Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Mixture
Finely shred the cabbage:
Using a sharp knife or a food processor, finely shred half a cabbage (about 500 g). If the cabbage is too wet, gently squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Cook the cabbage and onion:
In a large pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the shredded cabbage and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the cabbage is soft and slightly wilted. Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, and oregano. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
Add eggs to the mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled cabbage mixture with 2 eggs. Stir until the eggs are evenly incorporated. The eggs will help bind the mixture together when shaping the croquettes.
Step 2: Shape the Croquettes
Form the croquettes:
Take small portions of the cabbage mixture and shape them into croquettes or oval patties using your hands. You can make them about the size of a small meatball or slightly larger, depending on your preference. Set the shaped croquettes aside on a plate.
Prepare the breading station:
In one shallow bowl, whisk 1 egg. In another shallow bowl, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup of powdered cheese.
Bread the croquettes:
Dip each croquette first into the whisked egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then roll it in the breadcrumb and cheese mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the croquettes to make sure they are well-coated and evenly covered.
Step 3: Fry the Croquettes
Heat the oil:
Pour enough oil into a deep frying pan or pot to fully submerge the croquettes. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 180°C (350°F). To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of bread into the oil—it should sizzle and turn golden brown within a few seconds.
Fry the croquettes:
Carefully place the croquettes into the hot oil, frying them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry each croquette for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the croquettes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Mix the sauce ingredients:
In a small bowl, combine 2 natural yogurts (250 g total) with the minced garlic, finely chopped chives, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
Chill the sauce:
Let the sauce sit in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy croquettes, adding a cool, tangy contrast to their savory flavor.
Step 5: Serve the Croquettes
Plate the croquettes:
Serve the crispy cabbage croquettes hot, along with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with additional fresh chives or parsley if desired.
Enjoy:
These croquettes make a delicious snack, appetizer, or side dish. You can serve them alongside a green salad, with rice, or as part of a mezze platter with other dips and vegetables.
Cooking Tips
Shredding the Cabbage: Be sure to shred the cabbage finely for a smoother texture in the croquettes. If the pieces are too large, they may not bind as well.
Binding the Mixture: If the cabbage mixture feels too wet or doesn’t hold its shape well, you can add a tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs to the mixture to help bind it together before shaping the croquettes.
Baking Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the croquettes in the oven. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake the croquettes on a greased baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Cheese Options: Feel free to use any type of powdered or grated cheese, such as Parmesan, cheddar, or a blend of both, depending on your preference.
Storage
In the Refrigerator: Store any leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven or pan to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the croquettes soggy.
In the Freezer: You can freeze the croquettes before or after frying. To freeze before frying, shape the croquettes and bread them as instructed, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If freezing after frying, reheat them in the oven to regain their crispy texture.
Nutritional Facts (Per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: Approximately 230 kcal
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 3g
Sodium: 340mg
Vitamin A: 20% of the recommended daily intake
Vitamin C: 35% of the recommended daily intake
Calcium: 12% of the recommended daily intake
Iron: 6% of the recommended daily intake
FAQs
Can I make the croquettes gluten-free?
Yes, to make these croquettes gluten-free, simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that any seasonings or cheese used are also gluten-free.
Can I substitute the cabbage with other vegetables?
Yes, you can substitute cabbage with other vegetables such as grated zucchini, carrots, or a combination of both. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the vegetables before mixing them into the batter.
What can I serve with these croquettes?
These croquettes pair well with a variety of sides such as a fresh salad, rice, or as part of a larger meal with roasted vegetables or grilled meats. They also go well with dips like hummus or tzatziki in addition to the yogurt sauce.
How can I prevent the croquettes from falling apart?
If your croquettes are falling apart while frying, make sure the cabbage mixture is well-bound with eggs. You can also chill the croquettes for 10-15 minutes in the fridge before frying to help them hold their shape.
Can I add more spices or herbs to the croquettes?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spices and herbs according to your taste. You can add paprika, coriander, or fresh parsley for additional flavor.
Conclusion
Cabbage Croquettes with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are a delightful way to enjoy vegetables in a crispy, flavorful form. With their crunchy exterior and soft, seasoned interior, these croquettes offer a satisfying combination of textures and tastes. The creamy garlic yogurt sauce adds a cool, tangy complement, making this dish perfect for snacking, appetizers, or even as a main course when paired with a salad or side. Easy to make and packed with flavor, these croquettes are sure to become a favorite!
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