Spicy Garlic Beef Croquettes with Crispy Golden Crust
Spicy Garlic Beef Croquettes with Crispy Golden Crust
Introduction
Spicy Garlic Beef Croquettes are a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor and texture to your table. These crispy bites are made with seasoned ground beef, fresh garlic, and spices, all coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust. They are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a savory dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of spices adds a delightful kick to the rich flavor of the beef, making each bite exciting. Plus, the golden, crispy crust provides a satisfying crunch. It’s also a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and can easily be modified to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a fun family dinner, these croquettes will be a hit.
How to Make Spicy Garlic Beef Croquettes
Making Spicy Garlic Beef Croquettes is simple and fun! You can follow these easy steps to whip up a batch.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup mashed potatoes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- Oil for deep frying
Directions:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion and minced garlic until they are fragrant and the onions are translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet along with chili flakes, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Stir and cook until the beef is browned.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and mashed potatoes. Let the mixture cool.
- Once cooled, shape the beef mixture into oval-shaped croquettes.
- Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs.
- Roll each croquette in flour, dip it in egg, then coat it with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the croquettes in batches until they are golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or garlic aioli.
How to Serve Spicy Garlic Beef Croquettes
These croquettes are best served warm, right out of the fryer. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce, like garlic aioli or a spicy ketchup. They also make a great addition to a party platter or can be served alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the crispy texture and savory flavor at your next gathering!
How to Store Spicy Garlic Beef Croquettes
If you have leftover croquettes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which will help to regain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can use the air fryer to warm them up.
Tips to Make Spicy Garlic Beef Croquettes
- For extra spice, feel free to add more chili flakes or even some hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to get that perfect crispy crust.
- You can prepare the beef mixture a day ahead, shape the croquettes, and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them.
Variation
You can easily make these croquettes vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas, and using vegan mashed potatoes. The spices can be adjusted to your taste, creating a completely different flavor profile!
FAQs
1. Can I bake the croquettes instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them! Place formed croquettes on a baking sheet, spray with cooking oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
2. How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles and turns golden within seconds, the oil is ready for frying.
3. Can I freeze the uncooked croquettes?
Absolutely! Freeze the shaped croquettes on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry or bake them from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy!
Spicy Garlic Beef Croquettes
Ingredients
For the filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes Adjust for spice preference
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup mashed potatoes Can use leftover mashed potatoes
For the coating and frying
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- oil for deep frying
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion and minced garlic until they are fragrant and the onions are translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet along with chili flakes, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Stir and cook until the beef is browned.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and mashed potatoes. Let the mixture cool.
- Once cooled, shape the beef mixture into oval-shaped croquettes.
Breading
- Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs.
- Roll each croquette in flour, dip it in egg, then coat it with breadcrumbs.
Frying
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the croquettes in batches until they are golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels.
