Croquetas de Jamón in London: Why Spanish Croquetas Are So Creamy
Discover what makes Spanish Croquetas de Jamón different, why the centre is creamy, and where to try this classic tapas dish in London.
Croquetas de Jamón are one of the easiest tapas to understand and one of the hardest to stop eating: crisp outside, creamy inside and deeply savoury from Spanish ham.
They are also an ideal first tapas order because they sit comfortably beside almost everything else on the table.
What are Croquetas de Jamón?
Spanish croquetas are small breaded croquettes with a soft, creamy filling. Croquetas de Jamón add pieces of cured ham, giving the centre a salty, savoury flavour that contrasts with the crisp coating.
The important thing is texture. A good croqueta should not be a dense potato ball. The centre should feel creamy and soft while the outside stays golden and crisp.
Why are Spanish croquetas different?
In Spain, croquetas are traditionally built around a thick béchamel-style base rather than mashed potato. That is what gives them their characteristic creamy interior.
A useful first-tapas order
For two people, pair Croquetas de Jamón with Padrón Peppers, Gambas al Ajillo and Chorizo al Vino. You get four very different textures without the table feeling repetitive.
For something richer alongside the croquetas, try Chorizo al Vino. For something fresher, our Padrón Peppers guide explains why the blistered green peppers are such a useful contrast.
Where can you eat Croquetas de Jamón in London?
Croquetas de Jamón are a regular Jamon Jamon favourite and a natural part of a shared tapas meal at both our London restaurants.
Croquetas in Soho
At 3 Caxton Walk, Croquetas de Jamón are an easy choice before a West End show or as part of a longer night in Soho. Add a few quicker tapas if you are watching the clock, or stay for paella and an event downstairs.
Croquetas in Belsize Park
At 177 Haverstock Hill, croquetas fit naturally into a slower neighbourhood lunch or dinner. Order them early and build the table around whatever everyone wants next.
Come and try Croquetas de Jamón
Crisp outside, creamy inside and one of the easiest plates to put in the middle of the table.