| Preparation time | 20 min |
| Cooking Time | 20 min |
| Ready In | 40 min |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 6 |
They are small, cylindrical-shaped snacks that are typically made with a filling of ground meat, seafood, chicken or vegetables, mixed with a creamy white sauce, and then coated in breadcrumbs before being deep-fried until golden and crispy.
The most common type of croquette in Portugal is the croquete de carne, or meat croquette, which is made with a filling of ground beef, onion, and sometimes ham or chorizo, mixed with a creamy white sauce made with milk and flour. Other popular variations include croquetes de bacalhau (salt cod croquettes), croquetes de camarão (shrimp croquettes), and croquetes de espinafres (spinach croquettes).
Portuguese croquettes are often served as an appetizer or snack, either on their own or with dipping sauces such as mayonnaise, ketchup, or piri-piri sauce. They can also be served as a main course, accompanied by rice, fries, or a salad.
Overall, Portuguese croquettes are a tasty and satisfying snack or meal option that is enjoyed by many people both in Portugal and around the world.
Ingredients
Directions
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the onion and garlic until soft and translucent.
- Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture starts to turn golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Add the shredded chicken, parsley, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Once the chicken mixture has cooled, shape it into small croquettes.
- Dip each croquette into the beaten eggs, then coat it with breadcrumbs.
- A deep frying pan with medium heat is used to heat the oil. Fry the croquettes in batches until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Drain the croquettes on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
