Anhui Style 5-Spice Corn Croquettes Recipe
Anhui Style 5-Spice Corn Croquettes are a delectable, slightly spicy appetizer that is perfect for any gathering or festive occasion. These crispy golden croquettes are made with a combination of coarsely ground sweet corn and crumbled tofu, flavored with the unique and aromatic Chinese 5-Spice Powder. The addition of fresh ginger, spring onion greens, and a tangy green chili sauce elevates the flavor profile, making these croquettes irresistible. Pan-fried to perfection, these savory delights offer a satisfying crunch on the outside with a soft, flavorful center. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a great vegetarian option that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Tofu (grated) | 1 cup |
Sweet corn (coarsely ground) | 1/2 cup |
Spring onion greens (sliced) | 2 sprigs |
Green chili sauce | 1 teaspoon |
Ginger (finely shredded) | 1-inch piece |
Cloves (Laung, finely chopped) | 2 cloves |
Chinese 5-spice powder | 3 teaspoons |
Corn flour | 2 tablespoons |
Salt | To taste |
Whole wheat breadcrumbs | For coating |
Oil | For pan-frying |
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions
-
Prepare the Sweet Corn Mixture
Begin by grinding the sweet corn in a blender to form a smooth paste. Transfer this paste into a large mixing bowl. -
Combine Ingredients
Add the grated tofu, sliced spring onion greens, shredded ginger, chopped cloves, Chinese 5-spice powder, and green chili sauce into the corn paste. Season with salt to taste. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. -
Form the Croquettes
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into medium-sized balls. Ensure that the mixture is firm enough to hold its shape. Once shaped, gently coat each ball with whole wheat breadcrumbs, making sure they are completely covered. -
Pan-Fry the Croquettes
Heat a Kuzhi Paniyaram pan or a non-stick frying pan on medium heat. Add a teaspoon of oil into each hole (or a little more if using a regular pan) and carefully place the breadcrumb-coated croquettes into the pan. Cook the croquettes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. -
Serve
Once the croquettes are done, remove them from the pan and drain any excess oil on a paper towel. Serve the Anhui Style 5-Spice Corn Croquettes hot as a party appetizer, perfect for any festive occasion. You can also pair them with Cantonese-style Chow Mein for a delightful meal.
Tips for Perfect Croquettes:
- Texture of the Corn: Make sure to grind the sweet corn coarsely, so you get a nice texture that helps the croquettes hold together. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the corn further, but this may affect the final texture.
- Breadcrumb Coating: If you don’t have whole wheat breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but whole wheat breadcrumbs give an extra crunch and flavor that complement the spices in the croquettes.
- Pan-Frying: If you don’t have a Kuzhi Paniyaram pan, you can use a regular pan. Just make sure to heat the oil properly to get a crispy golden finish on all sides of the croquettes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 7g |
Carbohydrates | 25g |
Fiber | 3g |
Fat | 6g |
Saturated Fat | 1g |
Sodium | 400mg |
Cholesterol | 0mg |
Sugars | 3g |
Why You’ll Love These Croquettes:
- Flavorful: The unique combination of sweet corn, tofu, and the rich flavor of Chinese 5-spice powder creates a deliciously complex taste.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is completely vegetarian, making it a perfect choice for meatless meals or party appetizers.
- Easy and Quick: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, these croquettes come together quickly for an impressive dish.
- Perfect Texture: The crispy exterior and soft interior make these croquettes a satisfying bite that will delight both children and adults alike.
Anhui Style 5-Spice Corn Croquettes are more than just a snack—they’re a savory treat that brings together the best of Chinese cuisine in a way that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a light meal, these croquettes are sure to be a hit!