Cheesy Ham Croquettes

🧀🥓 Cheesy Ham Croquettes (Crispy Cheese & Ham Sticks)
Introduction
These crispy croquettes are golden on the outside and soft, cheesy, and savory on the inside. Filled with diced Ham and melted Cheese, they make a perfect snack, appetizer, or party food.
Ingredients
Croquette Mixture
2 cups milk
4 tbsp butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup diced Ham
1 cup diced Cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp Nutmeg (optional)
For Coating
2 eggs, beaten
1½ cups Breadcrumbs
½ cup flour
For Frying
Vegetable oil for deep frying
Instructions

1. Make the Dough Base
   In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
2. Add Milk
   Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly until the mixture becomes thick and smooth.
3. Season
   Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir well.
4. Add Fillings
   Mix in the diced ham and cheese until evenly distributed.
5. Chill the Mixture
   Transfer the mixture to a dish, cover with plastic wrap touching the surface, and refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.
6. Shape the Croquettes
   Take small portions and shape them into cylinders or sticks.
7. Bread the Croquettes
   Roll each piece in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
8. Fry
   Heat oil to 175°C (350°F). Fry croquettes in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
9. Drain
   Place on paper towels to remove excess oil.
   Tips for Perfect Croquettes
   Chill the mixture well so it’s easier to shape.
   Double-coat with egg and breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
   Keep oil temperature steady to avoid soggy croquettes.
   Serving Suggestions
   Serve hot with:
   Garlic mayonnaise
   Ketchup
   Spicy aioli
   Fresh salad
   Approximate Nutrition (per croquette)
   Calories: 120
   Protein: 5 g
   Carbohydrates: 10 g
   Fat: 7 g