Description
These Spicy Garlic Beef Croquettes feature a flavorful ground beef filling infused with garlic, red chilies, smoked paprika, and cumin, all encased in a crispy golden breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a tasty appetizer or snack, these croquettes offer a delightful combination of spicy, savory, and aromatic flavors with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 fresh red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Breading and Frying
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef, red chilies, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook while breaking the meat apart with a spatula until fully browned, about 7-8 minutes. Stir in chopped parsley, then remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
- Shape Croquettes: Once the beef mixture has cooled enough to handle, shape it into small, oval croquettes approximately 2 inches long each.
- Prepare Dredging Station: Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Bread Croquettes: Coat each croquette first in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
- Fry Croquettes: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the croquettes in batches for 3-4 minutes each or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the croquettes hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as spicy mayo or garlic aioli.
Notes
- You can adjust the number of red chilies depending on your spice preference.
- Panko breadcrumbs are preferred for extra crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute.
- Make sure the beef mixture is completely cooled before shaping to ensure croquettes hold together.
- Maintain oil temperature around 350°F to prevent the croquettes from absorbing excess oil or burning.
- These croquettes can be made ahead and frozen before frying; fry directly from frozen for best results.
