Polenta croquettes

Polenta Croquettes: A Rustic Delicacy

If you're looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe, polenta croquettes are the perfect choice. These snacks are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, and the combination of cheese and smoked meat makes them irresistible. Polenta, a traditional ingredient, serves as the perfect base to create these little delights. Let's embark on a culinary adventure together!

Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 2 hours (set)
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total: 2 hours and 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:
- 500 g polenta (preferably leftovers from a previous recipe)
- 200 g cheese (preferably sheep cheese or telemea)
- 100 g bacon, ham, or smoked pork belly
- 2 eggs
- 150 g breadcrumbs
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of pepper
- Oil for frying
- Grated cheese (for serving)
- Fried eggs (for serving)

Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g

Necessary Utensils:
- A baking tray
- A large bowl
- A deep frying pan
- A whisk
- A spatula
- A serving plate

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Polenta:
If you have leftover polenta, make sure it is well refrigerated for a few hours. This will make it firmer and easier to handle. If you don't have cooked polenta, you can prepare it from water and cornmeal, letting it cool well before use.

2. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, crumble the cold polenta with a fork. Add the cheese at room temperature and mix well until fully integrated. Taste the mixture and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking.

3. Forming the Croquettes:
Take a handful of the polenta mixture and form small balls the size of an egg. In the center of each ball, insert a small piece of bacon, ham, or pork belly. Wrap the polenta around the filling, carefully rounding it to form balls. Ensure the filling is well covered.

4. Preparing for Frying:
Prepare two bowls: one with beaten eggs, adding a pinch of salt and pepper, and another with breadcrumbs. Dip each croquette in the beaten egg, then in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are completely coated. This layer will give the croquettes a crispy texture when fried.

5. Frying the Croquettes:
In a deep frying pan, add enough oil to cover the bottom. Heat the oil over medium heat. When it is hot, add the croquettes, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them on all sides until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

6. Serving:
Remove the croquettes onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Serve them hot, sprinkled with grated cheese and accompanied by fried eggs. This combination will add extra flavor and turn the dish into a true feast.

Practical Tips:
- Choose ingredients carefully: Use quality cheese, preferably smoked, for an intense flavor. Bacon or smoked pork belly adds a distinct aroma, but you can experiment with other types of meat or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Oven Version: If you want to reduce the amount of oil, you can bake the croquettes in the oven at 180°C for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Freezing: These croquettes can be frozen before frying. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer. Once they are firm, you can transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to prepare them, just fry them directly from the freezer.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use warm polenta? While you can use warm polenta, it is recommended to use cold polenta to shape the croquettes without falling apart.
- What type of cheese is best? Sheep cheese, telemea, or any smoked cheese that melts well are ideal.
- Can they be made without meat? Of course! You can omit the meat and add herbs, mushrooms, or olives for a vegetarian option.

Pairings and Serving:
These polenta croquettes pair perfectly with a fresh vegetable salad or a spicy tomato sauce. You can also serve alongside a glass of white wine or a cold beer to complement the flavors.

Conclusion:
Polenta croquettes are not just a simple recipe but also a way to bring a touch of nostalgia to your plate. Whether you prepare them for a family meal or a gathering with friends, these little delights are sure to impress. Enjoy the dish and savor every bite!