Crispy Potato Croquettes with Mushrooms and Hazelnuts: A Gourmet Comfort Food

by

Elevate your comfort food game with these luxurious potato croquettes that blend the creamy richness of mashed potatoes with the earthy depth of mushrooms and the delightful crunch of toasted hazelnuts. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant dish that’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or vegetarian main course. Prepare to impress your guests with these golden, crispy delights that marry rustic flavors with sophisticated technique.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes

  • 800g potatoes (Bintje or Yukon Gold)
  • 40g butter
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper
  • Optional: Pinch of nutmeg

For the Mushroom and Hazelnut Filling

  • 300g fresh button mushrooms
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp crème fraîche (optional)
  • 50g toasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper

For the Coating

  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 100g flour
  • 150g breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
  • Oil for frying

US Measurements: 1.75 lbs potatoes, 1.4 oz butter, 300g mushrooms, 1.7 oz hazelnuts, 3.5 oz flour, 5.3 oz breadcrumbs Metric Measurements: 800g potatoes, 40g butter, 300g mushrooms, 50g hazelnuts, 100g flour, 150g breadcrumbs

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

  • Peel and cut potatoes into even pieces
  • Cook in salted water for 20 minutes until tender
  • Drain potatoes
  • Mash while hot
  • Add butter and mix until smooth
  • Stir in egg
  • Season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg
  • Set aside to cool

2. Prepare the Mushroom Filling

  • Clean and chop mushrooms
  • Finely chop onion
  • Melt butter in a pan
  • Sauté onions until translucent
  • Add mushrooms and cook until golden
  • Stir in crème fraîche (if using)
  • Add chopped hazelnuts and parsley
  • Season with salt and pepper
  • Allow to cool completely

3. Form and Coat the Croquettes

  • Mix mashed potatoes with mushroom filling
  • Shape into 12 uniform croquettes
  • Prepare three shallow dishes:
    • Flour
    • Beaten egg
    • Breadcrumbs
  • Coat each croquette:
    1. Roll in flour
    2. Dip in egg
    3. Cover in breadcrumbs

4. Fry the Croquettes

  • Heat oil to 175°C (350°F)
  • Fry croquettes in batches
  • Cook until golden brown and crispy
  • Drain on paper towels

Cooking Details

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 (12 croquettes)
  • Cuisine: French-inspired

Nutritional Highlights (per serving)

  • Calories: Approximately 350-400
  • Rich in complex carbohydrates
  • Good source of protein
  • Contains healthy fats from hazelnuts

Why These Croquettes Are Extraordinary

These potato croquettes are a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The creamy potato base, earthy mushrooms, and crunchy hazelnuts create a multi-dimensional eating experience. Packed with nutrients and offering a gourmet twist on a classic comfort food, these croquettes prove that vegetarian dishes can be both sophisticated and satisfying.

Pro Tips

  • Ensure potatoes and filling are completely cool before forming croquettes
  • Maintain consistent oil temperature for perfect crispiness
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
  • Don’t overcrowd the frying pan

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a fresh green salad
  • Pair with aioli or herb sauce
  • Enjoy as an appetizer or light main course
  • Great with a crisp white wine

Bon appétit!