Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLa Habana ViejaCroquetas Recipe

Croquetas Recipe

Inspired by La Habana Vieja
Time1h
Serves4

Delicious ham croquettes served with aioli.

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Ingredients

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For the Croquetas

For the Aioli

Method

For the Croquetas

  1. 1

    Prepare the Ham Mixture

    Finely chop the ham into small pieces or pulse in a food processor until finely minced.

  2. 2

    Make the Roux

    In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until you have a smooth paste (roux).

  3. 3

    Add Milk

    Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

  4. 4

    Combine Ingredients

    Stir in the chopped ham, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

  5. 5

    Form the Croquettes

    Once the mixture is cool, shape it into small cylinders or balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  6. 6

    Breading

    Set up a breading station: beat the eggs in one bowl, place breadcrumbs in another. Dip each croquette in the egg, then roll in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.

  7. 7

    Fry the Croquettes

    In a deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Fry the croquettes in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

For the Aioli

  1. 8

    Prepare the Garlic

    Mince the garlic cloves finely or use a garlic press.

  2. 9

    Make the Aioli

    In a mixing bowl, whisk together the garlic, egg yolk, and lemon juice. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until emulsified and smooth. Season with salt to taste.

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