Classic 80s Beef Croquettes with Rice

#### For the Beef Croquettes:
– **1 lb (450g) ground beef**
– **1 medium onion** (finely chopped)
– **2 cloves garlic** (minced)
– **1/2 cup breadcrumbs** (for the filling)
– **1/4 cup milk**
– **1 large egg** (for binding the croquette mixture)
– **1/2 teaspoon salt**
– **1/4 teaspoon black pepper**
– **1/4 teaspoon paprika** (optional, for extra flavor)
– **1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce** (for added richness)
– **1/2 cup all-purpose flour** (for coating)
– **1-2 eggs** (beaten, for dipping the croquettes)
– **1-2 cups breadcrumbs** (for coating)
– **Oil for frying** (vegetable oil or canola oil)

#### For the Rice:
– **1 cup long-grain white rice**
– **2 cups water or broth** (for cooking the rice)
– **1 tablespoon butter or oil**
– **1/2 teaspoon salt**

### Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic 80s Beef Croquettes with Rice

Making **Beef Croquettes with Rice** is an easy, step-by-step process that results in a delicious and satisfying meal. Let’s dive right into the recipe!

#### 1. **Prepare the Rice**
Start by cooking the rice. In a medium-sized pot, bring **2 cups of water** or broth to a boil. Add the **rice**, **butter or oil**, and **salt**. Stir to combine, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about **15-20 minutes**, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

#### 2. **Cook the Beef Filling for the Croquettes**
While the rice is cooking, heat a tablespoon of **oil** in a skillet over medium heat. Add the **chopped onion** and **minced garlic**, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

Next, add the **ground beef** to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat and return the beef mixture to the skillet. Stir in the **Worcestershire sauce**, **salt**, **pepper**, and **paprika** (if using). Add the **milk** and **breadcrumbs** to the beef mixture, stirring to combine. The breadcrumbs will help absorb the moisture and give the filling structure.

Let the mixture cool slightly before proceeding to the next step. This will make it easier to handle when forming the croquettes.

#### 3. **Shape the Croquettes**
Once the beef filling has cooled enough to handle, use your hands to shape the mixture into small oval or cylindrical croquettes, about 2-3 inches long. You should be able to make around 12-15 croquettes, depending on the size.

#### 4. **Coat the Croquettes**
Set up a breading station: In one shallow dish, place the **flour**. In another dish, beat the **eggs**. In a third dish, place the **breadcrumbs**. Dip each croquette first in the flour, then in the beaten egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.

#### 5. **Fry the Croquettes**
Heat about 1-2 inches of **oil** in a large frying pan over medium heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.

Carefully place the coated croquettes into the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the croquettes for about **3-4 minutes per side**, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

#### 6. **Serve the Croquettes with Rice**
Serve the crispy beef croquettes hot, alongside a generous portion of the fluffy rice you made earlier. You can garnish with a sprinkle of **parsley** or **chopped green onions** for a fresh touch. For extra flavor, serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as **ketchup**, **barbecue sauce**, or a simple **garlic mayo**.

### Tips for Perfect 80s Beef Croquettes with Rice

– **Let the filling cool**: Make sure the beef filling is slightly cooled before shaping the croquettes. This will help the mixture hold its shape better and prevent the croquettes from falling apart during frying.
– **Adjust the seasoning**: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can add a bit of cayenne pepper for heat or experiment with different herbs and spices.
– **Make ahead**: You can prepare the croquettes ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry. Just coat and bread them as instructed, then store in the fridge for up to 1-2 hours before cooking.
– **Use lean beef**: For a leaner version, opt for **lean ground beef** or even **ground turkey** as a substitute.
– **Deep fry for extra crispiness**: If you prefer an extra-crispy exterior, you can deep-fry the croquettes instead of shallow frying them in a pan. This method will give them a perfect golden crust.

### Why You’ll Love Classic 80s Beef Croquettes with Rice

The combination of crispy, golden croquettes filled with savory beef and paired with fluffy rice makes for a satisfying and delicious meal. This dish has all the flavors and textures that make comfort food so appealing, and it’s easy to make, too.

The crispy exterior of the croquettes contrasts perfectly with the tender, flavorful beef filling, while the rice serves as the perfect side to round out the meal. The rich and savory croquettes, paired with the fluffy rice, create a balanced and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.

If you’re looking to experience a piece of 80s nostalgia or simply craving a comforting meal, **Classic 80s Beef Croquettes with Rice** is the way to go. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!