01 May 2025
Cook time 36 min
Prep time 80 min
Ingredients:
2 potatoes
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp butter
2/3 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
3/4 cup milk (1% fat)
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 eggs
3 cups bread crumbs
1/3 cup hazelnuts
1/2 cup fresh parsley
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 cup olive oil
Potato croquettes with picada are a delightful combination of creamy mashed potatoes, rich cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb coating, served with a flavorful picada sauce made from hazelnuts, fresh parsley, and lemon juice. This dish is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a side dish, sure to impress any guest with its delicious taste and texture.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and dice the potatoes. Place them in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them until smooth.
2. Make the Croquette Mixture:
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the flour to the saucepan and stir constantly to create a roux. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the mashed potatoes and grated parmesan cheese to the saucepan. Mix until well combined.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to cool slightly.
3. Form and Coat the Croquettes:
- Shape the potato mixture into small croquettes or patties.
- Set up three bowls: one with the beaten eggs, one with flour, and one with the bread crumbs.
- Coat each croquette first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally roll in bread crumbs until evenly coated. Place the coated croquettes on a baking sheet.
4. Prepare the Picada:
- In a food processor or blender, combine the hazelnuts, parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fry the Croquettes:
- Heat olive oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the croquettes in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried croquettes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve:
- Serve the hot potato croquettes with the picada sauce drizzled on top or as a dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!
Tips:
- When mashing the potatoes, ensure they are completely smooth to avoid lumps in your croquettes.
- Chill the potato mixture in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to shape into croquettes.
- Double coat the croquettes in bread crumbs for extra crispiness.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying results.
- Prepare the picada sauce in advance to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the croquettes immediately while they are hot and crispy for the best experience.
Potato croquettes with picada offer a wonderful harmony of flavors and textures. The creamy potato and cheese interior paired with the crispy golden exterior create a perfect bite, complemented by the zesty and nutty picada. This recipe is an excellent addition to any meal or gathering, showcasing your cooking skills and delighting everyone's taste buds.