
These crispy, golden croquettes feature a rich, molten blend of Manchego, Cheddar, and Parmesan. Served with a homemade tart cranberry dipping sauce, they make an elegant and irresistible appetizer for any festive gathering.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the finely chopped shallots and sauté gently for 10–12 minutes until they are soft and translucent. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a thick roux.
In a separate pan, warm the milk until steaming. Gradually whisk the warm milk into the flour mixture until you have a smooth, thick sauce. Stir in the cayenne pepper, the three grated cheeses, and a pinch of salt until melted. Pour the mixture into a baking tray, let it cool for 30 minutes, then cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Prepare the cranberry sauce by combining the cranberries, sugar, and 100ml of water in a small pan. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Season to taste and set aside to cool. If the sauce becomes too thick once chilled, loosen it with a splash of water.
With damp hands, roll the chilled cheese mixture into walnut-sized balls. Place the beaten eggs in a shallow bowl and the panko breadcrumbs on a plate. Roll each ball in the egg, then the crumbs, ensuring they are well coated. Repeat the process to create a double layer of breading; this prevents the cheese from leaking during frying.
Fill a large saucepan one-third full with vegetable oil and heat to 175°C (350°F), or until a cube of bread browns in 30 seconds. Carefully fry the croquettes in small batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with kitchen paper. Drain for a few minutes and serve warm with the cranberry sauce.
For the best results, ensure the cheese mixture is completely cold and firm before shaping. The double-coating of breadcrumbs is essential to create a sturdy crust that holds the molten cheese inside. If you're making these for a party, you can bread them a few hours in advance and keep them chilled until ready to fry.




