One of the most popular and iconic dishes is croquette. It is a small, cylindrical and oval-shaped food item. It should be deep fried and sometimes baked. These are the golden bites, very soft, delicious and creamy from inside and so crispy from outside. It is the heart of the dish. It consists of a thick, savoury filling, often with mashed potatoes, ground meat, fish, vegetables. When you bind it all together with a bechamel sauce or other creamy biner, it gives a satisfying taste. This mixture is shaped very well and coated in breadcrumbs, cooked until golden brown.
In this blogpost, you will learn and make an authentic and delicious Spanish croquette at home with me. It is easy, simple and tasty. You will love it.
Table of Contents
What Are Croquetas?
The word croquette is derived from the French word croquer meaning to crunch. A popular creation which is known for its crispiness, flavour and taste. It is satisfying and comforting food. It is enjoyed worldwide as an appetizer, a snack, side dishes, a part of a tapas meal, or even light meals.
You can find this dish everywhere in Spain, every region has its unique taste, so local ingredients are used. It includes ham, chicken or cheese. It is loved by people of all ages.
It is spread in bars and home kitchens. It is more than just a bite, it melts in your mouth and a blasting of flavours. It represents the Spanish food culture. It is perfect for a cozy meal.
Origin of Croquetas
It originated from French, in the 18th century. Chef Antonin Careme firstly served this erosion as a royal. It is a brilliant idea of creamy texture filled in crispy coating. The name of this dish describes the meaning of the dish. After that, it spread in Spain and became a part of traditional cuisine.
Spanish cooks give it their own taste with sauces as the base instead of mashed potatoes. It is a part of a classic dish, and many families enjoy this all over the world. Today, we can enjoy it with vegetables, cheese and leftover meat.
Basic Ingredients
You will need some basic kitchen ingredients and have a wide variety of fillings. It has four main and basic points as the dough or base, the filling, the coating, and oil for frying.
1. Dough (Béchamel Base)
This creamy sauce is the heart of every croqueta.
- 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (500 ml) whole milk, warm
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
2. Filling (Choose One or Mix)
Pick your favorite or use leftovers!
- 100 g jamón serrano (Spanish ham), finely chopped
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked mushrooms, chopped
- 100 g salt cod (bacalao), cooked and flaked
- 1/2 cup cheese (like manchego or mozzarella), grated
3. Coating
To get that perfect crispy shell.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (fine)
4. Oil for Frying
- Vegetable oil or sunflower oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
A delicious fried snack, creamy filling recipe step by step instructions are given as:
Step 1: Make the Béchamel Sauce
- Use a large pan, Over medium heat firstly, melt the butter.
- Add flour and mix constantly for 1-2 minutes until it becomes a smooth paste.
- Add the warm milk in a mixture, whisk well, and avoid making lumps.
- Stir until the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
- Season it with salt, pepper.
Step 2: Add Your Filling
- When the béchamel is thick, add the filling you wanted like chopped ham, shredded chicken, or mushrooms.
- Stir it so they evenly mix into the sauce.
- Cook for at least 1-2 minutes and then remove from the heat.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
- Pour the mixture you prepared into a shallow dish or tray you used.
- Cool it at room temperature.
- Use wrap to cover and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours or overnight, if possible.
- Cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight.
Step 4: Shape and bread the Croquetas
- Make oval shaped or ovals about the size of the thumb.
- Place them on a tray and keep them cold until ready to coat.
- Roll each croqueta in flour finely, dip into the beaten egg, and then finally coat with breadcrumbs.
- For extra crunch, coat it again.
Step 6: Fry Until Golden
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat and carefully add croquettes.
- Fry for 2–3 minutes on each side, until it becomes golden brown.
- Place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
With just a few simple steps, you can bring the sweet taste of Spain home—crispy churros and rich chocolate, made easy for every beginner.
How to Serve Croquetas
- As Tapas: Use classic dips like garlic aioli or spicy tomato sauce.
- With Sides: Pair them with a fresh side salad, crusty bread, or a glass of Spanish wine like Rioja or Albariño. It is such a good combo.
- For Any Occasion: Great as party snacks, appetizers, or even a light family dinner.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about croquetas is how adaptable they are! You can fill them with many different ingredients based on what you like or what you have at home. Here are some popular Spanish croqueta variations:
Croquetas de Jamón (Ham Croquettes)
This is the most traditional and popular version in Spain.
- Made with finely chopped jamón serrano (Spanish cured ham).
- Salty, savory, and full of flavor.
Croquetas de Pollo (Chicken Croquettes)
Use leftover roast chicken or boiled chicken.
- Smooth and comforting, perfect for kids and family meals.
- Enhance taste by adding a bit of onion or garlic.
Croquetas de Bacalao (Salt Cod Croquettes)
A coastal favorite, especially during Lent and Easter.
- Made with salt that’s soaked, boiled, and flaked in this recipe.
- Sometimes these ingredients include garlic, parsley, or mashed potatoes.
Vegetarian Options
Don’t eat meat? No problem! Try these tasty vegetarian fillings:
- Mushrooms – earthy and rich in flavor
- Spinach and cheese – a creamy, healthy combo
- Cheese only – use manchego, mozzarella, or your favorite meltable cheese
Conclusion
We have transformed the simple ingredients into a universally classic and cherished dish. Now that you’ve learned how to make authentic Spanish croquetas, it’s so comforting and has a surprisingly different taste. It brings comfort in your kitchen!
Croquettes recipe always hits differently . The crispiness and softness in this recipe has my whole heart. Whether you choose ham, chicken, cod, or a vegetarian filling, croquetas are always a hit. After making this recipe, enjoy it with family and friends, and serve at parties.
Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bite of Spain at home.
