Brazilian recipe
Homemade ground beef croquettes: an authentic recipe (Bolinho de carne)
Whip up juicy, crispy ground beef croquettes, the ultimate snack. This traditional recipe features vibrant seasonings that bring a true taste of Brazil to your table.
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Ingredients
2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced
1 egg
Cooking oil for deep-frying
Salt to taste
2 to 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or enough to bind)
500g ground beef
1/2 onion, finely chopped or grated
Black pepper to taste
1/2 tomato, peeled and diced (optional)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, to taste
1 egg
Cooking oil for deep-frying
Salt to taste
2 to 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or enough to bind)
500g ground beef
1/2 onion, finely chopped or grated
Black pepper to taste
1/2 tomato, peeled and diced (optional)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, to taste
Where to find ingredients
You can find fresh ground beef and aromatics at local markets or supermarkets like Massy Stores. Use standard all-purpose flour from the baking aisle. For authentic Brazilian flavor, fresh cilantro or flat-leaf parsley is highly recommended over dried herbs.
Preparation method
- Place the ground beef in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the onion, garlic, tomato (if using), cilantro or parsley, salt, and black pepper to the meat.
- Mix all the seasonings into the beef thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavor.
- Add the egg and 2 tablespoons of flour to the mixture.
- Combine everything well until you achieve a consistency that can be shaped.
- If the mixture feels too moist and difficult to handle, incorporate more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is moldable and no longer sticks to your hands.
- Shape the mixture into small balls or slightly flattened patties, keeping them uniform in size so they cook evenly.
- Heat a generous amount of oil in a deep pot or heavy-bottomed frying pan over medium heat.
- Test the oil temperature by dropping a tiny piece of the mixture into the pan.
- The oil is at the ideal temperature when the piece rises to the surface and bubbles steadily.
- Deep-fry the croquettes over medium heat until they are perfectly golden-brown on the outside and cooked through.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature and can affect the crunchiness.
- Remove the finished croquettes and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil before serving.
Observations
Ground beef croquettes—known locally as bolinhos de carne—are a beloved snack in Brazil, making them an essential staple for gatherings, barbecues, or just a casual afternoon bite.
This recipe relies on high-quality ground beef seasoned with fresh aromatics like onion, garlic, and either cilantro or parsley to ensure a bold, authentic flavor profile.
The preparation is straightforward, yielding croquettes that are tender on the inside with a satisfying, golden-brown crust when fried. They are perfect paired with a cold drink or served as a flavorful appetizer.
With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can easily replicate these savory bites at home.
This recipe relies on high-quality ground beef seasoned with fresh aromatics like onion, garlic, and either cilantro or parsley to ensure a bold, authentic flavor profile.
The preparation is straightforward, yielding croquettes that are tender on the inside with a satisfying, golden-brown crust when fried. They are perfect paired with a cold drink or served as a flavorful appetizer.
With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can easily replicate these savory bites at home.
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