Discover how to make Croquetas de Jamón, a classic Spanish favorite! These ham croquettes feature a perfectly crispy exterior and a rich, creamy interior. This easy-to-follow recipe guides you through making these delightful snacks from scratch, perfect for appetizers, tapas, or a tasty treat. Learn the secrets to achieving the ideal texture and flavor, and enjoy a homemade version of this beloved dish.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup ham, finely chopped

- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 2 cups whole milk

- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1 cup breadcrumbs

- 2 large eggs

- Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

Prepare the Base: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional 2 minutes, forming a roux.

Make the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. Season with nutmeg, pepper, and salt.

Add Ham: Stir in the finely chopped ham. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a bowl. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Shape the Croquettes: Once chilled, scoop the mixture and shape it into small cylinders or balls. 

Bread the Croquettes: Prepare a breading station with two shallow bowls. Place the breadcrumbs in one bowl and beat the eggs in the other. Dip each croquette into the egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.

Fry the Croquettes: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the croquettes in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Serve: Serve the croquettes warm with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as they are. 

Enjoy your homemade Croquetas de Jamón!

Nutritional Value:

Ham:

 - Protein: 20-22 grams per 100 grams

 - Fat: 10-15 grams per 100 grams

 - Calories: 150-200 kcal per 100 grams

Benefits: Ham is a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. It also provides B vitamins, including B12, which supports nerve function and red blood cell formation.

Unsalted Butter:

 - Fat: 81 grams per 100 grams (including saturated fats)

 - Calories: 717 kcal per 100 grams

 - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, D, E, and K

Benefits: Butter provides energy and helps in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). However, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high saturated fat content.

Onion:

 - Calories: 40 kcal per 100 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 9 grams per 100 grams

 - Fiber: 1.7 grams per 100 grams

Benefits: Onions are rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds that can help reduce inflammation and support heart health. They also provide vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.

All-Purpose Flour:

 - Carbohydrates: 76 grams per 100 grams

 - Protein: 10 grams per 100 grams

 - Calories: 364 kcal per 100 grams

Benefits: Flour provides energy through carbohydrates and protein. Whole wheat flour offers additional nutrients like fiber and B vitamins compared to refined flour.

Whole Milk:

 - Calories: 61 kcal per 100 ml

 - Protein: 3.2 grams per 100 ml

 - Fat: 3.3 grams per 100 ml

 - Calcium: 120 mg per 100 ml

Benefits: Milk is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamins D and B12. It supports bone health and helps with muscle function.

Nutmeg:

 - Calories: 525 kcal per 100 grams

 - Protein: 5 grams per 100 grams

 - Fat: 36 grams per 100 grams

Benefits: Nutmeg has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help with digestive issues and improve sleep quality.

Black Pepper:

 - Calories: 255 kcal per 100 grams

 - Protein: 10 grams per 100 grams

 - Fiber: 26 grams per 100 grams

Benefits: Black pepper has antioxidant properties and can aid digestion. It also enhances the bioavailability of other nutrients.

Salt:

 - Sodium: 38,000 mg per 100 grams

Benefits: Salt is essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. However, excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as hypertension.

Breadcrumbs:

 - Carbohydrates: 60-70 grams per 100 grams

 - Protein: 7-10 grams per 100 grams

 - Calories: 300-350 kcal per 100 grams

Benefits: Breadcrumbs provide energy and some protein. They are often used in coatings for added crunch and texture.

Eggs:

 - Calories: 68 kcal per large egg

 - Protein: 6 grams per large egg

 - Fat: 5 grams per large egg

 - Cholesterol: 186 mg per large egg

Benefits: Eggs are a high-quality protein source and provide essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D, choline, and antioxidants.

Vegetable Oil:

 - Calories: 884 kcal per 100 grams

 - Fat: 100 grams per 100 grams (mostly unsaturated fats)

Benefits: Vegetable oil provides essential fatty acids and vitamin E. It is used in frying to achieve a crispy texture but should be used in moderation due to its high-calorie content.

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish, each contributing to the overall nutritional profile and taste of the Croquetas de Jamón.