Description
Savory ground beef croquettes infused with bold garlic and chili flavors, coated in a crispy golden panko crust, perfect as a spicy appetizer or snack.
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
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- 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.
- Add ground beef, red chilies, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spatula, until fully browned, about 7-8 minutes. Stir in parsley, then remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
- Once cooled, shape the beef mixture into small, oval croquettes about 2 inches long.
- Prepare a dredging station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Coat each croquette in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry croquettes in batches for 3-4 minutes each, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as spicy mayo or garlic aioli.
Notes
You can adjust the chili amount to control spice level; removing seeds reduces heat.
For a milder smoky flavor, swap smoked paprika with sweet paprika.
Leftover croquettes can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to keep crust crispy.
Uncooked croquettes can be frozen; thaw before frying.
Baking option: bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway, for a healthier alternative.
Alternative breadcrumbs include regular breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or crushed crackers.
Variations include adding grated cheese inside or using ground chicken or turkey instead of beef.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying (also baking alternative)
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4 croquettes)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
