Tirokroketes: Greek Cheese Croquettes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tirokroketes are the ultimate comfort food, combining the richness of cheese with a satisfying crispy exterior. The filling is often made with a combination of feta and other cheeses, offering a balance of creamy and tangy flavors. The crunchy breadcrumbs and crispy golden crust give these croquettes the perfect texture contrast. They are quick to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and are always a crowd-pleaser. Pair them with a simple dip, like tzatziki, or serve them alongside a Greek salad for a delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup grated kasseri or graviera cheese (or mozzarella if unavailable)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
• 2 tablespoons flour (for dusting)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil, for frying

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, grated kasseri (or graviera), and fresh parsley. Add the egg, breadcrumbs, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until fully combined. The mixture should be thick but easy to shape into croquettes.
2. Take small portions of the cheese mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into small cylindrical or ball shapes, about 1-1.5 inches in length. You can lightly dust your hands with flour to prevent sticking.
3. Once all the croquettes are shaped, roll them in breadcrumbs to coat evenly. Ensure the entire surface is covered with breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior.
4. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
5. Fry the croquettes in batches, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the croquettes from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve hot with a side of tzatziki, a fresh Greek salad, or simply on their own.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Herb variations: Add fresh mint, dill, or basil to the filling for a different flavor profile. These herbs pair wonderfully with the tanginess of the feta.
• Different cheese options: You can experiment with different cheeses such as ricotta, cream cheese, or even cheddar for a unique twist. Make sure to use a firm cheese that melts well.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chopped chili pepper to the filling for a bit of heat.
• Baked version: For a lighter alternative, bake the croquettes at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Tirokroketes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the croquettes in a hot oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until crispy again.

FAQs

Can I make Tirokroketes in advance?

Yes, Tirokroketes can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. You can also freeze them before frying. When ready to cook, fry from frozen or after refrigerating for 10-15 minutes.

Can I use a different cheese for the filling?

While feta is the traditional cheese for Tirokroketes, you can experiment with other cheeses like ricotta, mozzarella, or cream cheese. However, make sure the cheese is firm enough to hold the croquettes together.

How do I keep the croquettes crispy?

To maintain the crispy texture, make sure to coat the croquettes well in breadcrumbs and fry them in hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and make the croquettes soggy.

Can I make Tirokroketes without breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, panko, or even ground nuts as a substitute to achieve a similar crispy exterior.

Can I fry Tirokroketes in advance?

It’s best to fry Tirokroketes just before serving, but you can fry them in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and reheat them in the oven to restore their crispness.

Can I make these croquettes without eggs?

Eggs help bind the filling and provide structure. If you’re making these for a vegan or egg-free diet, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) or a tablespoon of chickpea flour mixed with water as a substitute.

How do I know when the Tirokroketes are done frying?

The Tirokroketes should be golden brown on all sides. Test one croquette by cutting it in half to ensure the filling is melted and warm inside.

What can I serve with Tirokroketes?

Tirokroketes are delicious on their own or served with dips like tzatziki, hummus, or a fresh Greek yogurt dip. Pair them with a side of Greek salad for a complete meal or snack.

Can I bake Tirokroketes?

Yes, for a lighter version, you can bake the croquettes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I freeze Tirokroketes?

Yes, you can freeze Tirokroketes before frying. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to fry, cook from frozen.

Conclusion

Tirokroketes are a fantastic Greek snack that combines the richness of cheese with the crunch of a perfectly fried crust. These cheese croquettes are a crowd-pleaser, and their simplicity makes them easy to prepare for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer, part of a larger meze platter, or as a delicious snack, Tirokroketes will transport you to the flavors of Greece with every crispy bite. Try them at your next gathering, and they’ll surely become a favorite!

Tirokroketes: Greek Cheese Croquettes

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Tirokroketes are crispy Greek cheese croquettes filled with a creamy cheese mixture, often made with feta and other cheeses. These bite-sized treats are perfect as an appetizer or snack and are always a crowd-pleaser.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Appetizer, Snack
• Method: Fried
• Cuisine: Greek
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
2. ½ cup grated kasseri or graviera cheese (or mozzarella if unavailable)
3. 1 large egg
4. 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
5. 1 tablespoon olive oil
6. ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
7. 2 tablespoons flour (for dusting)
8. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
9. 1/2 teaspoon salt
10. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
11. Olive oil, for frying

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta, grated kasseri (or graviera), and fresh parsley. Add the egg, breadcrumbs, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined. The mixture should be thick but easy to shape into croquettes.

1. Take small portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into small cylindrical or ball shapes, about 1-1.5 inches long. Lightly dust your hands with flour to prevent sticking.
2. Once all croquettes are shaped, roll them in breadcrumbs to coat evenly, ensuring a crispy exterior.
3. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
4. Fry the croquettes in batches, turning occasionally to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. Fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the croquettes from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve hot with tzatziki, a Greek salad, or on their own as a snack.

Notes

• These croquettes can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day, or frozen before frying. Fry from frozen when ready to cook.
• For a healthier option, you can bake the croquettes at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• If you prefer, you can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, panko, or ground nuts for a different texture.
• Experiment with different herbs like mint, dill, or basil for unique flavor profiles.
• If you’re making these for a vegan or egg-free diet, you can use a flax egg or chickpea flour as a substitute for the egg.
• For the best crispy texture, don’t overcrowd the pan while frying.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 croquette
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 35mg