Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe

 

The Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe is a popular dish from Cuba. It is a delicious and savory treat that is loved by many. The recipe for Cuban Croquetas de Jamon involves a few simple ingredients and a cooking process that results in crispy, golden-brown croquettes filled with flavorful ham.

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To make Cuban Croquetas de Jamon, you will need ingredients like cooked ham, flour, milk, eggs, breadcrumbs, and vegetable oil for frying. The process begins by making a thick bechamel sauce using flour, milk, and ham. The bechamel is then mixed with finely chopped ham to create a creamy filling. This mixture is then shaped into small cylinders and coated in beaten eggs and breadcrumbs before being fried until crispy.

The flavors of Cuban Croquetas de Jamon are rich and savory. The combination of the creamy bechamel sauce and the salty ham creates a delicious taste that is both comforting and satisfying. The crispy exterior adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

Cuban Croquetas de Jamon can be enjoyed as an appetizer or as a main dish. They are often served with dipping sauces like aioli or a tangy tomato sauce. These croquettes can be a great addition to a party or gathering, as they are easy to make in large batches.

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In terms of nutritional benefits, Cuban Croquetas de Jamon provide a good amount of protein from the ham. Protein is an essential nutrient that helps build and repair tissues in the body. However, it is important to note that these croquettes are fried, which means they are higher in fat and calories. Therefore, it is best to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Overall, Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe is a tasty and satisfying dish that is loved by many. Its flavors and versatility make it a popular choice for gatherings or simply as a delicious snack. Just remember to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet to fully appreciate their culinary delights.

How To Make Our Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe

Ingredients (8 Servings)

2 pounds ground ham
7 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
1 1/2 tablespoon finely chopped onion
1 3/4 cup whole milk room temperature
1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour divided
1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
4 tablespoon sofrito
4 teaspoon parsley flakes
4 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
1 3/4 tablespoon dry cooking wine (vino seco)
1 cup milk
4 large eggs room temperature
¼ cup butter
1 3/4 cup bread crumbs (or finely ground saltine crackers)
Vegetable oil for frying
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground ham, room temperature butter, finely chopped onion, and nutmeg. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

a. Start by adding the ground ham to the mixing bowl.
b. Add the room temperature butter to the bowl.
c. Finely chop the onion and add it to the mixture.
d. Sprinkle the nutmeg over the other ingredients.

2. In a saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat until it starts to steam. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour to the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

a. Pour the whole milk into the saucepan.
b. Place the saucepan on the stove over medium heat.
c. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour to the milk, while stirring constantly.
d. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and thickened.

3. Add the thickened milk mixture (bechamel sauce) to the ham mixture in the mixing bowl. Mix well until everything is combined and forms a cohesive mixture.

a. Pour the thickened milk mixture into the mixing bowl with the ham mixture.
b. Use a spatula or your hands to mix the ingredients together thoroughly.

4. Add the sofrito, parsley flakes, chicken bouillon powder, dry cooking wine, salt, and black pepper to the ham mixture. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors.

a. Spoon the sofrito into the mixing bowl.
b. Sprinkle the parsley flakes over the mixture.
c. Add the chicken bouillon powder to the mixture.
d. Pour the dry cooking wine into the bowl.
e. Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the other ingredients.
f. Mix everything together until well combined.

5. Divide the mixture into small portions and shape each portion into a cylindrical croquette shape.

a. Scoop a small portion of the mixture using a spoon.
b. Roll the portion between your hands to form a cylindrical shape.
c. Repeat the process until all the mixture is used.

6. In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each croquette into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.

a. Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl.
b. Use a fork or whisk to beat the eggs until well mixed.
c. Take one croquette and dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it is completely covered.

7. Roll each egg-coated croquette in the remaining 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and then in the bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

a. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour onto a plate or shallow dish.
b. Take the egg-coated croquette and roll it in the flour, coating it lightly.
c. Next, roll the croquette in the bread crumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick.

8. In a deep frying pan or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the croquettes in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

a. Place the deep frying pan or pot on the stove over medium heat.
b. Pour vegetable oil into the pan, enough to submerge the croquettes.
c. Once the oil is hot, carefully add a few croquettes at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
d. Fry the croquettes until they become golden brown and crispy, flipping them occasionally for even cooking.
e. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the cooked croquettes from the oil.
f. Place the fried croquettes on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

9. Serve the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon warm as an appetizer or main dish.

a. Transfer the cooked croquettes to a serving plate.
b. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
c. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as is.

