Belgian Grey Shrimp Croquettes (Croquettes de Crevettes Grises)
Crispy on the outside, creamy and flavorful on the inside, these croquettes are a beloved Belgian appetizer or light meal, featuring the delicate taste of North Sea grey shrimp.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Belgian grey shrimp(peeled)
- 70 g Butter
- 70 g All-purpose flour
- 500 ml Milk(warm)
- 2 large Egg yolks
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg(freshly grated)
- to taste Salt
- to taste White pepper
- 2 large Eggs(beaten, for coating)
- 200 g Breadcrumbs(panko or fine breadcrumbs)
- for frying Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the béchamel base: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 2
Gradually whisk in the warm milk until smooth. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to a very stiff consistency.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes💡 Tip: The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape. - 3
Remove from heat. Stir in the egg yolks one at a time, followed by the nutmeg, salt, and white pepper. Mix well.
💡 Tip: Ensure the sauce has cooled slightly before adding yolks to prevent scrambling. - 4
Gently fold in the peeled grey shrimp. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface, and refrigerate until completely firm.
⏱️ 4+ hours💡 Tip: Chilling for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, is crucial. - 5
Once firm, shape the mixture into croquettes (oval or cylindrical shapes).
💡 Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. - 6
Set up a breading station: one dish with beaten eggs, another with breadcrumbs.
💡 Tip: Ensure all croquettes are evenly coated. - 7
Dip each croquette first in beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs, ensuring full coverage. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for a double crust.
💡 Tip: A double coating ensures a crispier exterior. - 8
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 180°C (350°F).
⏱️ 10 minutes - 9
Fry the croquettes in batches until golden brown and heated through.
⏱️ 3-4 minutes per batch - 10
Remove croquettes with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately.
💡 Tip: Serve with a wedge of lemon.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using fresh Belgian grey shrimp is key for authentic flavor.
- ✓The béchamel must be very thick to hold its shape during frying.
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for crispy, non-greasy croquettes.
🔄 Variations
- Add finely chopped chives or parsley to the béchamel mixture.
- For a richer flavor, a splash of white wine can be added to the béchamel.