Recipe by Rotem Sher
Preparation time: about 30 minutes | Makes around 12 pieces
About the Dish
Crispy on the outside and soft, cheesy, and creamy on the inside - these croquettes combine Mediterranean comfort with modern elegance.
The silky potato purée blends with mozzarella and parmesan for a rich, savory base, while the red chili adds a gentle hint of heat.
Each croquette is topped with a seared mushroom cap and a salty anchovy fillet, creating a perfect umami balance of textures and flavors. Their golden, glossy look makes them ideal as a festive starter or one-bite appetizer.
Ingredients
For the croquettes
- 4 medium potatoes
- 100 g shredded mozzarella
- 100 g grated parmesan
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt
- Panko breadcrumbs for coating
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the roasted mushrooms
- 12 mushroom caps (Oyster or Chestnut mushrooms work beautifully)
- Olive oil
- Salt
For serving
- 12 anchovy fillets, cleaned and cured
- Fresh lemon juice
Preparation
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Peel the potatoes, cut into cubes, and cook in salted water until fully tender.
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Drain and mash into a smooth purée.
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In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with mozzarella, parmesan, egg, flour, chopped chili, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
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Shape the mixture into small balls or logs, then coat each piece evenly with panko breadcrumbs.
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Heat a pot with oil for deep-frying and fry the croquettes until golden and crisp on all sides.
- Transfer to a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Roasted Mushrooms
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Brush the mushroom caps lightly with olive oil and season with salt.
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Sear in a hot skillet until golden and slightly tender.
Assembly & Plating
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Place one roasted mushroom cap on each croquette.
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Top with an anchovy fillet.
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Skewer together with a toothpick or small skewer to create a perfect bite.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
Nutritional & Health Benefits
Potatoes provide natural energy and potassium, mushrooms add fiber, antioxidants, and plant-based protein, and anchovies bring omega-3 fatty acids and minerals that support heart and brain health. Combined with olive oil and quality cheeses, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment.
