Crispy Potato Korokke (Croquettes): Authentic Japanese Recipe

Crispy on the outside, creamy and comforting on the inside – Potato Korokke are a beloved Japanese street food and home-cooked favorite. These golden-brown croquettes boast a delicate balance of flavors, from the earthy potatoes to the subtle umami notes of the filling. Whether you're a seasoned Japanese cuisine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Potato Korokke offer a delightful culinary experience that's surprisingly easy to master. Their satisfying texture and versatile nature make them perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a light meal.

Imagine the satisfying crunch as you bite into a perfectly formed Korokke, the warm potato filling melting in your mouth. This recipe will guide you through each step, from preparing the creamy potato base to achieving that signature crispy exterior. Let's embark on this culinary journey and create these delicious Japanese treats together!

Tools Needed

Ingredients

  • Potatoes
  • Ground beef
  • Onions
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Flour
  • Egg
  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil
  • Tonkatsu sauce (or ketchup/Worcestershire)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Potato and Meat Filling

  • Mash cooked potatoes. Peel, cut, and boil potatoes until soft, then mash after draining.
  • Cook ground beef and onions. Heat oil in a pan, add chopped onions, then ground beef. Cook until browned, seasoning with salt and pepper. Transfer to a bowl.
  • Combine potato and meat mixture. Add mashed potatoes to the bowl with the beef mixture and mix well. You can add spices like curry powder or nutmeg if desired.
  • Chill the mixture. Refrigerate for 1 hour to make it easier to handle.
Mash cooked potatoes. Peel, cut, and boil potatoes until soft, then mash after draining.Cook ground beef and onions. Heat oil in a pan, add chopped onions, then ground beef. Cook until browned, seasoning with salt and pepper. Transfer to a bowl.Combine potato and meat mixture. Add mashed potatoes to the bowl with the beef mixture and mix well. You can add spices like curry powder or nutmeg if desired.Chill the mixture. Refrigerate for 1 hour to make it easier to handle.
Prepare the Potato and Meat Filling

Step 2. Shape and Bread the Korokke

  • Shape the korokke. Form the potato mixture into oval shapes (about 8 regular size, or smaller for finger food).
  • flour, egg, then panko breadcrumbs. Coat each korokke thoroughly.
Shape the korokke. Form the potato mixture into oval shapes (about 8 regular size, or smaller for finger food).Bread the korokke. Set up a breading station: flour, egg, then panko breadcrumbs. Coat each korokke thoroughly.
Shape and Bread the Korokke

Step 3. Deep Fry the Korokke

  • Deep fry the korokke. Heat oil to 350-370°F (175-190°C). Fry korokke in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Deep fry the korokke. Heat oil to 350-370°F (175-190°C). Fry korokke in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Deep Fry the Korokke

Step 4. Serve

  • Drain and serve. Remove from oil, drain on paper towels, and serve with tonkatsu sauce (or ketchup/Worcestershire sauce).
Drain and serve. Remove from oil, drain on paper towels, and serve with tonkatsu sauce (or ketchup/Worcestershire sauce).
Serve

Read more: Chikuwa Isobeage Recipe: Crispy Fish Cake Tempura

Tips

  • For easier handling, chill the potato mixture for an hour before shaping.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan when frying. Cook in batches to ensure even browning.
  • Panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crispier texture.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 250-350
  • Fat: 15-25gg
  • Carbs: 25-35gg
  • Protein: 8-12gg

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for the Korokke filling?

While you can, fresh mashed potatoes will result in a better texture and flavor. Leftover mashed potatoes may be drier and less creamy.

2. What's the best way to get the Korokke extra crispy?

Ensure the potatoes are thoroughly dried before breading. Use a good quality panko breadcrumb and fry at the right temperature (medium-high) for a crisp exterior.

3. How do I store leftover Korokke?

Store cooled Korokke in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or air fryer for best results.


With a little practice, you'll be mastering the art of making these delightful Japanese treats in no time. These crispy Potato Korokke are a delicious addition to any meal, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and creamy interior of your homemade Korokke!