Are you craving a taste of Cuba? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for Croquetas, the delicious Cuban ham and chicken croquettes. These crispy and golden bites are packed with flavor and make for the perfect appetizer or snack. With a crunchy outer coating and a creamy filling made from a combination of ham, chicken, and a rich béchamel sauce, each bite is a burst of savory goodness. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want to treat yourself, these croquetas are sure to be a hit. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the streets of Havana with this irresistible recipe.
Croquetas Ingredients
To make delicious Cuban ham and chicken croquettes, you will need the following ingredients:
Chicken
Prepare some cooked chicken to add flavor and texture to your croquettes.
Ham
Include some diced or shredded ham to enhance the taste and richness of the croquettes.
Milk
You will need milk to create a creamy béchamel sauce, which will bind the ingredients together.
Butter
Butter adds richness and flavor to the béchamel sauce, giving your croquettes a delightful taste.
All-purpose flour
Mix flour with the butter to create a roux, which will thicken the béchamel sauce and provide a creamy consistency.
Breadcrumbs
Coat your croquettes with breadcrumbs to give them a deliciously crispy and golden exterior.
Eggs
Whisk some eggs to dip the croquettes before coating them with breadcrumbs. This will act as an adhesive, helping the breadcrumbs stick to the croquettes.
Garlic
Add minced garlic to the béchamel sauce for a subtle hint of delicious flavor.
Onion
Chop some onion finely and cook it with the béchamel sauce to give your croquettes a savory taste.
Parsley
Add chopped parsley to the mixture for a touch of freshness and vibrant color.
Croquetas Recipe
Cooking the chicken and ham
Start by cooking the chicken and ham. You can boil or roast the chicken until it is fully cooked and shred it into small pieces. Dice or shred the ham separately. These cooked meats will provide the filling for your croquettes.
Preparation of the béchamel sauce
To create the béchamel sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent. Sprinkle all-purpose flour into the mixture and cook for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to cool before using it in the croquette mixture.
Mixing the chicken and ham with the béchamel
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and ham with the cooled béchamel sauce. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This mixture will form the flavorful filling of your croquettes.
Shaping the croquettes
Take a portion of the croquette mixture and shape it into a cylinder or oval shape, about 2-3 inches long. Repeat this step until you have shaped all the croquettes.
Coating the croquettes
In one bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each croquette into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Then roll the croquette in the breadcrumbs, making sure the outer layer is covered evenly.
Frying the croquettes
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large frying pan. When the oil reaches the appropriate temperature, carefully place the coated croquettes into the hot oil. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once cooked, remove the croquettes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serving
Presentation
Arrange the golden-brown croquettes on a serving platter. You can garnish them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or serve them with a side of your choice.
Accompaniments
Cuban ham and chicken croquettes can be enjoyed on their own as a delectable snack or appetizer. Alternatively, you can serve them as part of a larger meal, accompanied by a variety of dips, sauces, or even a salad. They pair exceptionally well with tangy mustard or zesty aioli sauces, adding a delightful contrast to the croquette’s creamy filling.
Storage
Refrigeration
If you have leftovers or want to prepare the croquettes in advance, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3-4 days when refrigerated properly.
Freezing
To freeze the croquettes, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the freezer until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly stored, the croquettes can last for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and then bake them in the oven until heated through or refry them until they are crispy again.
Variations
Shrimp croquettes
For a seafood twist, you can substitute the chicken and ham with cooked and chopped shrimp. The rest of the recipe remains the same, allowing you to enjoy shrimp croquettes with a similar flavorful filling.
Vegetable croquettes
To make vegetarian-friendly croquettes, exclude the chicken and ham altogether. Instead, add a combination of sautéed vegetables, such as carrots, peas, corn, and bell peppers, to the béchamel sauce. This will create a delicious, vegetable-filled croquette that is both satisfying and bursting with flavors.
Cheese croquettes
If you prefer a cheesy delight, you can incorporate grated or diced cheese into the croquette mixture. Cheddar, mozzarella, or any other melting cheese of your choice can be added for a gooey and flavorful surprise when you bite into the croquette.
Tips and Tricks
Use cold béchamel
Ensure that the béchamel sauce has cooled completely before mixing it with the chicken and ham. This will prevent the mixture from becoming too liquidy and difficult to shape.
Chill the mixture before shaping
After mixing the croquette filling ingredients, refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This will make it firmer and easier to shape into croquettes, retaining their shape during frying.
Coat the croquettes twice
To achieve an extra crispy and golden crust, dip the shaped croquettes in the beaten eggs and breadcrumbs twice, allowing each coat to dry before repeating the process.
Fry at the right temperature
Maintain the oil temperature between 350-375°F (175-190°C) while frying the croquettes. This will result in a crispy exterior and a perfectly cooked interior.
Avoid overcrowding the pan
To ensure even cooking, fry the croquettes in small batches, leaving enough space between them in the pan. Overcrowding can lead to uneven browning and a compromised texture.
History
Origins of croquetas
The croquette, or croqueta, has its roots in French cuisine. It is believed to have originated in France in the early 18th century. The original French croquette was made with leftover meat or fish, combined with a béchamel sauce, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried until crispy. It quickly gained popularity and spread across Europe, leading to various regional adaptations.
Cuban adaptation
Cuba embraced the croquette as part of its culinary culture. Cuban croquetas are renowned for their flavorful fillings and crispy exteriors. The Cuban adaptation typically includes ham and chicken, influenced by the Spanish and French cuisines that have had a significant impact on Cuban cooking traditions.
Cultural Significance
Croquetas in Cuban cuisine
Croquetas hold a significant place in Cuban cuisine and are a beloved staple among the locals. They are often enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal. Cuban croquetas are commonly found in households, street food stalls, and traditional Cuban restaurants, showcasing their cultural significance and popularity.
Traditional celebrations and gatherings
Croquetas are a common sight during traditional Cuban celebrations and gatherings. Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or a holiday feast, croquetas are frequently served, bringing people together over the shared love of these delectable treats. Their presence on the table adds a touch of comfort and nostalgia, making them an integral part of Cuban culinary traditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cuban ham and chicken croquettes are a delightful and versatile dish, perfect for any occasion. By combining simple ingredients and following a few key steps, you can create crispy, savory croquettes that are sure to impress. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meal, these croquettes bring a taste of Cuban culture to your plate. Another awesome Cuban recipe you should consider is Yuca con Mojo and we have you covered. So go ahead, gather the ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to create your own batch of mouthwatering Cuban croquettes!