Description: Croquetas de Jamón are a beloved Spanish tapa featuring a creamy béchamel sauce infused with finely chopped ham, which is then breaded and fried to golden perfection. These crispy, savory croquettes are a staple in Spanish cuisine, often enjoyed in tapas bars and family gatherings.
History: The origins of croquetas can be traced back to French cuisine, where croquettes were a way to use up leftovers. The Spanish adopted and adapted the recipe, making it their own with the inclusion of local ingredients such as jamón (ham). Today, Croquetas de Jamón are an iconic part of Spanish culinary tradition, celebrated for their versatility and deliciousness.
Preparation Time: 1 hour (plus 2 hours chilling time)
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Serving Size: Serves 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup finely chopped ham (preferably Serrano or Iberico)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
Make the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture turns a pale golden color.
- Gradually add the warmed milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
Add the Ham and Seasonings:
- Stir in the finely chopped ham, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the ham is evenly distributed throughout the béchamel.
Chill the Mixture:
- Transfer the béchamel mixture to a shallow dish and let it cool slightly.
- Cover with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm.
Shape the Croquetas:
- Once the mixture is chilled, use your hands to shape it into small logs or balls, about 2 inches long and 1 inch in diameter.
Bread the Croquetas:
- Set up a breading station with the beaten eggs in one bowl and the breadcrumbs in another.
- Dip each croqueta into the egg, letting any excess drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
- Place the breaded croquetas on a plate and repeat until all are coated.
Fry the Croquetas:
- In a deep frying pan or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the croquetas in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried croquetas to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve:
- Serve the croquetas hot, with a sprinkle of salt if desired.
Final Thoughts: Croquetas de Jamón are a delightful example of Spanish comfort food, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Their creamy, savory filling contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior, making them an irresistible treat. Whether served as an appetizer or part of a tapas spread, these croquettes showcase the rich flavors and culinary heritage of Spain.