Potato Croquettes

Delicious potato croquettes - a simple recipe for a savory side dish

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking/frying time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In every kitchen, there are recipes that quickly become favorites, and potato croquettes are certainly one of them. These little delights, with a soft interior and a crispy exterior, are ideal as a side dish for meat and fish dishes, as well as an appetizer. The history of these croquettes is simple yet full of flavor. A recipe that has evolved over time, adapting to the tastes of each generation.

Necessary ingredients:
- 600 g potatoes (choose starchy potatoes for a finer mash)
- 3 egg yolks
- 3-4 tablespoons flour (you can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 whole beaten egg (to bind all the ingredients)
- Breadcrumbs (for a crispy crust)
- Oil for frying (I suggest sunflower oil or olive oil)

Step by step to achieve perfect croquettes:

1. Boil the potatoes: Wash the potatoes well and place them in salted water to boil. Let them cook until soft, about 20-25 minutes. You can check if they are ready with a fork; if it goes through easily, they are done.

2. Prepare the mash: After boiling the potatoes, drain them and let them cool slightly. Then, mash them with a potato masher or a fork until you achieve a fine mash. Avoid using a blender, as it may become sticky.

3. Add the ingredients: In the cooled potato mash, add the 3 egg yolks, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated. It is important that the mash is cooled; otherwise, the yolks will coagulate.

4. Form the croquettes: Wet your hands with a little oil and shape round or elongated croquettes, about the size of your finger. This step can be fun, so involve your loved ones!

5. Dredging in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs: Prepare a workspace with three bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs. Dredging in flour will help form a crispier crust. So, coat each croquette in flour, then in egg, and finally in breadcrumbs.

6. Chill the croquettes: Place the croquettes on a plate and let them chill in the fridge for a few hours, or you can even freeze them to fry later. This step is essential to ensure that the croquettes hold their shape during frying.

7. Frying: Heat the oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot enough (test with a piece of breadcrumb; if it sizzles, the oil is ready), add the croquettes to the pan without overcrowding. Fry until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

8. Serving: Remove the croquettes onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Serve them hot alongside a garlic yogurt sauce or a fresh salad.

Useful tips:
- You can add grated cheese or fresh herbs to the mixture for an extra flavor boost.
- If you want a healthier option, you can bake the croquettes in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.
- These croquettes are very versatile; you can experiment with different spices and additions, such as sautéed onions or dill.

Nutritional benefits:
These potato croquettes are a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. The addition of eggs brings proteins and essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12. It is a recipe that can satisfy both snack cravings and the need for a hearty meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, you can replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter and more nutritious version.
- What should I do if the dough is too soft? Add a little more flour until it reaches the desired consistency.
- How can I store the croquettes for later? You can freeze the croquettes before frying, and when you want to consume them, fry them directly from the freezer.

Serving combinations are varied: you can accompany the croquettes with a fresh green salad or a juicy steak. Additionally, a yogurt sauce with dill or a tomato chutney will add a touch of freshness. These croquettes are perfect not only for everyday meals but also for parties or special occasions.

Enjoy the cooking process and the final result! With these potato croquettes, you will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!