Embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant streets of Cuba with our mouthwatering recipe for Authentic Cuban Croquetas. These savory delights are a beloved staple of Cuban cuisine, featuring a crispy golden exterior and a creamy, flavorful filling that will transport you to the heart of Havana with every bite. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or part of a festive meal, these croquetas are sure to captivate your taste buds and evoke the rich flavors of Cuban culture. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the secrets to crafting these delectable treats.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup cooked ham, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
For Coating and Frying:
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
- In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk until smooth and thickened to form a béchamel sauce.
- Add the cooked ham, cooked chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the saucepan.
- Cook, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
- Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Allow the filling to cool completely.
2. Shape the Croquetas:
- Once the filling has cooled, take a spoonful of the mixture and shape it into a cylinder, about 2 inches long and 1 inch in diameter. Repeat with the remaining filling.
- Place the shaped croquetas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
3. Coat and Fry the Croquetas:
- Prepare three shallow bowls: one with beaten eggs, one with breadcrumbs, and one empty.
- Dip each chilled croqueta first into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Place on the empty plate.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add the coated croquetas to the hot oil in batches, frying until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
4. Serving and Enjoying:
- Serve the Authentic Cuban Croquetas hot and crispy, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce or enjoyed on their own.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of flavor.
Conclusion:
With their crispy exterior and creamy, flavorful filling, Authentic Cuban Croquetas are a celebration of the rich culinary heritage of Cuba. Whether shared with friends and family or savored as a solo indulgence, these delectable treats are sure to bring a taste of Havana to your table. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the flavors of Cuba, and indulge in the irresistible delight of homemade croquetas!
