Serrano Ham & Manchego Croquetas with Smoked Pimentón Magic

Serrano Ham & Manchego Croquetas With Smoked Pimentón Aioli

Serrano Ham & Manchego Croquetas with Smoked Pimentón Magic

Serrano Ham & Manchego Croquetas with a smoky aioli are irresistible, crispy bites perfect for gatherings.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 15

Chilling Time 2

Total Time 2 45

Servings: 6 croquetas

Course: APPETIZERS

Cuisine: Spanish

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Filling

100 grams Serrano Ham Adds a salty umami flavor; substitute with prosciutto if needed.
100 grams Manchego Cheese Brings nuttiness and creaminess; can be exchanged for any semi-hard cheese.
60 grams All-Purpose Flour Provides structure to the croquetas; no direct substitution recommended.
250 ml Milk Creates a creamy base; use whole or plant-based milk.
1 gram Nutmeg Optional, enhances flavor.

For the Breading

2 large Eggs Acts as a binder; try a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
100 grams Panko Breadcrumbs Gives a crispy texture; regular breadcrumbs can be used.

For Frying

500 ml Vegetable Oil Used for frying; any neutral oil works.

For the Smoky Pimentón Aioli

1 tablespoon Smoked Pimentón (Paprika) Infuses a smoky flavor.
150 grams Mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
2 cloves Garlic Adds a punch of flavor.
1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Brightens up the aioli.

Equipment

saucepan
Baking Dish
Shallow dish
Deep pot or fryer

Method

Making the Croquetas

In a saucepan, heat oil and butter, then whisk in flour and gradually stir in milk until smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Serrano ham, Manchego cheese, and nutmeg, stirring until creamy.
Transfer filling to a baking dish, smooth out, cool slightly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Beat eggs in a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs with salt in another. Form chilled mixture into small balls, coat in egg, then breadcrumbs.
Place shaped croquetas on a tray and refrigerate for about 20 minutes.
Heat oil to 350°F, fry croquetas in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Serving

Serve hot with a sprinkle of sea salt and a side of smoky pimentón aioli for dipping.

Nutrition

Serving: 1croquetaCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These croquetas can be prepped ahead; fry them fresh before serving for best results.

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