Pancetta and Romano Potato Croquettes Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 ounces sliced pancetta, crisp-cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/2 cup Italian-style dried bread crumbs
• 3 cups vegetable oil for frying
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, oregano, and/or basil), plus more for garnish
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, grated Romano cheese, beaten eggs, crumbled pancetta, 2 tablespoons of minced parsley, minced garlic, onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and crushed red pepper.
2. Using damp hands, form the mixture into 18 small patties. Coat each patty evenly in the bread crumbs.
3. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan to a depth of 1/2 inch (about 3 cups of oil). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350F to 365F (175C to 185C).
4. While the oil is heating, preheat the oven to 200F (93C) to keep the croquettes warm after frying.
5. Working in batches, fry the potato patties in the hot oil, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown on both sides, which should take 2 to 4 minutes.
6. Once fried, transfer the croquettes to a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil, and place them in the preheated oven to keep warm.
7. To make the sauce, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, lemon juice, chopped herbs, cider vinegar, black pepper, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a small bowl.
8. Garnish the sauce with additional fresh herbs.
9. Serve the croquettes hot, accompanied by the sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	448	22%
Total Fat	26g	34%
Saturated Fat	6g	30%
Cholesterol	80mg	27%
Sodium	1504mg	65%
Total Carbohydrate	43g	15%
Dietary Fiber	4g	13%
Total Sugars	11g	-
Protein	11g	22%
Vitamin C	19mg	21%
Calcium	193mg	15%
Iron	2mg	10%
Potassium	620mg	13%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin of the Dish

The concept of croquettes has a rich history, with its origins tracing back to French cuisine in the 18th century. Initially, croquettes were a way to repurpose leftovers, typically made from mashed potatoes or minced meat, and deep-fried into crispy, golden delights. Over time, the dish spread across Europe, evolving to fit regional tastes. In Italy, the croquette became a staple, often incorporating local cheeses, meats, and herbs to reflect the diverse Italian palate.

The Pancetta and Romano Potato Croquettes, as the name suggests, are a modern Italian-inspired twist on this classic dish. Combining the savory flavor of pancetta and the sharp, tangy taste of Romano cheese, these croquettes offer a more robust flavor profile compared to traditional potato croquettes. The inclusion of Dijon mustard and fresh herbs in the dipping sauce adds an extra layer of complexity to the dish.

Regional Variations

While the basic concept of croquettes is popular across Italy, different regions have their own variations. In southern Italy, for instance, you may find croquettes stuffed with mozzarella, while in the north, they might include meats like sausage or bacon. The use of pancetta in this recipe aligns with the central and northern Italian traditions, where cured meats are frequently incorporated into both rustic and gourmet dishes.

The addition of Romano cheese, a staple of central and southern Italy, further enhances the dish's regional roots. This hard, salty cheese is known for its intense flavor, making it the perfect complement to the richness of mashed potatoes and crispy pancetta.

What Makes This Dish Different

Many potato croquettes are made using simple mashed potatoes, breaded and fried. However, the Pancetta and Romano Potato Croquettes stand out due to the flavorful combination of pancetta, Romano cheese, and garlic. Pancetta, a type of Italian cured pork, adds a savory, slightly smoky element, while the Romano cheese brings sharpness and tang to the dish. Unlike traditional recipes, which may rely on a single seasoning or cheese, this variation introduces a more complex, savory profile thats perfect for those looking for a hearty bite.

Where Is It Typically Served?

The Pancetta and Romano Potato Croquettes are perfect as a side dish or appetizer and are frequently served in Italian restaurants or trattorias, particularly in the central and northern regions of Italy. They are often enjoyed as part of a larger meal, accompanying dishes like pasta, roasted meats, or salads. Given their rich, savory flavor, these croquettes also make a fantastic snack or party food, paired with a chilled glass of white wine or an aperitif.

Fun Facts About the Dish

• The word "croquette" comes from the French word "croquer," meaning "to crunch," which perfectly describes the crispy texture of these golden delights.
• In Italy, pancetta is often served uncooked as a topping for bread or salads, but it also plays a crucial role in cooking, where it imparts deep, savory flavors to many traditional dishes.
• Romano cheese is not just a common ingredient in Italian cuisine, but it is also one of the oldest cheeses in the world, dating back to Roman times!
• In Italian cuisine, potato-based dishes like gnocchi and croquettes are often used as comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction during colder months.

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