Croquettes with spinach, cheese and nutmeg
These vegetarian croquettes combine spinach, cheese, and nutmeg in a creamy béchamel base for a light yet comforting Spanish-inspired dish. Crisp on the outside, soft within, they’re perfect for tapas spreads or meat-free dinners. Each bite balances freshness, warmth, and that signature croquette crunch beautifully.
Ingredients
- 60 g butter unsalted
- 70 g plain flour
- 650 ml whole milk warmed
- 200 g spinach cooked, finely chopped and drained
- 60 g manchego or cheddar, grated
- ½ tsp Ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp Sea Salt
- ½ tsp white pepper
- 2 eggs large, beaten
- 120 g breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying light olive or sunflower
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a pan over low heat, then stir in the flour until smooth. Cook for a minute, whisking constantly, before adding the warm milk gradually until thickened.
- Add the spinach, grated cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper, stirring until the mixture is glossy and evenly combined.
- Spread the mixture into a shallow dish, drizzle with olive oil to prevent a skin forming, and leave to cool completely. Chill for at least four hours or overnight until firm.
- Shape into ovals or balls, coat in flour, dip in beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs. Chill again before frying.
- Heat oil to 180°C and fry for two to three minutes until golden brown. Drain on kitchen paper and serve warm.
Notes
If you’re using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Excess moisture makes the mixture too soft to handle. For fresh spinach, blanch quickly in boiling water, drain, and chop finely.
The cheese you choose sets the tone: manchego gives a nutty depth, cheddar makes them punchier, and mozzarella adds a gentle stretch. I always use whole milk for béchamel—it gives a creamier consistency without needing extra butter.
Nutrition
Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 9gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 330mgPotassium: 170mgFiber: 1.3gSugar: 1.6gVitamin A: 900IUCalcium: 100mgIron: 1.1mg
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