Potato Croquettes I

Potato Croquettes I Recipe from Switzerland - Ingredients and Instructions

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Potato croquettes are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a side or appetizer. These crispy, golden balls of mashed potatoes are filled with cheese and herbs, making them a flavorful treat for any occasion.

History

Potato croquettes have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. Originally from France, croquettes were traditionally made with leftover meat or vegetables mixed with mashed potatoes and fried until crispy. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of fillings and flavors, making it a favorite comfort food around the world.

Ingredients

3 medium baking potatoes, peeled and sliced
0.25 cup (1 oz (28 g)) shredded low-fat swiss or cheddar cheese
0.25 cup nonfat cream cheese product
1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
1 tbsp non-fat margarine
1.5 tsp prepared or dijon mustard
0.25 tsp hot sauce
0.13 tsp salt
1 egg white, lightly beaten
1.75 cup coarsely crushed corn flakes
vegetable cooking spray

How to prepare

Cook the potato in boiling water for 20 minutes, or until it is tender; then drain it.
Transfer the potato to a bowl.
Beat the potato at medium speed until it becomes smooth.
Add the cheese, as well as the next 6 ingredients.
Beat the mixture well.
Divide the mixture into 10 equal portions and shape them into balls.
Dip the balls in egg white and roll them in cereal.
Place the balls on a baking sheet that has been coated with nonstick spray.
Bake them at 400°F (204°C) for 10 – 15 minutes or until they become crisp and golden.

Variations

Try adding bacon or ham to the potato mixture for a meaty twist.
Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly drain the cooked potatoes before mashing them to avoid a soggy texture.

- Be gentle when shaping the croquettes to prevent them from falling apart.

- For extra flavor, try adding different herbs and spices to the potato mixture.

- To make the croquettes extra crispy, you can double coat them in the egg white and cereal mixture before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Potato croquettes can be served as a side dish with a salad or as an appetizer with a dipping sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the croquettes instead of frying them results in a healthier dish without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use regular cheddar cheese instead of low-fat cheddar cheese.

- Substitute regular cream cheese for nonfat cream cheese if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the potato mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the potato croquettes on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Potato croquettes pair well with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover potato croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of potato croquettes contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of potato croquettes contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of potato croquettes contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of potato croquettes contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Potato croquettes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.

Alergens

Potato croquettes contain dairy (cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Potato croquettes are a delicious and satisfying dish that is relatively low in calories and high in essential nutrients like vitamin C and potassium.

Summary

Potato croquettes are a delicious and versatile dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy interior, these golden balls of mashed potatoes are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, the delicious aroma of fried potatoes filled the air, making my mouth water.

Maria had a twinkle in her eye as she handed me a plate of golden-brown potato croquettes. "Try one, Rosa," she said with a smile. I took a bite and was immediately transported to culinary heaven. The crispy exterior gave way to a creamy, flavorful center that melted in my mouth. It was love at first bite.

I begged Maria to teach me how to make the potato croquettes, and she graciously agreed. We spent the afternoon in her kitchen, peeling and boiling potatoes, mixing in butter and seasoning, and shaping the mixture into perfect little cylinders. Maria showed me how to coat the croquettes in breadcrumbs and fry them until they were crispy and golden brown.

As we sat down to enjoy our delicious creation, Maria shared the story of how she learned to make potato croquettes. She told me that the recipe had been passed down through her family for generations, originating from her great-grandmother who had immigrated to America from Italy.

Maria's great-grandmother had brought with her a love of cooking and a treasure trove of family recipes. She had taught Maria's grandmother how to make the potato croquettes, who in turn had passed the recipe down to Maria.

I listened intently, savoring each bite of the crispy croquettes. I was inspired by Maria's connection to her family's culinary heritage and the way she had preserved the recipe through the generations. I knew that I wanted to do the same for my own family.

After that day, I made potato croquettes a regular part of my cooking repertoire. I would often make them for family gatherings and special occasions, delighting my loved ones with the crispy, creamy goodness of the dish.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe to suit my own tastes, adding a pinch of garlic here, a sprinkle of herbs there. But the core of the recipe remains the same, a testament to the generations of women who have lovingly passed it down.

As I stand in my own kitchen now, shaping the potato mixture into perfect little cylinders just as Maria taught me all those years ago, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the culinary traditions that have shaped me.

I am proud to carry on the legacy of my friend Maria and her family, preserving the recipe for potato croquettes for future generations to enjoy. And as I fry up a batch of golden-brown croquettes, I know that I am not just cooking a meal, but creating a connection to my past and the loved ones who have taught me so much about the joys of food and family.