Estimated Prep Time: 30 minutes

Estimated Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Pots, Pan and Cooking Equipment Needed for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe

Mixing bowl
Saucepan
Shallow bowl
Deep frying pan or pot
Slotted spoon or tongs
Plate lined with paper towels

Best Way to Store Leftovers From the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe

a. Allow the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon to cool completely.
b. Place the leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
c. Store in the refrigerator to keep them chilled.
d. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to restore crispiness.
e. Consume within 2-3 days for the best taste and quality.

Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation

Keep the ground ham, butter, and milk at room temperature for easier mixing.
Use a non-stick saucepan for the bechamel sauce to prevent sticking.
Shape the croquettes tightly to maintain their cylindrical shape while frying.
Use a digital thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the right frying temperature.
Fry the croquettes in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Pat the fried croquettes with paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.

Side Dishes and Desserts For the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe

a. White rice and black beans
b. Tostones (fried plantains)
c. Cuban-style avocado salad
d. Yucca fries or yuca con mojo (marinated yuca)

How To Serve the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe

a. Arrange the cooked Cuban Croquetas de Jamon on a serving platter.
b. Garnish with parsley or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
c. Serve the croquettes warm as an appetizer or main dish.
d. Offer dipping sauces such as aioli, tomato sauce, or mustard on the side.
e. Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
f. Enjoy the crispy and flavorful Cuban Croquetas de Jamon with friends and family.

Dietary Substitution For the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe

1. Vegan Options for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe:

a. Ground Ham Substitute with plant-based ground meat or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
b. Unsalted Butter Replace with vegan butter or margarine.
c. Whole Milk Use unsweetened plant-based milk such as almond milk or soy milk.
d. Chicken Bouillon Powder Opt for vegetable bouillon powder or vegetable broth for flavor.
e. Eggs Replace each egg with a vegan egg substitute like flaxseed meal or applesauce.

2. Gluten-Free Options for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe:

a. All-Purpose Flour Use a gluten-free flour blend or alternative flours like rice flour or almond flour.
b. Italian Breadcrumbs Replace with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
c. Dry Cooking Wine (Vino Seco) Ensure the wine used is gluten-free or substitute with gluten-free vegetable broth.
d. Bread Crumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or finely ground gluten-free pretzels.
e. Soy Sauce Choose gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative.

3. Vegetarian Options for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe:

a. Ground Ham Omit the ground ham and increase the amount of finely chopped onion or use vegetarian ham substitute.
b. Chicken Bouillon Powder Use vegetable bouillon powder or vegetable broth for flavor enhancement.
c. Dry Cooking Wine (Vino Seco) Substitute with vegetable broth or non-alcoholic white wine.
d. Eggs Replace each egg with a vegetarian egg substitute like mashed tofu or mashed banana.
e. Italian Breadcrumbs Use vegetarian breadcrumbs made without animal-derived ingredients.

4. Mediterranean Diet Options for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe:

a. Replace vegetable oil for frying with extra virgin olive oil.
b. Add minced garlic to the mixture for additional Mediterranean flavor.
c. Serve the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon with a side of Greek tzatziki sauce or hummus.
d. Garnish with fresh chopped herbs like basil or oregano.
e. Accompany the croquettes with a Greek salad or roasted vegetables.

5. Keto Diet Options for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe:

a. All-Purpose Flour Substitute with almond flour or coconut flour.
b. Italian Breadcrumbs Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.
c. Dry Cooking Wine (Vino Seco) Omit or use a small amount of dry white wine within your daily carb limit.
d. Bread Crumbs Replace with crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.
e. Serve with a keto-friendly dipping sauce like a homemade mayonnaise-based sauce.

6. Heart Healthy Diet Options for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe:

a. Ground Ham Use lean ground ham or choose a lower sodium option.
b. Unsalted Butter Replace with olive oil or avocado oil.
c. Whole Milk Choose low-fat or skim milk.
d. Chicken Bouillon Powder Opt for a reduced-sodium or no-added-salt vegetable bouillon powder.
e. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.

7. Paleo Options for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe:

a. All-Purpose Flour Use almond flour or coconut flour.
b. Italian Breadcrumbs Replace with crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with coconut flakes.
c. Sofrito Make a homemade paleo-friendly sofrito using approved ingredients.
d. Chicken Bouillon Powder Use homemade paleo-friendly chicken broth or bone broth.
e. Bread Crumbs Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with coconut flakes.

