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Pumpkin Curry Croquettes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 67 reviews
  • Author: Elina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 croquettes 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Japanese

Description

Delicious and crispy Pumpkin Curry Croquettes featuring a creamy kabocha squash and ground pork filling seasoned with fragrant curry powder and lightly fried to golden perfection. This easy-to-make recipe offers a comforting fusion of flavors perfect as an appetizer or snack.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz kabocha squash
  • 5 oz ground pork
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Seasoning Mix (A)

  • 2 tsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 tsp curry powder
  • 1/2 tsp sugar

Coating

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 1/2 inch deep)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Kabocha and Pork: Remove the seeds and pulp from the kabocha squash, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and microwave it at 600W for 2 minutes. Cut the cooked squash into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Add the ground pork, breaking it up lightly, then season with salt and pepper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and microwave the mixture at 600W for 5 minutes to cook partially.
  2. Mix and Season the Filling: Add the unsalted butter, curry powder, and sugar (labeled as ingredients A) to the bowl with the cooked squash and pork. Use a potato masher to mash and mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined and creamy. Taste the filling and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
  3. Shape the Croquettes: Divide the filling into 6 equal portions and shape each into a round patty about 3/4-inch thick. Coat each patty lightly in all-purpose flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally cover evenly with panko bread crumbs for a crispy exterior.
  4. Fry the Croquettes: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully add the croquettes and fry for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even golden brown color on all sides. Remove and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  5. Serve: Serve the pumpkin curry croquettes hot as a savory snack or appetizer. Enjoy their creamy, flavorful filling paired with a crisp coating.

Notes

  • Don’t worry if the pork isn’t fully cooked after microwaving—it will finish cooking as you mix and fry.
  • Always taste the filling before shaping and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
  • Since the filling is pre-cooked, frying is only needed until the coating turns golden brown for optimal texture.