Ingredients:
For the filling:
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any unsweetened low-carb milk)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp coconut flour (for thickening)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the breading:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup crushed pork rinds (optional, for extra crunch)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil, for frying (avocado or coconut oil works great)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the almond milk over medium heat. Once warm, add the cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth.
- Add the coconut flour, garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Continue to cook on low heat for about 5-7 minutes, until the mixture thickens and becomes a creamy, dough-like consistency. If it’s too runny, add a little more coconut flour to thicken.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and let the mixture cool for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Form the Croquettes:
- Once the mixture has cooled, scoop out small portions using a spoon or your hands and shape them into small cylinders or balls, about 1-2 inches long.
- Place the shaped croquettes on a parchment-lined tray.
3. Coat the Croquettes:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the almond flour and crushed pork rinds (if using). Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Dip each croquette into the beaten egg, then roll it in the almond flour-pork rind mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
4. Fry the Croquettes:
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the croquettes into the pan in batches, frying them for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the croquettes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Serve:
- Let the croquettes cool slightly before serving. These are perfect on their own or paired with a low-carb dipping sauce like sugar-free ketchup, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Tips:
- Make-ahead option: You can prepare the filling in advance, shape the croquettes, and freeze them before frying. When ready to cook, just fry them directly from the freezer for an extra crispy exterior.
- Dipping sauce: For extra flavor, try dipping the croquettes in a tangy low-carb sauce like mustard, garlic butter, or sugar-free ketchup.
- Add-ins: If you like, you can add finely chopped spinach, herbs, or even cooked ground meat to the filling for more texture and flavor.
These Keto and Low Carb Crispy Milk Croquettes are a savory, crunchy snack or appetizer that will satisfy your cravings for crispy comfort food while keeping you on track with your keto and low-carb goals.
