Partridge and Cheese Croquettes

Croquetas de Perdiz y Queso
Portions:30 Tapas
Preparation Time: 4 hours
Cooking Time:15 minutes
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Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup milk
  • ¼ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • Kosher or sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Generous amount of freshly ground nutmeg
  • 1 partridge or 2 quail boned, skinned, and meat finely chopped
  • ¼ cup finely chopped Serrano Spanish cured mountain ham or prosciutto
  • 2 thin slices mild cheese such as Spanish Tetilla or Fontina, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • Bread crumbs for dredging
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions

  • In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil and unsalted butter over medium heat until the butter melts.
  • Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes until well combined.
  • Gradually stir in the milk and chicken broth (or vegetable broth).
  • Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
  • Continue cooking and stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
  • Add the finely chopped partridge (or quail), Serrano ham, cheese, and parsley.
  • Cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes.
  • Let the mixture cool slightly, stirring occasionally to release steam.
  • Spread the mixture out on a dinner plate and let it cool completely.
  • Refrigerate until firm enough to handle.
  • With floured hands, shape the partridge mixture into ½-inch balls.
  • Place the eggs and bread crumbs in separate shallow bowls.
  • Heat at least ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (or use a deep fryer set at 365°F) until it turns a cube of bread light brown in 60 seconds.
  • Dip each croquette into the beaten eggs, dredge in the bread crumbs, and place in the hot oil.
  • Cook the croquettes, turning several times, until they become golden.
  • Transfer the fried croquettes with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.
  • Serve hot.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

These partridge and cheese croquettes offer a delightful combination of flavors and make for an elegant tapa. Enjoy the rich taste of game meat complemented by the mildness of cheese!

Nutritional Information

Calories: 70 kcal
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Cuisine Spain