Rice Croquettes with Provola and Cooked Ham
Category: Appetizers
Servings: 12 croquettes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Saffron Risotto (leftover) | 400g |
| Smoked Provola Cheese | 100g |
| Cooked Ham | 80g |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Breadcrumbs | As needed |
| Salt | As needed |
| Black Pepper | As needed |
| Peanut Oil (for frying) | As needed |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Rice:
To make the croquettes, start by using leftover risotto, preferably saffron risotto for that rich flavor. If you don’t have any leftovers, you can prepare it using the saffron risotto recipe available. Once your risotto is ready, store it in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap, until it cools down. -
Shape the Croquettes:
Take a handful of the cold risotto, about one tablespoon per croquette, and shape it into an oval ball with your hands. Then, create a small indentation in the center to hold the filling. -
Fill the Croquettes:
For the filling, cut the smoked provola cheese and cooked ham into small cubes. Place a few cubes of ham and cheese into each indentation you’ve made in the rice balls. Once the filling is inside, press the rice mixture firmly to seal the croquette and ensure that the filling stays inside. -
Coat the Croquettes:
Beat the eggs in a bowl, adding a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. In a separate dish, pour enough breadcrumbs to coat the croquettes. Dip each croquette into the egg mixture first, then roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat evenly. -
Fry or Bake the Croquettes:
Heat peanut oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the croquettes in the oil for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the croquettes and drain excess oil on paper towels.Alternatively, for a healthier option, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Arrange the croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake them for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
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Serve:
Once the croquettes are cooked, serve them immediately while hot and enjoy the cheesy, savory filling encased in crispy rice. These Rice Croquettes with Provola and Cooked Ham are perfect as an appetizer or snack for any occasion!
Enjoy your deliciously crispy and cheesy rice croquettes!
