Crispy pumpkin and quinoa croquettes

Crispy pumpkin and quinoa croquettes blend earthy pumpkin and nutty quinoa with fragrant cumin and sweet currants. These golden-brown patties are perfect as a snack or a main dish, featuring a satisfying crunch from their breadcrumb coating.

18 Feb 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 50 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2 tsp ground cumin
1/3 cup currants
1/2 cup quinoa
1 cup water
2 potatoes
2 cups pumpkin
1/2 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
1/3 cup bread crumbs
2 eggs
1/3 cup feta cheese

Crispy pumpkin and quinoa croquettes are a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and quinoa with the aromatic touch of cumin and the added texture from bread crumbs. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, these croquettes are sure to be a hit at any meal.

Instructions:

1. Preparation of Quinoa:
1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and 1 cup (250g) of water. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water and is tender.
4. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

2. Cooking the Vegetables:
1. While the quinoa is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add the cubed potatoes and pumpkin to the boiling water. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until they are soft and easily pierced with a fork.
3. Drain the potatoes and pumpkin, then mash them together in a large bowl. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Sauteing the Onion and Garlic:
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp (14g) of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in the ground cumin and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Add the currants, stir well, and then remove from heat. Allow to cool slightly.

4. Combining Ingredients:
1. In the large bowl with the mashed potatoes and pumpkin, add the cooked quinoa, the onion mixture, and the crumbled feta cheese. Mix well.
2. Add the flour to the mixture and stir until all ingredients are fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Shape the mixture into small croquettes or patties, about the size of a golf ball. Flatten slightly with your hands.

5. Coating the Croquettes:
1. Set up a breading station with two shallow bowls: one with the beaten eggs and the other with the bread crumbs.
2. Dip each croquette into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Roll the croquette in the bread crumbs until completely coated. Repeat with all croquettes.

6. Frying the Croquettes:
1. In a large skillet, heat enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the croquettes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove the croquettes from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

7. Serving:
1. Serve the crispy pumpkin and quinoa croquettes warm, with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a larger meal.

With their crispy exterior and flavorful interior, these pumpkin and quinoa croquettes are a great addition to any meal. The combination of wholesome ingredients makes them not only delicious but also nutritious. Enjoy them hot and crispy, paired with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side to your main course.

Crispy pumpkin and quinoa croquettes FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover croquettes?

To store leftover croquettes, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When rewarming, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results.

What can I use instead of feta cheese in this recipe?

If you prefer a dairy-free option or need a substitute, you can use vegan feta or omit it altogether. Another alternative is to use ricotta or goat cheese, which will provide a similar creamy texture and flavor.

How long does it take to fry the croquettes until golden brown?

Fry the croquettes for about 3-4 minutes on each side. They should be golden brown and crispy. To ensure they're cooked through, make sure the heat is medium to avoid burning the outside before the inside is heated.

Can I bake the croquettes instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the croquettes for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the croquettes on a greased baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

What is the recommended pan size for frying the croquettes?

A large skillet or frying pan that can comfortably fit all the croquettes without overcrowding is recommended. A 10-12 inch skillet works well, allowing for even frying and easy flipping.

Cooking Tips:

- Make sure to cook the quinoa thoroughly, as undercooked quinoa can affect the texture of the croquettes.

- Drain and dry the pumpkin and potatoes well to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet, which can make it difficult to form the croquettes.

- If the mixture is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before forming the croquettes.

- When frying, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the croquettes to ensure they become crispy and golden brown.

- Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the croquettes.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 360kcal
Protein 14g
Carbohydrates 60g
Fiber 5g
Sugar 13g
Fat 12g

Crispy pumpkin and quinoa croquettes