Cacio e Pepe Croquettes – A Flavorful Italian Appetizer
If you’re craving a unique twist on the classic Italian cacio e pepe dish, these crispy croquettes are an absolute must-try. The perfect balance of creamy mashed potatoes, rich Pecorino Romano, and aromatic black and white pepper creates a delicious bite-sized snack that will impress any guest. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to indulge in something savory, these croquettes make for the perfect appetizer!
Category: Appetizer
Serves: 20 pieces
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red potatoes (washed) | 1 kg |
| Pecorino Romano (grated) | 100 g |
| Black peppercorns (whole) | 2 |
| White peppercorns (whole) | 2 |
| Eggs | 4 |
| Breadcrumbs | 100 g |
| Seed oil (for frying) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Instructions
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Boil the Potatoes: Start by thoroughly washing the red potatoes. Place them in a saucepan with cold water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until soft and easily pierced with a fork (about 20-25 minutes). Drain and let them cool slightly.
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Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes have cooled a little, peel them and mash them until smooth. You can use a potato masher or a fork for this step.
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Grate the Pecorino: While the potatoes cool, grate the Pecorino Romano cheese finely to ensure it blends well with the mashed potatoes.
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Crack the Eggs: Crack one egg into a small bowl for the egg wash. Beat lightly. In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
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Make the Croquette Mixture: Add the grated Pecorino Romano, whole black and white peppercorns (pounded lightly with a mortar and pestle), and 3 eggs to the mashed potatoes. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper, then use your hands to knead the ingredients together. Keep mixing until you have a smooth, homogeneous mixture.
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Shape the Croquettes: Wet your hands with a little water to make shaping easier. Take a small portion of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball, then flatten it slightly into an oval shape. Repeat until all of the mixture is shaped.
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Coat the Croquettes: Dip each croquette into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully covered. Then, roll the croquette in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. For an extra crispy crust, dip the croquettes in the egg and breadcrumbs again.
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Fry the Croquettes: Heat seed oil (like sunflower or vegetable oil) in a pan or deep fryer to around 170°C (340°F). Once the oil reaches the right temperature, carefully fry the croquettes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remember to flip them gently to ensure even frying.
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Drain and Serve: Once fried, use a slotted spoon to transfer the croquettes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy potatoes and sharp, peppery Pecorino in each bite!
Cooking Tips:
- Potato Variety: Red potatoes are ideal for croquettes because they have a smooth, waxy texture that holds together well when mashed. However, you can substitute them with Yukon Golds for a creamier result.
- Extra Crispy Coating: If you like your croquettes extra crispy, try double-dipping in the egg and breadcrumbs before frying.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of black and white pepper to your taste. For a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the croquettes ahead of time and freeze them before frying. Simply shape and coat them, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a container or bag for storage. When ready to serve, fry straight from the freezer for a crispy, hot snack.
These Cacio e Pepe Croquettes are a perfect appetizer to add a touch of Italian flavor to your gatherings. The richness of Pecorino Romano, the zing of freshly ground pepper, and the crispy, golden exterior make for an unforgettable bite. Whether served at a party or as a snack for yourself, these croquettes are sure to impress!
