Ingredients:
For the Croquettes:
- Semolina (Rava/Sooji): 1 cup
- Milk: 2 cups
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: to taste
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Cheese: ½ cup, grated (e.g., mozzarella or cheddar)
- Carrot: ½ cup, grated
- Spinach: ½ cup, finely chopped
- Green Peas: ¼ cup (optional)
- Chili Flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional)
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (for coating)
- Oil: for shallow frying
For the Spicy Yogurt Dip:
- Yogurt: 1 cup
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Red Chili Powder or Paprika: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: to taste
- Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon
- Fresh Coriander or Dill: 1 tablespoon, chopped
Instructions:
- Prepare the Croquette Dough:
- Heat milk, butter, salt, and black pepper in a pan over medium heat.
- Once the milk starts to simmer, add semolina gradually, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Cook the mixture on low heat until it thickens and pulls away from the pan.
- Mix in grated cheese, carrots, spinach, green peas, and chili flakes. Stir until evenly combined.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly until it’s easy to handle.
- Shape the Croquettes:
- Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into cylinders or balls.
- Roll each croquette in breadcrumbs for a crispy coating.
- Fry the Croquettes:
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Shallow fry the croquettes until golden brown and crisp on all sides. Drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
- Make the Spicy Yogurt Dip:
- In a bowl, whisk yogurt with minced garlic, chili powder, salt, and lemon juice.
- Stir in chopped coriander or dill for a fresh touch.
Serving Suggestion:
Arrange the croquettes on a platter and serve hot with the spicy yogurt dip on the side. Garnish with a sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of olive oil for added flair.
This dish combines crispy, cheesy semolina croquettes with a tangy, spicy dip for a delightful fusion of flavors and textures!