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Minced Beef and Kumara Croquettes

Minced Beef and Kumara Croquettes

Gretel Shaw
These Minced Beef and Kumara Croquettes are inspired by the comforting flavors of traditional New Zealand cuisine, with a nod to European croquette craftsmanship. The natural sweetness of kumara (New Zealand sweet potato) beautifully balances the savory, spiced minced beef. Crisp on the outside and silky within, these croquettes make an elegant appetizer or a satisfying main, paired with a fresh salad or dipping sauce. A dish rich in texture and taste—perfect for entertaining or a weekend treat.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Fusion / Other
Servings 4 plates
Calories 2229 kcal

Equipment

Large sauté pan
Mixing Bowl
Mixing bowls
Potato masher or food mill
sharp knife
Cutting Board
Baking sheet
parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons
Small saucepan
Slotted spoon
Paper towels
Oil thermometer
Deep pan or fryer for frying

Ingredients
 
 

Croquette Mixture

  • Glass bowl of olive oil isolated on white background1 tablespoon olive oil - Extra virgin preferred
  • Ripe yellow onion on a white background1 small onion - Finely chopped
  • garlic2 cloves garlic - Minced
  • Raw meat mince1 pound ground beef (minced beef) - Grass-fed preferred
  • ground cumin½ teaspoon cumin - ground
  • Heap of dried coriander seed and ground coriander on white background½ teaspoon ground coriander
  •  
    ¼ teaspoon chilli flakes - Optional, for mild heat
  •  
    1 cup kumara - Boiled and mashed, orange-fleshed, about 2 medium kumaras
  • chicken egg1 large egg - Beaten
  • Cheddar cheese block, paths½ cup cheddar cheese - grated, sharp cheddar for flavor

Breading & Frying

  • Pile of flour isolated on white background1 cup all purpose flour (plain flour Australia and UK)
  • chicken egg2 large eggs - Beaten
  • Fine breadcrumbs, also breading or crispies in wooden bowl1.5 cups breadcrumbs - Panko for extra crunch
  •  
    3 cups neutral oil - For deep frying (e.g., canola or grapeseed)

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent and aromatic—about 5 minutes.
  • Add the minced beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula—about 8 minutes.
  • Sprinkle in cumin, coriander, and chilli flakes. Stir to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes to bring out the spices’ aroma. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Transfer the beef mixture to a large bowl. Allow it to cool slightly before mixing in the mashed kumara, beaten egg, and grated cheddar cheese. Mix until homogeneous.
  • Form the mixture into small oval croquettes (about the size of a ping pong ball), flattening slightly. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
  • Set up a breading station: flour on one plate, beaten eggs in a bowl, and breadcrumbs on another plate. Coat each croquette in flour, dip in egg, then roll in breadcrumbs. Place aside.
  • Heat the oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry croquettes in batches, 3–4 at a time, for about 2–3 minutes until crisp and golden. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to paper towels.

Notes

  • To make gluten-free, use GF flour and breadcrumbs.
  • Cheese can be replaced with feta for a saltier, creamy filling.
  • Add chopped parsley or thyme to the mash for herbal freshness.
  • For a stronger kumara flavor, try using purple or gold varieties.

Nutrition

Calories: 2229kcalCarbohydrates: 63gProtein: 37gFat: 205gSaturated Fat: 26gPolyunsaturated Fat: 50gMonounsaturated Fat: 122gTrans Fat: 2gCholesterol: 234mgSodium: 541mgPotassium: 635mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 5102IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 241mgIron: 7mg
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