Ham and chicken croquettes

Delicious Ham and Chicken Croquettes

Who can resist a warm serving of crispy croquettes filled with savory chicken and ham? This dish is not only a perfect choice for an afternoon snack or an appetizer at a party, but also a great way to use leftover meat from roasts. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step on how to prepare these delicious croquettes, providing you with practical tips and tricks to ensure a perfect result.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 liter of milk
- 250 grams of flour
- ½ small onion (or ¼ medium onion)
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil
- 100 grams of cooked chicken (or leftover from a roast)
- 100 grams of ham (preferably prosciutto)
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs
- Breadcrumbs, for coating
- Abundant oil for frying

The history of croquettes

Croquettes have a fascinating history, invented to maximize the use of available ingredients. They have evolved over time, becoming a beloved dish worldwide. Each region has its own variations, but the essence remains the same: a tasty filling and a crispy exterior. In our case, the combination of chicken and ham adds a touch of refinement and flavor.

Preparing the croquettes

1. Prepare the ingredients
Make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. If using leftover roast meat, cut it into small pieces for easy incorporation into the croquette mixture. The ham should also be finely chopped.

2. Heat the milk
Put the milk in a medium saucepan over low heat. Make sure not to leave it unattended to prevent it from burning.

3. Sauté the onion
Meanwhile, in a skillet, add the 2-3 tablespoons of oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until golden. If using raw meat, add it to the skillet along with the onion to cook. If you have leftover cooked meat, you can skip this step.

4. Add the flour
Once the onion is ready, add the flour to it. Mix well, allowing the mixture to change color slightly while being careful not to burn it. It is essential to stir constantly to avoid lumps.

5. Pour in the milk
Once the flour starts to brown, gradually pour in the heated milk while continuously stirring. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, lump-free mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

6. Add the meat
After the sauce has thickened, add the finely chopped chicken and ham. Mix well and let everything cool down. You can refrigerate the mixture overnight to firm it up, but it’s not mandatory.

7. Shape the croquettes
Once the mixture has cooled, take a spoonful and shape it into cylinders about 5-8 cm long and 3 cm thick. This step can be easier if you use a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner cut off.

8. Coat the croquettes
Prepare a bowl with beaten eggs and another with breadcrumbs. Coat each croquette in breadcrumbs, then in egg, and again in breadcrumbs for a perfectly crispy layer.

9. Fry the croquettes
Heat plenty of oil in a deep skillet. When the oil is hot, fry the croquettes until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet to allow for even frying.

10. Drain the croquettes
Once the croquettes are ready, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Useful tips:
- If you're concerned about lumps forming, you can boil the meat before adding it to the mixture. Additionally, if lumps form during preparation, you can use a blender to achieve a smooth paste.
- If you prefer to prepare your croquettes in advance, you can freeze them. Arrange them nicely on a tray, let them freeze, then transfer them to a bag or container. When you want to fry them, take them out of the freezer and let them thaw for an hour, or fry them directly from frozen.
- For an extra touch of flavor, you can add herbs to the filling mixture, such as dill or parsley.

Pairing with other dishes
These croquettes can be served as an appetizer, alongside a fresh salad or with a yogurt and garlic sauce. They also pair perfectly with a glass of white wine or a light beer, highlighting the rich flavors of the ham and chicken.

Nutritional benefits
Ham and chicken croquettes are a good source of protein, thanks to the chicken and ham. Additionally, the flour and eggs provide carbohydrates, and moderate oil consumption for frying can be balanced by including fresh salads in your meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or pork. The ham can be replaced with bacon or any other type of smoked meat.
2. How can I make the croquettes healthier?
For a healthier option, you can bake the croquettes instead of frying them. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly brush them with oil before putting them in the oven.
3. What is the best way to store them?
Once the croquettes have cooled, you can place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or freeze them for later use.

In conclusion, ham and chicken croquettes are a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make dish. They will delight your guests and bring a touch of joy to every meal. So don’t hesitate to try this recipe and customize it to your liking! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1 l milk, 250 g flour, 1/2 small onion (or 1/4 medium onion), 2-3 tablespoons oil, 100 g chicken, 100 g ham (prosciutto), salt, white pepper, 2 eggs and breadcrumbs for coating, plenty of oil for frying

 Tags:  croquettes chicken ham