Beef Croquettes
Crispy on the outside with a soft, savory filling of spiced ground beef and potatoes. These Indian-style croquettes are a perfect party appetizer or an evening snack, best served hot with a side of tangy ketchup.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Filling
- b.Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain, peel, and mash them thoroughly in a large bowl. Set aside.
- c.Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- d.Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chillies. Sauté for 1 minute until the raw smell disappears.
- e.Add the ground beef to the pan. Use a spatula to break it up and cook for 5-7 minutes until it's browned and cooked through.
- f.Stir in the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, garam masala, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the mixture becomes quite dry.
- g.Remove the pan from the heat and let the beef mixture cool for at least 10 minutes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Combine and Shape the Croquettes
- b.Add the cooled beef mixture and chopped coriander leaves to the bowl with the mashed potatoes.
- c.Mix everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- d.For best results, cover and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This makes it easier to shape.
- e.Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion between your palms to form a smooth, oval-shaped croquette, about 3 inches long.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Coat the Croquettes
- b.Set up a coating station with three shallow dishes. Place the maida (all-purpose flour) in the first, the beaten egg in the second, and the breadcrumbs in the third.
- c.Take one croquette and gently dredge it in the flour, tapping off any excess.
- d.Next, dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it's completely coated.
- e.Finally, roll the croquette in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to make sure the crumbs adhere evenly. Place the coated croquette on a tray and repeat with the rest.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Fry to Golden Perfection
- b.Heat 2 cups of oil in a deep pan or kadai over medium-high heat to about 175°C (350°F). If you don't have a thermometer, drop a breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle and turn golden in 30 seconds.
- c.Carefully place 3-4 croquettes into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- d.Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are a deep golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- e.Use a slotted spoon to remove the croquettes from the oil and place them on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve
- b.Serve the beef croquettes immediately while they are hot and crispy, accompanied by tomato ketchup, mint chutney, or your favorite dipping sauce.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ensure the beef and potato mixture is completely cool, or even chilled, before shaping. A warm mixture can cause the croquettes to fall apart during frying.
- 2The beef filling must be dry. Any excess moisture will make the croquettes soggy and difficult to shape.
- 3For an extra crispy crust, double-coat the croquettes. After the first breadcrumb layer, dip them back into the egg and then into the breadcrumbs again.
- 4Maintain a consistent oil temperature. If the oil is too cool, the croquettes will absorb excess oil and become greasy. If it's too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is heated through.
- 5Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Idaho potatoes. They result in a fluffier, less watery mash, which is ideal for the filling.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Replace the ground beef with 250g of crumbled paneer, finely chopped mushrooms, or a mixture of boiled and mashed vegetables like carrots, peas, and beans.
Alternative MeatAlternative Meat
This recipe works wonderfully with ground chicken or mutton (lamb). Adjust cooking time for the filling accordingly.
Healthier Option (Baked)Healthier Option (Baked)
For a lower-fat version, arrange the coated croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Spicier KickSpicier Kick
Increase the amount of green chillies or add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper along with the other spices for extra heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Protein
Beef is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids necessary for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body function.
Provides Essential Minerals
This dish contains iron and zinc from the ground beef. Iron is crucial for preventing anemia and transporting oxygen, while zinc supports immune function and wound healing.
Energy Boosting
The combination of carbohydrates from potatoes and protein and fat from beef provides a significant energy boost, making it a satisfying and hearty snack.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of three beef croquettes contains approximately 550-580 calories. This is an estimate and can vary based on the fat content of the beef and the amount of oil absorbed during frying.