipping sauce, such as mustard or a spicy aioli, for an extra kick. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside mashed potatoes or the comforting flavors of Potato-Broccoli Cheese Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, allowing them to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Croquettes(Leftovers) contains roughly 197 calories, with 6g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% 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 different types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cooked ham, you can substitute it with other leftovers such as cooked chicken or turkey. Just ensure the meat is coarsely ground to maintain the texture of the croquettes.
How do I make these croquettes gluten-free?
To make gluten-free ham croquettes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free bread crumbs. Ensure all your other ingredients, like mustard and any seasonings, are also gluten-free.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ham mixture a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, shape and fry them as directed. This can save time on busy days!
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).