Mozzarella-stuffed croquettes

Prep: 15 mins

Cook: 20 mins

When I was really little I’d always get awestruck in the supermarket by the array of microwavable, just-throw-in-the-oven-then-eat foods on offer in the frozen food aisles. I was only allowed frozen berries, but it was those croquette potato balls I really wanted. Since then, I’ve read the ingredients lists on these things and even ventured to taste them – and I realise now why they were banned on our house! So I make these instead and they are so, so much better.

6 potatoes, leftover mash

200g mozzarella cheese, roughly chopped

30g parmesan cheese, grated,

3 large eggs

110g breadcrumbs

400ml olive oil

Mash potatoes then stir in cheeses, a few pinches, of seas salt and freshly ground black pepper and 1 egg. In a shallow bowl, lightly beat the other 2 eggs with a fork. Pour breadcrumbs into another shallow bowl beside it. Line a baking tray with baking paper.

Form potato mixture into about 24 balls and roll into slightly oblong shapes.

One at a time, dip croquettes into beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then roll in breadcrumbs to coat. Place on baking tray as you make them.

Heat 120ml of oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry croquettes in batches, turning until golden brown on all sides – about 5 minutes per batch. Add and heat a little more of each oil between each batch.

Transfer each batch to paper towels, sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Preparation Time
15 minutes

Cooking Time
20 minutes

Main ingredients
Cheese, Vegetables

Recipe Type
Starters, Side Dish, Snacks, Tapas

Special Info
Vegetarian

Level of Difficulty
Moderately Easy