Croquettes with prosciutto crudo

Crostini with prosciutto crudo

If you are looking for a festive appetizer that will impress your guests, you have come to the right place! Crostini with prosciutto crudo are a simple delicacy to prepare, yet with a refined taste. These little treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you are hosting a party, a family dinner, or simply want to indulge in something special. Let's begin the culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 100 g prosciutto crudo (or dry ham)
- 80 g sliced green olives
- 50 g flour
- 50 g butter
- 500 ml milk
- A pinch of cinnamon
- 2 eggs and one yolk
- 100 g breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
- Salt and pepper

Step by step for a perfect recipe

1. Preparing the béchamel: Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Make sure it doesn’t burn, as burnt butter can ruin the taste of the béchamel. Once the butter has melted, add the flour and whisk vigorously. This step is essential as it helps create a smooth roux. Continue whisking for about 2-3 minutes.

2. Adding the milk: Begin to gradually add the milk, little by little, while constantly stirring. I recommend using room temperature milk to avoid lumps. After incorporating all the milk, let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan. This is where you can add a pinch of salt, pepper, and a subtle hint of cinnamon, which will add depth to the flavor.

3. Adding the main ingredients: Once the béchamel has simmered, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the diced prosciutto, sliced olives, and egg yolk. Mix all the ingredients well, ensuring that the prosciutto blends evenly with the béchamel. This mixture will provide the texture and flavor of your croquettes.

4. Cooling the mixture: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it sit in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up slightly. This step is important for being able to form the croquettes easily.

5. Shaping the croquettes: Once the mixture has cooled, wet your hands with cold water to prevent sticking. Take a portion of the mixture and shape it into croquettes of your desired size. It is important to make them uniform so they cook evenly.

6. Dipping in egg and breadcrumbs: Beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper in a separate bowl. Dipping the croquettes in egg will help the breadcrumbs adhere better. So, dip each croquette in egg and then in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well coated.

7. Frying: In a deep pan, heat the oil until it reaches the optimal frying temperature (around 180°C). Fry the croquettes until they are golden and crispy, for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Use a spatula to carefully turn them. Once done, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

8. Serving: Croquettes with prosciutto crudo are served hot but can also be enjoyed cold, making them ideal for parties. You can garnish them with lemon slices or olives and accompany them with a yogurt or tzatziki sauce for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical tips

- Vegetarian option: You can replace prosciutto with goat cheese or sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Finding the perfect prosciutto: Choose a high-quality prosciutto with a rich flavor and fine texture. This will make a difference in your dish.
- Caring for the oil: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the croquettes to avoid excessive oil absorption.
- Healthy cooking: If you want a healthier option, you can bake the croquettes in the oven at 200°C for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Nutritional benefits

These croquettes are a good source of protein due to the prosciutto and eggs. The flour and milk provide carbohydrates, while the olives offer healthy fats. However, consume them in moderation as frying adds extra calories.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I freeze them? Yes, croquettes can be frozen before frying. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent excessive freezing.

2. What sauces pair well? Yogurt-based sauces, ketchup, or even a spicy sauce can perfectly complement the flavor of the croquettes.

3. Can I use black olives? Sure, black olives add a different flavor note but will slightly change the flavor profile.

4. How can I adapt the recipe for kids? You can omit the olives and cinnamon for a kid-friendly version, and some milder spices can make the dish more appealing to little ones.

These croquettes with prosciutto crudo are definitely an appetizer that will leave an unforgettable impression. So gather the ingredients, follow the steps carefully, and enjoy a culinary delight that everyone will love!

Preparation of béchamel: melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat, then add the flour and mix vigorously. Gradually add the milk while whisking, and let it boil for 5 minutes, stirring continuously. Add salt, pepper, and cinnamon, then remove from heat. Cut the prosciutto crudo into cubes and add it to the béchamel, along with the olives and egg yolk, mixing well. Refrigerate for 15 minutes. Beat the eggs well with salt and pepper. Remove the mixture from the refrigerator, form croquettes (wet your hands with cold water to shape them), dip them in egg, then in breadcrumbs, and fry in well-heated oil. Place on a paper towel to absorb excess oil, and serve after they are crispy. The 3D heating technology ensures even heat distribution, eliminating the need for stirring, and with 12 cooking programs, it can satisfy all my family's cravings. The croquettes are served cold.

 Ingredients: For 4 people - 100 g of prosciutto crudo - 80 g of sliced green olives - 50 g of flour - 50 g of butter - 500 ml of milk - cinnamon - 2 eggs and one yolk - 100 g of breadcrumbs - oil for frying - salt and pepper

 Tags:  party appetizers cold appetizers appetizers with ham croquette recipes philips multicooker recipes