Smoky Spanish Serrano Ham Croquettes with Manchego Fondue

Name: Smoky Spanish Serrano Ham Croquettes with Manchego Fondue
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: 1 cup Serrano ham; 1 1/2 cups whole milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup Manchego cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon white wine; Pinch of nutmeg; Vegetable oil

A crispy delight with a luxurious cheese sauce

Indulge in these traditional Spanish croquettes filled with smoky Serrano ham, served with a rich Manchego fondue for a comforting and decadent treat.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Croquettes

1 cup Serrano ham

finely diced

1 1/2 cups whole milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Breading

1 cup breadcrumbs

2 large eggs

beaten

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

For the Manchego Fondue

1 cup Manchego cheese

grated

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon white wine

Pinch of nutmeg

For Frying

Vegetable oil

enough for frying

Preparation

Preparing the Croquette Filling

Heat the roux base

Heat butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Create the roux

Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 2 minutes.

Add milk

Gradually add milk, stirring continuously until thickened.

Ensure the bechamel is thick and smooth before adding the ham.

Preparing the Manchego Fondue

Warm cream

In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over low heat.

Melt cheese

Add Manchego cheese, stirring until smooth.

Finish fondue

Stir in white wine and a pinch of nutmeg.

Cooking Process

Shaping the Croquettes

Shape the chilled mixture into small cylinders or ovals.

Breading the Croquettes

Roll in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.

Frying the Croquettes

Fry in hot oil until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side.

Plating & Serving