Belgian Shrimp Croquettes (Croquettes Aux Crevettes Grises)

May 08, 2023May 8, 20230 26
Delicious Belgian Shrimp Croquettes for a tasty snack or lunch
in Appetizer

Prep

25 min

Cook

15 min

Ready In

4 hours 40 min

Level

Difficult

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1/2 lb unpeeled shrimp , smallest available
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion , thinly sliced
1 3/4 cups milk , plus
5 tablespoons milk
1/2 bay leaf
1/4 ounce unflavored gelatin ( one envelope )
5 tablespoons cold water
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 ounces parmesan cheese or 2 ounces gruyere cheese , grated
1 large egg yolk
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
salt & freshly ground black pepper , to taste
freshly grated nutmeg
1 pinch cayenne pepper
3 large egg whites
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup dried breadcrumbs
vegetable oil ( for deep frying )
boston lettuce leaf ( optional )
lemon wedge ( optional )
fried parsley ( optional )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
4
Calories
372
Sugar
5g
Fat
24g
Belgian Shrimp Croquettes, or Croquettes Aux Crevettes Grises, are a traditional Belgian snack or lunch dish, often enjoyed with a side of boston lettuce and lemon. These small, cylindrical croquettes are typically filled with shrimp and creamy béchamel sauce, and then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside. They are commonly found at street vendors and cafes throughout Belgium and are a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. This recipe is a classic take on the dish, using simple ingredients to create a delicious and flavorful snack that can be made at home. The croquettes are rich and indulgent, with a creamy shrimp filling that is perfectly complemented by the crispy breadcrumb coating.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, boil the unpeeled shrimp until just cooked, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool enough to handle.
2.Peel the shrimp and chop into small pieces.
3.In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-6 minutes.
4.Add 1 3/4 cups of milk and the bay leaf to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer and then remove from the heat. Discard the bay leaf.
5.In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 5 tablespoons of cold water. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until the gelatin is softened.
6.Return the saucepan to low heat. Add the flour to the butter and milk mixture, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture has thickened.
7.Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the gelatin mixture, cheese, egg yolk, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
8.In a separate large bowl, beat the egg whites with 1/2 teaspoon of salt until stiff peaks form.
9.Fold the shrimp into the milk mixture. Then, fold in the egg whites until just combined.
10.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
11.When ready to fry, heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
12.Shape the mixture into small cylinders or croquette shapes.
13.Working in batches, coat the croquettes in flour, then in the breadcrumbs, shaking off any excess in between.
14.Fry the croquettes until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
15.Use a slotted spoon to remove the croquettes from the oil and drain on paper towels.
16.Serve hot with a side of boston lettuce leaves, lemon wedges, and fried parsley if desired.

PROS

Belgian Shrimp Croquettes are delicious and crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.
They are perfect as a snack or light lunch, and can be made ahead of time for a quick meal.

Shrimp is a good source of protein and healthy fats, making this recipe a healthier option for a fried snack.

CONS

This recipe involves deep-frying, which can be messy and may not be suitable for those who are trying to limit their fat intake.

The chilling time required for the mixture means that this recipe is best made ahead of time, which may not fit everybody’s schedule.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Shrimp is a good source of protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower inflammation and improve overall heart health.
The milk and cheese in this recipe provide a source of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth.

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