Cuban Ham Croquettes

These Cuban ham croquettes have a thin, crisp shell and a smooth, savory center. Thoroughly chilling the filling is essential for shaping and frying them without splitting.

Recipe details

• Prep time: 25 min + frío
• Cook time: 15 min
• Total time: 2 hr 40 min
• Servings: 18 croquettes
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Estimated cost per serving: $0.55

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/3 cup very finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups warm whole milk
• 8 oz (225 g) ham, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 1/2 cups fine breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-step instructions

1. Melt the butter and cook the onion for 3 minutes. Add the flour and stir for 2 minutes.
2. Gradually whisk in the warm milk. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until the mixture becomes very thick.
3. Stir in the ham, nutmeg and pepper. Taste before adding salt. Spread in a dish, cover directly on the surface and chill for 2 hours.
4. Divide the filling into 18 portions and shape into cylinders with lightly oiled hands.
5. Dip each croquette in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs. Refrigerate for 20 minutes while heating the oil to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until golden. Drain and rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Tips and variations

• The mixture should pull away from the pan before chilling.
• Freeze breaded croquettes and fry from frozen, adding about 1 minute.

Leer esta receta en español: Croquetas Cubanas de Jamón

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