Crispy Spanish Ham Croquettes (Croquetas de Jamón)

Steps

1. Heat olive oil in a medium fry pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and garlic, cook 2-3 minutes until onions are slightly translucent.
3. Add 1/4 cup flour and mix for 2 minutes.
4. Slowly add milk while stirring continuously until a thick paste forms.
5. Turn off heat; stir in chopped ham, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
6. Transfer mixture to a bowl, cover, and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
7. Set up a breading station: flour in one bowl, whisked egg with milk, salt, and pepper in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.
8. Shape chilled mixture into small cylinders about the size of a large egg.
9. Coat each croquette in flour, then egg wash, then breadcrumbs, ensuring even coverage.
10. Heat virgin olive oil in a fry pan over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
11. Fry croquettes in batches, about 3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
12. Drain on paper towels.
13. Serve hot or warm, garnished with fresh parsley.