Chef Bihi Appenzeller® Extra Cheese Croquettes
Who hasn’t enjoyed delicious cheese croquettes made by a loved one? Here’s a version using one of my favorite Swiss cheeses, Appenzeller® Extra. It’s time to indulge in the creamy, rich flavors and crispy texture of these delightful bites. Are you ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible recipe?
Recipe Information
- Servings: Approximately 4 servings
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours and 40 minutes (including chilling time)
- Difficulty: Medium
Ingredients
- Base:
- 50 g Butter
- 50 g All-purpose flour
- ½ liter Milk
- 2 Pinches of salt
- Nutmeg (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 200 g Appenzeller® Extra cheese, grated
- 2 Egg yolks (keep the whites for coating)
- For the coating:
- Egg white
- Flour
- Breadcrumbs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Start by making a béchamel: Melt the butter in a saucepan, then add the flour. Cook until it smells like a cookie.
- Gradually add the milk while continuously stirring to avoid lumps.
- Once the milk is fully incorporated, turn off the heat and mix in the grated Appenzeller® Extra cheese.
- Stir well and adjust seasoning with salt, ground black pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg.
- Transfer the mixture into a rectangular dish, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it against the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate for 6 hours.
- After chilling, cut the mixture into squares.
- Prepare for frying: Pass each piece through flour, dip it in egg white, and then coat with breadcrumbs.
- In a deep fryer, heat oil to 180°C (356°F). Fry the croquettes for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Recipe Tips
- For an extra crunch, consider adding some grated Parmesan to the breadcrumbs.
- Optional: Spice things up by adding a hint of cayenne pepper to the béchamel for a little kick.
Nutritional Information
Approximately 250 calories per serving.
FAQ
- Can I make these croquettes in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the béchamel and shape them in advance. Just coat and fry them before serving.
- What can I serve with these croquettes?
- They pair well with a simple green salad or can be served as an appetizer or snack.
- Can I use a different cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute with any good melting cheese, but the flavor will vary.
- How long do the croquettes keep after frying?
- They are best served immediately but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Can I bake them instead of frying?
- Yes, for a healthier option, you can bake them at 180°C (356°F) until golden, but they won’t be as crispy.
