Croqueta

A Spanish appetizer made with flattened or ground ham, fish, or poultry and vegetables that are cooked and combined into a blend that is served. A paste made from flour and olive oil is prepared by heating the mixture in a pan. As it warms and begins to be combined, other ingredients such as small bits of meat and vegetables are added, stirring the ingredients together with the paste. As the mixture binds together, its individual bite-sized servings are formed into 4 to 6 inch long oval-shaped logs. An egg batter is prepared into which the formed croquetas are dipped and then rolled in breadcrumbs. The croquetas are then fried until light tan and crispy.