Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something crispy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than these delightful Cabbage Croquettes! These golden-brown bites pack a surprising punch of flavor, transforming humble cabbage into a truly irresistible treat. Imagine the satisfying crunch with each bite, the subtle sweetness of the cabbage perfectly balanced by savory spices. They're perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light lunch. Forget complicated recipes and long cooking times; these croquettes are surprisingly simple to prepare.
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients and a straightforward technique to achieve maximum deliciousness. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you'll find this recipe incredibly accessible and rewarding. Ready to learn how to create these crispy, flavorful masterpieces? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Microwave
- Frying pan
- Bowl
- Masher
- Bamboo skewer
- Plastic wrap
Ingredients
- Yam cabbage
- Onion
- Ground pork (or other ground meat)
- Soy sauce
- Mirin
- Sugar
- Dashi stock
- Salt
- Pepper
- Salad oil
- Potatoes (sweet potatoes recommended)
- Bread crumbs
- Flour
- Eggs
- Water
- Frying oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling
- Microwave potatoes until cooked through (8-10 minutes at 600W, adjust time based on potato size).
- Chop cabbage roughly and onion finely.
- Fry ground meat with salt and pepper until 80-90% cooked. Add onion and cabbage; cook until vegetables are about half-cooked and slightly reduced.
- Season the cabbage mixture with mirin, sugar, dashi stock, and soy sauce. Mix well.
- Remove potatoes from microwave, peel while hot, and mash.
- Mix mashed potatoes with the cooked cabbage mixture.
- Cool the croquette filling completely, covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying.
Step 2. Shape and Coat the Croquettes
- Divide the filling into 8 (or 6) portions. Shape each portion into croquettes, squeezing out air to prevent bursting.
- Make the batter by whisking together eggs, water, and flour.
- Lightly coat croquettes in flour, then dip in batter, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
Step 3. Fry the Croquettes
- Heat oil to 170°C. Fry croquettes for about 2-2.5 minutes per side, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Gently flip once the batter has set.
Step 4. Drain and Serve
- Drain croquettes on a wire rack for 3 minutes before serving.
Read more: Chikuwa Isobeage Recipe: Crispy Fish Cake Tempura
Tips
- Use soft, fluffy potatoes for best results.
- Roughly chop cabbage and finely chop onions for optimal texture.
- Cool the filling completely before shaping to prevent bursting.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying; fry in batches if necessary.
- Fry gently and avoid rolling the croquettes too much, especially initially, to prevent the batter from coming off.
Nutrition
- Calories: varies
- Fat: variesg
- Carbs: variesg
- Protein: variesg
FAQs
1. Can I use other vegetables besides cabbage?
Yes! You can experiment with adding finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or even potatoes for added flavor and texture. Just ensure they are cooked to a similar tenderness as the cabbage.
2. How can I make the croquettes crispier?
Ensure the cabbage mixture is well-drained before forming the croquettes. A good coating of breadcrumbs and a hot oil temperature are key to achieving maximum crispiness. Don't overcrowd the pan while frying.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cabbage mixture and form the croquettes a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and fry them just before serving to ensure they remain crispy.
These crispy cabbage croquettes are a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dish. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying snack or side that will impress your family and friends. So, give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!