Name: Crispy Fish Croquettes That Will Surprise Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 can King Oscar's Brisling Sardines in Zesty Tomato Sauce; 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (use cold for best results); 1 cup diced white onion (sauté and cool before adding); 1/2 cup minced celery; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (use generously); 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (sprinkle more on top for garnish); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon cracked pepper (or cayenne for heat); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 whole eggs (beaten); 1 cup panko bread crumbs (or regular breadcrumbs if needed); 2 cups oil for frying (use olive or avocado oil); 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (creamy base); 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (always best when fresh); 2 tablespoons chopped chives (for sauce); pinch kosher salt (for sauce, adjust to taste)

As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of sizzling oil enveloped me, hinting at the deliciousness about to unfold. These Crispy Fish Croquettes are not just any appetizer; they are a culinary celebration perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights. Featuring King Oscar’s Brisling Sardines in Zesty Tomato Sauce, these little bites are a delightful cross between crunchy and creamy, offering a savory taste that your guests will adore. Not only are they a great way to elevate leftover mashed potatoes into something indulgent, but they also come together in a snap, making them a fantastic option for those busy holiday parties. Ready to impress with a zesty mustard dipping sauce? Let’s dive in and discover just how simple and satisfying these croquettes can be!

Why Are These Croquettes a Must-Try?

Crispy, Golden Perfection: These croquettes boast a satisfyingly crunchy coating that gives way to a creamy, flavorful interior.
Savory Sardine Surprise: King Oscar’s Brisling Sardines add a rich depth of flavor, making each bite utterly irresistible.
Quick and Easy: Using leftover mashed potatoes transforms them into a quick and delightful dish, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Pairing: Serve them with a tangy mustard sauce or alongside a fresh salad for an impressive appetizer plate.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Their unique flavor and delightful texture will have everyone coming back for seconds, making them a hit at any holiday event. Plus, for other unique seafood takes, try our Baja Fish Tacos or Karaage Chicken Umami for your next culinary adventure!

Crispy Fish Croquettes Ingredients

• Get ready to create the ultimate holiday appetizer with these Crispy Fish Croquettes!

For the Croquettes

King Oscar’s Brisling Sardines in Zesty Tomato Sauce – Adds rich flavor and moisture, perfect for a delectable filling.
Leftover Mashed Potatoes – Provides creaminess and structure; use cold for best results.
Diced White Onion – Enhances flavor; sauté and cool before adding for optimal taste.
Minced Celery – Brings a delightful crunch and freshness to the mix.
Chopped Fresh Parsley – Adds a burst of herbal notes; use generously for a fresh kick.
Chopped Fresh Chives – Imparts a mild onion flavor; sprinkle more on top for garnish.
Kosher Salt – Elevates all the flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
Cracked Pepper – Introduces subtle heat; opt for cayenne if you’re feeling spicy.
All-Purpose Flour – Essential for coating the croquettes, ensuring a crispy finish.
Eggs (beaten) – Act as a binder to hold the coating tightly.
Panko Bread Crumbs – Creates an extra crispy crust; opt for regular breadcrumbs if needed.
Oil for Frying (high smoke point) – Use olive oil or avocado oil for deep frying.

For the Mustard Sauce

Plain Greek Yogurt – Forms the creamy base of the tangy dipping sauce.
Dijon Mustard – Adds a delightful zing; perfect for complementing the croquettes.
Garlic Powder – Infuses depth of flavor; adjust to your taste for extra richness.
Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice – Brightens the sauce beautifully; always best when fresh.
Chopped Chives (for sauce) – Adds additional flavor and visual appeal to your dip.
Pinch of Kosher Salt (for sauce) – Enhances the overall taste; don’t forget to adjust!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Fish Croquettes

Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the diced white onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Remove the pan from heat and set the sautéed onions aside to cool, ensuring they don’t cook further while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Heat the Oil for Frying
In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, pour in about 2 inches of oil, such as olive or avocado oil, and begin heating over medium-high heat. Aim for a temperature of around 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready for frying, sprinkle a few breadcrumbs into the oil; if they sizzle upon contact, it’s time to start frying your crispy fish croquettes.

Step 3: Prepare the Croquette Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled sautéed onions, leftover mashed potatoes, minced celery, chopped parsley, King Oscar’s Brisling Sardines, chopped chives, kosher salt, and cracked pepper. Mix well with a fork or a spatula until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated, forming a cohesive and flavorful filling for your croquettes.

Step 4: Shape the Croquettes
With clean hands, take a portion of the mixture and shape it into small balls or patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Ensure they are compact and well-formed to hold together while frying. Set the shaped croquettes on a plate or tray to make the coating process easier before frying your crispy fish croquettes.

Step 5: Coat the Croquettes
Prepare your breading station by setting out three shallow bowls. Place flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs in the third. Roll each shaped croquette in flour, dip it in the beaten eggs to coat, and then roll it in panko breadcrumbs, making sure each piece is thoroughly covered for that perfect crunch.

