Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into even chunks
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt divided
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 2 teaspoons neutral oil, for sautéing
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 16 ounces lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 2/3 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for deep-frying, enough for 2 inches deep
- Tonkatsu sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Place potatoes in a large pot with a pinch of salt and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until fork tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. On low heat, gently shake the pot to help evaporate any extra water. Transfer the potatoes to a bowl, add the butter along with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, and mash until mostly smooth but still a bit chunky.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with the neutral oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and lightly browned, about 8 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the onions. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until no pink remains. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Fold the cooked meat and onions into the mashed potatoes. Mix gently until combined.
- Divide the potato mixture into 8 equal portions. Carefully shape each into an oval patty about 3 inches long. Place the patties on a tray and chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to help them firm up.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each chilled patty in flour, dip in the egg, and then coat evenly with panko, pressing gently to help the crumbs adhere.
- Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F. Fry the patties in small batches, cooking about 2-3 minutes per side until the outside is golden brown and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Plate the hot croquettes and serve with tonkatsu sauce on the side for dipping.