Tuna and ricotta croquettes

Delicious Tuna and Ricotta Croquettes: The Perfect Treat for Guests

If you’re looking for a recipe that combines the rich flavor of tuna with the creamy texture of ricotta, you’ve come to the right place. These tuna and ricotta croquettes are not just a delicious appetizer, but also a great way to pamper someone special. Imagine how their appetizing aroma fills the kitchen, and each bite brings a smile to your face.

A Little Story About Croquettes

The origins of croquettes are deeply rooted in culinary traditions around the world. These snacks, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, have evolved over time, adapting to available ingredients and local preferences. In this version, we chose to combine simple yet nutritious ingredients, resulting in an appetizer that can be served at parties as well as on quiet evenings at home.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooling time: 2 hours
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
- Total: Approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

- 500 g potatoes
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can of natural tuna (approximately 140 g, drained)
- 40 g ricotta
- 2 tablespoons grated cheese
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Salt, pepper, paprika to taste
- 1-2 eggs, beaten
- Flour (for coating)
- Breadcrumbs (for coating)
- 6-8 tablespoons oil (for frying)

Step by Step

1. Boiling the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes well. Then, place them in a pot with salted water over medium heat. Boil until soft, about 20-30 minutes. Check with a fork to see if they are done. After boiling, drain and let them cool slightly.

2. Preparing the onion and bell pepper: In a skillet, add a tablespoon of oil and sauté the green onions along with the diced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until they become soft and fragrant. Let them cool slightly.

3. Mixing the ingredients: Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Place them in the bowl of a food processor. Add the drained tuna, ricotta, onion and bell pepper mixture, grated cheese, flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything for a few minutes until you get a smooth mixture.

4. Cooling the mixture: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for about 1 hour. This step is essential for firming up the mixture, making it easier to form the croquettes.

5. Forming the croquettes: Once the mixture has cooled, take it out of the refrigerator. With wet hands, form croquettes of the desired size. Place them on a plate.

6. Preparing for frying: Prepare three plates: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and another with breadcrumbs. Coat each croquette in flour, then in egg, and finally in breadcrumbs.

7. Frying the croquettes: In a deep skillet, heat the oil. Once the oil is hot, add the croquettes, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

8. Serving: These croquettes are ideal to be served warm, alongside a crunchy green salad or a yogurt garlic sauce. You can also add a few slices of lemon for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical Tips

- Vegetarian option: You can replace the tuna with grilled vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Adding herbs: You can experiment with herbs like dill or parsley, which will add extra flavor.
- Freezing: These croquettes can be frozen before frying. Place them on a tray and, once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to serve them, fry them directly from the freezer.

Nutritional Benefits

These croquettes are a good source of protein thanks to the tuna and ricotta. The potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, while the onion and bell pepper add a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants. They are perfect for an appetizer but also for a light dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use tuna in oil?: Yes, but make sure to drain the oil well before adding it to the mixture.
- What can I use instead of ricotta?: You can use cottage cheese or mascarpone, but the taste will be different.
- Can I make them in advance?: Absolutely! You can prepare the croquettes a day ahead and fry them just before serving.

In conclusion, tuna and ricotta croquettes are an excellent choice for any occasion, from a family dinner to a party with friends. With each bite, you’ll bring a touch of joy and comfort, turning any meal into a celebration. So don’t hesitate to try them and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!