Crispy Potato Croquettes (Polpette di Patate)
Category: Appetizers | Servings: 30 Croquettes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (peeled and boiled) | 500g |
| Caciocavallo cheese | 100g |
| Breadcrumbs | 80g |
| Grana Padano DOP cheese | 60g |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | q.b. |
| Salt | q.b. |
| Black pepper | q.b. |
| Extra virgin olive oil | q.b. |
Nutritional Information (approx.)
Each serving (1 croquette):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 160mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Potatoes:
Begin by thoroughly washing and peeling your potatoes. In a large pot, place the potatoes and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes or until the potatoes are soft and easily pierced with a fork. Be sure to check the potatoes’ softness as cooking times may vary depending on their size. -
Grate the Caciocavallo Cheese:
While the potatoes are cooking, use a coarse grater to grate the caciocavallo cheese. Set it aside. This cheese will melt beautifully inside the croquettes, adding a deliciously rich flavor. -
Mash the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are fully cooked, drain them and allow them to cool just slightly for easier handling. Peel the skin off and place the potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Using a potato masher or fork, mash the potatoes until smooth. It’s important to do this step while the potatoes are still warm for better texture. -
Combine Ingredients:
To the mashed potatoes, add the grated caciocavallo cheese, Grana Padano cheese, two eggs, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir in the breadcrumbs and finely chopped parsley. Continue mixing until all ingredients are fully incorporated, and the mixture forms a smooth, slightly sticky dough. If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a little more breadcrumbs until the right consistency is achieved for shaping. -
Form the Croquettes:
Once your potato mixture is ready, it’s time to shape the croquettes. Take small portions of the mixture (about 25g each) and roll them into smooth balls between your hands. After forming the ball, gently flatten it with the palms of your hands to create a thick disk-like shape. Continue forming the croquettes until all the mixture is used. -
Fry the Croquettes:
In a large, non-stick frying pan, pour in just enough extra virgin olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan with about a centimeter of oil. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Carefully place the formed croquettes in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp. Turn them gently with a spatula to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. -
Drain and Serve:
Once the croquettes are golden and crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. This will keep them crispy and prevent them from becoming greasy. -
Serve Hot:
Serve your crispy potato croquettes hot, garnished with a little extra chopped parsley if desired. These croquettes are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces, or you can enjoy them as they are – crisp on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside.
Serving Suggestions:
These crispy potato croquettes are perfect as an appetizer or snack for any occasion. Serve them alongside a simple tomato sauce, a zesty aioli, or even a tangy salsa verde for a delightful pairing. They are also fantastic as a side dish to accompany meats, or they can stand on their own as a vegetarian dish, making them versatile enough for any meal.
Tips:
- If you prefer a firmer croquette, you can refrigerate the potato mixture for 30 minutes before shaping the croquettes.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground rice flour.
- Experiment with other types of cheese for variation—mozzarella, provolone, or even cheddar could all bring different flavors to these croquettes.
These golden, crispy potato croquettes are a true Italian classic that will bring warmth and deliciousness to your table. With their savory flavor and irresistible crunch, they’re bound to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a side dish, they’ll certainly leave your guests asking for the recipe. Enjoy this comforting treat, perfect for any occasion!
