How to make Croquetes de Carne

Why cooks start here

Croquetes de Carne is cooked the way Portuguese cafés cooks it — good olive oil used without counting, salt judged by hand, and no fuss about the plate. This is the home version, written down the way a Portuguese family cook actually puts it on the table.

Croquetes de Carne finds its roots in the bustling kitchens of Portuguese cafés, where cooks wield good olive oil and seasoned hands without the need for precise measurements. At home, these croquettes transform leftover beef into a cherished meal, capturing the essence of Portuguese comfort cooking. While café versions might be enjoyed with an espresso at any time of day, the home-cooked variety often graces the dinner table as a satisfying main course or a beloved appetizer. These croquettes feature a creamy beef and béchamel filling seasoned with nutmeg and garlic, enveloped in a crunchy breadcrumb shell, with caramelized onions and tomato paste adding depth and sweetness for a hearty yet elegant dish.