Croquetas de Jamón

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Стъпка по стъпка

1. 1

   Melt the unsalted butter in a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat.

   Около 2 мин

2. 2

   Add the finely diced cured ham to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly crisp.

   Около 3 мин

3. 3

   Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir continuously for 2 minutes to create a roux, cooking out the raw flour taste.

   Около 2 мин

4. 4

   Gradually whisk in the warm whole milk, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form.

   Около 5 мин

   Бележка на готвача: Adding warm milk helps prevent lumps.

5. 5

   Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the béchamel sauce thickens considerably and pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 5-7 minutes.

   Около 7 мин

   Бележка на готвача: The mixture should be very thick, almost like a dough.

6. 6

   Stir in the grated nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

   Около 1 мин

   Бележка на готвача: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

7. 7

   Transfer the croquette mixture to a shallow dish, cover with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled and firm.

   Около 2 ч

   Бележка на готвача: Chilling is crucial for easy shaping.

8. 8

   Once chilled, prepare a breading station: place the fine breadcrumbs in one shallow dish and the beaten egg in another.

   Около 2 мин

9. 9

   Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and gently shape it into an oval or cylindrical croquette.

   Около 10 мин

   Бележка на готвача: Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking.

10. 10

    Dip each croquette first into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumbs, ensuring it is fully coated.

    Около 5 мин

    Бележка на готвача: Press the breadcrumbs gently to adhere well.

11. 11

    Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to 170-175°C (340-350°F).

    Около 5 мин

    Бележка на готвача: Use a thermometer for accurate oil temperature.

12. 12

    Fry the croquettes in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.

    Около 10 мин

    Бележка на готвача: Do not overcrowd the pot, as this will lower the oil temperature.

13. 13

    Remove the fried croquettes with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

14. 14

    Serve immediately while hot.