Ham croquettes are a delicious and popular snack that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. These crispy and flavorful treats are perfect for parties, picnics, or just as a quick and tasty snack. While traditionally deep-fried, you can also make these delectable ham croquettes in an air fryer. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of cooking ham croquettes in an air fryer to achieve perfectly crunchy snacks that are not only tasty but also healthy.
Ingredients for Ham Croquettes
To make ham croquettes in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
1. 2 cups of cooked ham, finely chopped
2. 3 tablespoons of butter
3. 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
4. 1 cup of milk
5. 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
6. 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
7. 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
8. 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
9. 2 cups of bread crumbs
10. 2 large eggs, beaten
11. Cooking spray
Instructions for Making Ham Croquettes
Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the process of making these delicious ham croquettes in an air fryer.
Step 1: Prepare the Ham Mixture
Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour to the pan and whisk it continuously for about a minute until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
Step 2: Add Flavor to the Ham Mixture
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the finely chopped ham, grated Parmesan cheese, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Keep stirring until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is thick enough to hold its shape. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool down for a few minutes.
Step 3: Shape the Croquettes
Now that the ham mixture has cooled down, it’s time to shape the croquettes. Take a spoonful of the mixture and roll it into a small oval-shaped ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up, making sure to keep the size of the croquettes consistent for even cooking.
Step 4: Coat the Croquettes
In a shallow bowl, place the bread crumbs. Take each ham croquette and dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, roll the croquette in the bread crumbs until it is completely covered. Repeat this process for all the croquettes, placing them on a plate or tray once coated.
Step 5: Air Fry the Croquettes
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated ham croquettes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook the croquettes in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Step 6: Cook and Enjoy
Air fry the ham croquettes for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on them to prevent them from burning. Once the croquettes are golden brown and crispy, carefully remove them from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula.
Tips for Perfectly Crunchy Ham Croquettes
To ensure your ham croquettes turn out perfectly crunchy, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
1. Use cooked ham that is not overly salty as it can overpower the flavors.
2. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the ham mixture in a food processor before shaping the croquettes.
3. Experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket as it can affect the cooking process and result in unevenly cooked croquettes.
5. Feel free to customize the shape and size of your croquettes. You can make them smaller for bite-sized snacks or larger for a more substantial meal.
Conclusion
Cooking ham croquettes in an air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy this delicious snack without the guilt of deep-frying. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can easily make perfectly crunchy and flavorful ham croquettes that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and treat yourself to these delectable and healthier snacks that are sure to be a hit!