This is my version of potato croquettes, which I used to enjoy a lot, but until recently had not eaten for some years. This recipe  is a more unusual way of cooking potatoes, and they go with anything. A croquette is usually made from minced meat, potatoes or other vegetables, seasoned, rolled into a small sausage shape, coated in breadcrumbs and fried. I had some leftover mashed potato the other day so it occurred to me I could make some of these old favourites with it.

My take on this recipe, is that I have made them round rather than sausage-shaped and baked rather than fried them, which is more healthy! They taste just as good, and it saves quite a lot of calories to bake them. You can always fry these instead though, if you want to do it the traditional way. They should be crunchy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside.These are great as a side dish or an accompaniment to just about anything. I had them the other night with a Linda McCartney Country Pie and peas.

Delicious!

Ingredients (makes around 8-10 croquettes, depending on size)

2 large baking potatoes

Around 4 tbsp plant milk, such as rice- or oatmilk

4 tbsp breadcrumbs (the kind from a packet)

1-2 tbsp vegan margarine e.g. Vitalite

Garlic or onion powder, chopped parsley, or other seasoning

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

White pepper (optional)

Method

1) Peel the potatoes, chop into pieces and boil in salted water until soft, about 20-25 minutes. Drain well.

2) Using a potato masher or a fork, mash the potatoes thoroughly.

3) Whilst warm, stir in vegan margarine, 2 tbsp of the plant milk, salt and pepper, onion or garlic powder and other seasonings if using.

4) Using a tablespoon, dip into mash mix, and then with the hands form the spoonful into a small ball, repeating until all the mash is used.

5) Scatter breadcrumbs over a chopping board or surface in a thick even layer.

6) Briefly dip each of the potato balls into the remaining plant mik, then roll in the breadcrumbs until evenly coated.

7) Place on a lightly-greased baking tray and bake in the oven until golden brown, around 20 minutes, turning once during cooking.

8) Serve at once as a side-dish or accompaniment.

Enjoy, let me know what you think! Your votes and comments are much appreciated.

*Image courtesy Flickr creative commons.