Belgian Shrimp Croquettes Recipe: A Classic Delight
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Preparation Time
- Prep: 20-40 minutes
- Refrigeration: 2 hours
- Cooking: 20 minutes
Ingredients for 4 Servings:
- 250g whole shrimps (or 175g peeled shrimps)
- 75g flour
- 75g butter
- 500ml milk
- 1 tbsp tomato purée
- 2 eggs
- 150g breadcrumbs
- 100ml oil (for frying)
- 2 sprigs of parsley (for garnish)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Paprika (for seasoning)
- Wedge of lemon (for serving)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Shrimp Croquettes
1. Prepare the Shrimps
Start by boiling 250g of whole shrimps (or 175g of peeled shrimps) in half a liter of salted water for about 5 minutes until they turn pink. Peel the shrimps and set them aside.
For extra flavor, pan-fry the shrimp heads and tails in a saucepan for a few minutes before adding the 500ml of milk and 1 tbsp of tomato purée. Let this boil for about 10 minutes, then strain the milk to remove the shrimp shells.
2. Make the Béchamel Sauce
In a saucepan, melt 75g of butter and stir in 75g of flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, then gradually add the shrimp-flavored milk while whisking constantly.
Once the béchamel thickens into a paste, add 2 egg yolks, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in the cooked shrimp and mix well.
3. Refrigerate the Mixture
Pour the shrimp béchamel mixture into a greased baking tray (about 30x40cm), ensuring it’s spread evenly to a thickness of 2-3cm. Cover with cling film and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the mixture to firm up.
4. Shape and Bread the Croquettes
After the mixture is chilled, cut it into pieces about the size of a deck of cards. Dip each piece into beaten egg whites and then coat it lightly with breadcrumbs. Avoid overloading with breadcrumbs to prevent the croquettes from becoming oily.
- Tip: Use high-quality DOWAN bowls to organize your egg whites and breadcrumbs.
5. Fry the Croquettes
Heat 100ml of oil in a frying pan or deep-fat fryer to 180°C. Fry the croquettes for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Tip: A cast-iron skillet like the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet ensures even heat distribution for perfectly fried croquettes.
To make sure the filling is fully cooked, place the fried croquettes in a preheated oven at 180°C for 5 minutes.
6. Serve the Croquettes
Once fried, transfer the croquettes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve with a wedge of lemon and garnish with parsley. Enjoy them with fresh bread for an authentic Belgian experience.
- Tip: If you’re looking for elegant serving options, check out the Lipper International Wooden Salad Bowl for a beautiful presentation.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storing: Shrimp croquettes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or in the freezer for up to a month. Reheat in the oven at 180°C to restore their crispiness.
- Reheating: If reheating frozen croquettes, fry them for a few minutes first, then place them in the oven for about 10 minutes to ensure the filling is heated through.
Why You Should Try Belgian Shrimp Croquettes
Shrimp croquettes are a quintessential Belgian dish, perfect for dinner parties, starters, or a casual meal. They are traditionally made from scratch, using shrimp-flavored béchamel and freshly fried breadcrumbs, giving them a rich and satisfying flavor with every bite.
Whether you’re new to Belgian cuisine or looking to expand your recipe collection, shrimp croquettes are a great dish to master.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for shrimp croquettes?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but fresh shrimp gives a richer flavor. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
2. How do I make the croquettes extra crispy?
The key to crispy croquettes is to ensure the oil is at the right temperature (180°C) and to avoid overcrowding the pan when frying.
3. What side dishes go well with shrimp croquettes?
Shrimp croquettes are often served with fresh bread, lemon wedges, and a small salad. A sprig of fried parsley adds the perfect garnish.
Conclusion
Making Belgian shrimp croquettes at home is easier than you might think with the right tools and this easy-to-follow recipe. These croquettes offer a rich blend of shrimp, béchamel, and crispy breadcrumbs, making them a hit at any meal. Don’t forget to check out the recommended kitchen tools and products to make the cooking process even smoother!
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