Croquetas de Jamón

These Spanish Ham Croquettes are a delicious and crispy snack, perfect for any tapas or appetizer table. The creamy, flavorful filling of ham, béchamel, and spices is perfectly encased in a golden, crunchy exterior. Whether served as an appetizer or a comforting snack, these croquettes are sure to be a hit.

The combination of smooth, rich béchamel and savory ham makes these croquettes both decadent and satisfying. Pair them with a chilled glass of Spanish wine for the ultimate tapas experience. These bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing with friends and family, making them ideal for parties, holidays, or any occasion where you want to impress.

Full Recipe:

2 cups cooked ham, finely chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups milk

2 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, beaten

Olive oil, for frying

Directions:

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the ham to the pan and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.

Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux, and continue to stir until the mixture thickens and forms a smooth béchamel sauce.
Add the béchamel sauce to the ham mixture. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well, and cook until the mixture is thick enough to hold its shape, about 10 minutes.
Let the mixture cool in the fridge for at least 1 hour.

Once cooled, shape the mixture into small croquettes (about 1.5-inch long cylinders).
Roll each croquette in breadcrumbs, then dip in the beaten egg, and roll in breadcrumbs again.
Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Fry the croquettes in batches, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per batch.

Transfer the croquettes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

History and Origin

The origins of croquetas can be traced back to France in the 18th century, where they were initially developed as a way to use up leftover meat or fish. The word “croquette” comes from the French word “croquer,” meaning “to crunch,” which perfectly describes the golden, crispy outer shell of the dish.

Croquetas de Jamón, specifically, have deep roots in Spanish cuisine. Ham, particularly jamón ibérico or jamón serrano, plays a central role in Spanish cooking, so it’s no surprise that the croquette became a Spanish favorite. The dish evolved over time, and croquetas became a staple in Spanish tapas bars, where they were often served alongside other small plates like tortilla española, patatas bravas, and calamari.

Though originally a way to use up leftovers, today’s croquetas are made from scratch with high-quality ingredients, and they are a popular choice for tapas, parties, and holiday feasts. Each region in Spain has its own take on the classic recipe, adding local twists and variations, but the fundamental components of ham and béchamel remain the same.

Variations and Adaptations

While the traditional Croquetas de Jamón are made with ham and béchamel sauce, this versatile recipe can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. For instance, some variations incorporate different meats like chicken or beef, while others go vegetarian by using mushrooms, spinach, or cheese as the filling. These variations can be a great way to accommodate different dietary needs or to experiment with new flavors.

In certain regions of Spain, you might find croquettes filled with other types of cured meats, such as chorizo or sobrasada, offering a more robust flavor profile. In some Andalusian regions, seafood croquettes, particularly those made with shrimp or cod, are also popular. These variations offer a delightful twist on the original ham-filled version, showcasing the adaptability of croquetas.

The process of making croquetas can also vary slightly across regions, with some versions incorporating a touch of wine or cream into the béchamel sauce for added richness. Whether you stick with the classic ham filling or explore creative twists, croquetas are always a crowd-pleasing snack.

Nutritional Information

Croquetas de Jamón, like many fried foods, are delicious but not the lightest option on the menu. However, when prepared with care, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. A typical serving of croquetas provides a hearty amount of calories, protein, and fat, making them filling and satisfying.

A single croqueta (around 50g) typically contains around 100-120 calories, with a significant portion of these calories coming from fats due to the frying process. Most of the fat in croquetas is unsaturated, especially when olive oil is used for frying, which is common in Spanish cooking.

In terms of protein, the combination of ham and béchamel sauce offers a moderate amount of protein per serving, making croquetas a decent source of this macronutrient. However, for those looking to reduce the calorie count or fat intake, baking the croquettes instead of frying them can provide a healthier alternative without sacrificing too much of the crispiness.

Croquetas also contain important micronutrients like vitamin A, iron, and calcium, especially if you use dairy-based béchamel. However, due to their frying method and relatively high-fat content, they should be enjoyed occasionally as a treat rather than a regular part of your diet.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Croquetas de Jamón are traditionally served as part of a larger tapas spread, accompanied by a variety of other Spanish small plates. These could include dishes like patatas bravas (crispy potatoes with spicy tomato sauce), albondigas (meatballs), and tortilla española (Spanish omelet). Their crispy texture and rich, creamy filling make them a fantastic complement to lighter tapas dishes, providing a satisfying contrast in both flavor and texture.

In terms of beverages, Croquetas de Jamón pair beautifully with a chilled glass of Spanish white wine or a light red, such as a refreshing Albariño or a smooth Rioja. For a more authentic experience, you might also enjoy them with a glass of Sangria, a fruity and festive Spanish punch that balances out the richness of the croquettes.

For a more substantial meal, croquetas can be served with a simple salad of mixed greens dressed in olive oil and lemon. The freshness of the salad provides a nice counterpoint to the indulgent croquettes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing them with a side of homemade aioli or spicy tomato sauce for dipping, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Making perfect croquetas can be a bit tricky, but with these expert tips, you’ll be able to master the art of croquetas de jamón:

Let the filling cool completely: After cooking the ham mixture, it’s crucial to let it cool for at least an hour in the refrigerator. This ensures the croquettes hold their shape when frying and prevents them from falling apart.
Use the right flour-to-milk ratio: Achieving the right consistency for your béchamel is key. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon without running off, but not so thick that it becomes difficult to stir. A good rule of thumb is to start with equal parts butter and flour and then slowly add the milk, stirring constantly.

Double breading for extra crispiness: For a crunchy, golden exterior, dip your croquettes in beaten egg and coat them with breadcrumbs twice. This extra layer of breadcrumbs helps create a crispier shell.
Fry at the right temperature: The oil should be hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) so that the croquettes cook quickly without absorbing too much oil. If the oil is too cold, the croquettes will become soggy and greasy.
Consider baking for a lighter version: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can bake the croquettes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through for an even, golden finish.

Potential Health Benefits

While croquetas de jamón are a delicious treat, their health benefits come primarily from the ingredients used in the filling. Ham, for instance, is a good source of protein and provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. The béchamel sauce, made with milk and butter, also provides calcium, which is important for bone health, as well as vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.

If you’re making your croquetas with olive oil, you’re also incorporating heart-healthy fats into the dish. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

That being said, because croquetas are fried, they should be consumed in moderation. Enjoy them as part of a balanced diet, and feel free to incorporate more vegetables or lean proteins into the filling to boost the nutritional value.

Conclusion

Croquetas de Jamón are a quintessential Spanish treat that captures the essence of Spanish cuisine – flavorful, comforting, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether served at a tapas party, as part of a holiday feast, or simply as a savory snack, they are sure to impress. By following a few simple tips, you can make this iconic dish at home and enjoy the crispy, creamy goodness that has made croquetas a staple in Spanish kitchens for generations. Don’t hesitate to get creative with variations, explore different fillings, and pair them with your favorite beverages for a truly unforgettable experience.