8. Low Carb Options for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe:

a. Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour.
b. Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with grated Parmesan cheese instead of Italian breadcrumbs.
c. Opt for a low-carb alternative to the dry cooking wine, such as white vinegar or lemon juice.
d. Substitute bread crumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.
e. Serve with a low-carb dipping sauce or sugar-free ketchup.

9. Whole30 Options for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe:

a. Ground Ham Choose a Whole30 compliant ground ham or omit.
b. Replace unsalted butter with ghee or clarified butter.
c. Whole Milk Use unsweetened coconut milk or almond milk.
d. Chicken Bouillon Powder Make a homemade Whole30 compliant chicken broth or bone broth.
e. Eggs Include eggs if they are compliant with your Whole30 program, otherwise omit.

10. Weight Watchers Options for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe:

a. Ground Ham Use lean ground ham or turkey ham for lower points.
b. Unsalted Butter Substitute with a lower-fat spread or cooking spray.
c. Whole Milk Choose skim or low-fat milk for fewer points.
d. Chicken Bouillon Powder Opt for a reduced-sodium or low-fat chicken bouillon powder.
e. Use reduced-fat or light bread crumbs instead of Italian breadcrumbs.

11. Low Fat Options for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe:

a. Ground Ham Use lean ground ham or turkey ham to reduce fat content.
b. Replace unsalted butter with a low-fat spread or cooking spray.
c. Whole Milk Choose skim or low-fat milk to reduce fat content.
d. Chicken Bouillon Powder Opt for a low-fat or reduced-sodium chicken bouillon powder.
e. Use reduced-fat or light bread crumbs instead of Italian breadcrumbs.

12. Vegetable Variations for the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe:

a. Add finely chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch and flavor.
b. Substitute part of the ground ham with cooked and mashed chickpeas or white beans for added texture and nutrition.
c. Incorporate finely chopped mushrooms for a savory umami taste.
d. Experiment with different fresh herbs such as cilantro, dill, or thyme for varied flavor profiles.
e. Use zucchini or eggplant slices instead of traditional breadcrumbs for a lighter, vegetable-based coating.

Please note that the given substitutions are general suggestions, and individual dietary needs and preferences may vary. It’s always recommended to check labels, choose quality ingredients, and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

FAQ About the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe

Can I make the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe without ham?
Yes, the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe traditionally includes ground ham as the main ingredient. However, you can omit the ham or substitute it with vegetarian or plant-based alternatives, such as plant-based ground meat or textured vegetable protein (TVP), to create a vegan version of the recipe.

Can I use a gluten-free option for the breadcrumbs in the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the Italian breadcrumbs in the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Can I make the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe without eggs?
Yes, if you follow a vegan or egg-free diet, you can substitute each egg in the recipe with a vegan egg substitute, such as flaxseed meal or mashed banana. This will help bind the ingredients together and create the desired texture for the croquettes.

Are there any vegetarian alternatives for the chicken bouillon powder in the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe?
Certainly! Instead of chicken bouillon powder, you can use vegetable bouillon powder or vegetable broth to add flavor to the croquettes while keeping them vegetarian-friendly.

Can I make the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe healthier?
Yes, there are several ways to make the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe healthier. You can use lean ground ham or turkey ham to reduce the fat content, substitute unsalted butter with a low-fat spread or cooking spray, and choose skim or low-fat milk instead of whole milk. Additionally, you can opt for whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed whole grain crackers for added fiber and nutrients. These modifications can help create a healthier version of the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon without compromising the delicious taste.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of ground ham, bechamel sauce, and breadcrumbs. These golden-brown croquettes offer a savory taste that is both comforting and satisfying.

The versatility of this recipe allows for various dietary modifications. It can be adapted to suit different dietary needs, including vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options. By substituting ingredients like ground ham and breadcrumbs with plant-based alternatives or gluten-free options, individuals can still enjoy this delicious treat while adhering to their dietary preferences.

Nutritionally, the Cuban Croquetas de Jamon provide a good amount of protein from the ham, essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. However, it is important to note that these croquettes are fried, which increases their fat and calorie content. Therefore, it is advisable to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

The Cuban Croquetas de Jamon Recipe can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even as a party snack. They pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, and the crispy exterior adds a delightful crunch to each bite. The flavors and textures of these croquettes make them a popular choice among food enthusiasts.