Croquetas de pescado
Croquetas de Pescado Recipe from Spain
Introduction
Croquetas de pescado, or fish croquettes, are a popular Spanish dish that combines flaky fish with a creamy, flavorful filling. These crispy, golden-brown croquettes are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course.
History
Croquetas de pescado have been a staple in Spanish cuisine for centuries. Originally created as a way to use up leftover fish, these croquettes have evolved into a beloved dish enjoyed by people all over the world.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- If using salt cod, simmer water for 5 minutes. Drain and cool. Flake the fish. For smoked fish, chop or flake and set aside.
- Mince the onion and garlic. Sauté until soft in some oil. Add the butter in chunks and melt. Sprinkle in the flour while mixing to form a paste. Cook for a few minutes, until brown if possible.
- Pour the milk in 0.5 cup increments, whisking until smooth. Increase the heat slightly if the milk is cold. Add the spices and whisk until the mixture thickens to a consistency similar to brownie batter.
- Add the fish and mix well. Set aside.
- Using two spoons, shape the mixture into egg or rugby ball shapes. Lightly coat with flour, dip in beaten egg, and dredge in bread crumbs. Set aside. Refrigerate until ready to fry.
- Fry the fish cakes in shallow oil over medium-high heat. Avoid overcrowding the pan if the cakes have been refrigerated, as the cold temperature will lower the oil's heat.
Variations
- Add chopped herbs such as dill or parsley to the filling for added flavor.
- Use different types of fish such as salmon or shrimp for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Make vegetarian croquetas by substituting the fish with mashed chickpeas or lentils.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the flour and butter mixture until it is a golden brown color to ensure a rich, nutty flavor in the filling.
- Use a combination of smoked and fresh fish for a more complex flavor profile.
- Refrigerate the shaped croquettes before frying to help them hold their shape and prevent them from falling apart in the oil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve croquetas de pescado hot with a side of aioli or tartar sauce for dipping. They also pair well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to cook the flour and butter mixture until it is a golden brown color to ensure a rich, nutty flavor in the filling.
- Use a combination of smoked and fresh fish for a more complex flavor profile.
- Refrigerate the shaped croquettes before frying to help them hold their shape and prevent them from falling apart in the oil.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
- Substitute almond milk for dairy milk for a dairy-free option.
- Use vegetable oil for frying instead of olive oil for a lighter flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the filling for the croquetas de pescado ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to shape and fry the croquettes. This makes them a great option for entertaining or meal prep.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the croquetas de pescado on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. You can also serve them in individual serving dishes for a more elegant touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Croquetas de pescado pair well with a crisp white wine such as Albariño or a light lager beer. They also go well with a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon for a refreshing drink option.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover croquetas de pescado in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of croquetas de pescado contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of croquetas de pescado contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of croquetas de pescado contains approximately 12 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of croquetas de pescado contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Croquetas de pescado are a good source of vitamin D, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Alergens
Croquetas de pescado contain fish, dairy, and gluten.
Summary
Croquetas de pescado are a delicious and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for a meal or snack.
Summary
Croquetas de pescado are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, flavorful filling, these fish croquettes are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through my collection of cookbooks, looking for inspiration for that night's dinner. As I flipped through the pages, a faded, yellowed piece of paper fell out from between the pages of one of my oldest cookbooks. Curious, I picked it up and unfolded it with trembling hands.
To my surprise, it was a handwritten recipe for Croquetas de pescado, a dish I had never heard of before. The paper was worn and stained, a testament to the countless times it had been used. The handwriting was elegant and flowing, with meticulous instructions and detailed notes scrawled along the margins. It was clear that whoever had written this recipe was a master in the kitchen.
I sat down at my kitchen table and read through the recipe, my mouth watering at the thought of crispy, golden fish croquettes. The ingredients were simple – white fish, breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, garlic, and a few other pantry staples. But the technique was intricate and precise, with careful instructions on how to shape the croquettes and fry them to perfection.
As I read through the recipe, memories flooded back to me of the countless hours I had spent in the kitchen with my own grandmother, watching her cook with a grace and skill that seemed almost magical. She had taught me everything I knew about cooking, passing down recipes and techniques that had been in our family for generations.
I remembered the first time she had shown me how to make her famous meatballs, patiently guiding my hands as I shaped the mixture into perfect spheres. I remembered the smell of garlic and onions sizzling in a pan, the sound of the wooden spoon scraping against the bottom of a pot, the taste of a perfectly seasoned sauce simmering on the stove.
And now, here I was, holding a recipe that seemed to have been plucked straight from my grandmother's kitchen. I could almost hear her voice in my ear, guiding me through each step with her gentle encouragement.
With a sense of excitement and determination, I set out to make the Croquetas de pescado. I gathered the ingredients and followed the instructions meticulously, taking my time to ensure that each croquette was shaped just right. The smell of fish and garlic filled my kitchen, mingling with the warm scent of frying breadcrumbs.
Finally, the croquetas were done – crispy and golden brown, with a tender, flaky interior. I couldn't wait to taste them, to see if they lived up to the memories of my grandmother's cooking.
I took a bite, and a wave of nostalgia washed over me. The croquetas were perfect – crunchy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside. The taste of fish and garlic danced on my tongue, bringing back memories of lazy summer afternoons spent in my grandmother's kitchen.
As I savored each bite, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the gift of cooking that my grandmother had given me. Her recipes were more than just instructions – they were a connection to my past, a way to keep her memory alive in my heart.
And so, as I finished the last croqueta, I made a promise to myself to pass down this recipe – and the stories that came with it – to the next generation. Because some things are too precious to keep to yourself, and the joy of cooking is meant to be shared with those you love.
Categories
| Fish Recipes | Fried Recipes | Spanish Recipes |