Step 6: Fry the Croquettes
Once the oil is hot, carefully place a few croquettes in the skillet at a time, being cautious not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to flip them gently and ensure even cooking, achieving that delicious crispy exterior.

Step 7: Drain and Serve
After frying, use a slotted spoon to remove the croquettes from the oil, allowing excess oil to drip off. Transfer the crispy fish croquettes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any remaining oil. Let them cool slightly before serving, and garnish with fresh chives. Pair with a tangy mustard sauce for dipping, making these delightful bites even more irresistible.

What to Serve with Crispy Fish Croquettes

Elevate your meal with delightful sides that harmonize beautifully with these golden, crunchy bites.

Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed with a zesty vinaigrette add brightness, balancing the savory richness of the croquettes.
Garlic Butter Bread: Soft, warm bread with melted garlic butter offers a comforting, indulgent pairing, perfect for mopping up the mustard sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized to perfection, these colorful veggies add a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness to each bite.
Tangy Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy texture of coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing complements the hearty croquettes effortlessly.
Stuffed Tomatoes: Juicy tomatoes filled with herbed quinoa or rice provide a refreshing and nutritious contrast in flavor.
Crisp Beer: A light astringent beer pairs nicely with the croquettes, cutting through their richness while enhancing the savory flavors.
Lemon Sorbet: As a refreshing end to your meal, a cool, citrusy sorbet cleanses the palate beautifully after indulging in crispy fish croquettes.

Storage Tips for Crispy Fish Croquettes

Fridge: Store leftover crispy fish croquettes in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated for a warm treat.

Freezer: If you want to freeze them, place uncooked or cooked croquettes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat fried croquettes in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness, ensuring your crispy fish croquettes are just as delightful as when freshly made.

Room Temperature: Do not leave croquettes out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain freshness.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Fish Croquettes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time for those busy holiday gatherings! You can shape the croquettes and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. To maintain their quality, arrange the uncooked croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil and fry them straight from the fridge until golden brown and crispy. This way, you can enjoy perfect, delicious croquettes with minimal effort and maximum delight!

Crispy Fish Croquettes Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize these delicious croquettes with these simple yet delightful swaps!

Cauliflower Mash: Replace mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower for a lighter, low-carb version. The flavors still shine through!
Tuna Delight: Use canned tuna instead of sardines for a different, yet equally savory taste. It’s a great way to switch up the flavor profile!
Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the filling for an added spicy flair. Everyone will love the surprise!
Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a unique twist on flavor. These croquettes will have a refreshing character!
Crispy Cheese: Add shredded cheese to the potato mixture for a gooey, cheesy center. It’s a comforting addition that takes them over the top.
Baked Option: Instead of frying, brush the shaped croquettes with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes for a healthier alternative. Crispiness remains!

For more scrumptious seafood ideas, don’t forget to check out our Gai Tod Thai or the flavorful Baja Fish Tacos for a taste adventure!

Expert Tips for Crispy Fish Croquettes

Hot Oil Check: Make sure your oil is hot enough by dropping in a few breadcrumbs; if they sizzle, you’re good to go! This ensures perfectly crispy fish croquettes.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the croquettes in small batches; overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and leads to greasy results.
Cool Onions Thoroughly: Allow sautéed onions to cool completely before mixing; warm onions can change the texture of the filling.
Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: Cold mashed potatoes help bind the croquettes better, giving you that ideal consistency when shaping.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before shaping; adjust salt and pepper to get the perfect flavor balance in your crispy fish croquettes.

Crispy Fish Croquettes Recipe FAQs

What kind of sardines should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using King Oscar’s Brisling Sardines in Zesty Tomato Sauce for their rich flavor and moisture. However, any quality canned sardines can work as a substitute if you can’t find them.

How can I store leftover crispy fish croquettes?
Leftover crispy fish croquettes should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can enjoy them cold or reheat them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their delightful crispiness.

Can I freeze the croquettes?
Very much! To freeze them, arrange uncooked croquettes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can remain frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to fry them, cook straight from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.

What should I do if the croquettes fall apart while frying?
Oh no! If your croquettes are falling apart, it might be due to using warm mashed potatoes or not enough binding from the egg. Ensure your mashed potatoes are cold and consider adding another beaten egg to the mixture to help bind everything better. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the frying pan to keep your oil temperature consistent.

Are the crispy fish croquettes suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! To make these crispy fish croquettes gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour and panko bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are various brands of gluten-free breadcrumbs available, and using a gluten-free flour blend will maintain the desired texture while making them safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

What can I serve alongside these croquettes?
The more the merrier! These crispy fish croquettes are versatile and can be paired with a fresh salad, tangy mustard sauce, or even a zesty yogurt dip. For an additional flavor burst, consider serving with a side of pickled vegetables or roasted bell pepper sauce.