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Lana Mihajlović posted an update
Level:
Sous Chef
Ham Croquette
#CroquetaChallenge
Until now, croquettes meant only one thing to me—those made with mashed potatoes. But then, Scoolinary Academy challenged me to broaden my horizons and revealed that I had been living in a delusion. Chef Chema Soler introduced me to the world of Spanish croquettes—creamy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and far more sophisticated than I ever imagined they could be.
Challenge accepted! First, I dived into an intense late-night study session. While others slept, I was up at midnight learning about roux, creamy textures, and perfect breading, trying to absorb every trick before sleep or my first morning coffee caught up with me.
As soon as I mastered the theory, I rushed out to get the ingredients—because when a culinary euphoria hits, there’s no waiting.
Then came the real challenge: Ham Croquettes. I sautéed onions in butter, made a roux (which, in culinary terms, means “I stirred until I started doubting myself”), then added milk, broth, ham, balsamic vinegar, and soy sauce. Stirring the mixture after adding the milk and broth led me to discover a brand-new fitness program for my biceps. Had I known my arm would give up on me, I might have warmed up first. In this case, my sous-chef (read husband), now officially titled the Strongest Biceps in the House—stepped in to help.
After finally taming the mixture and leaving them in the fridge for 12 hours, I could hardly wait for the chilling time to be over. I even set an alarm, and when it rang, I jumped like a cat hitting the ceiling.
I started breading the croquettes, carefully rolling them through flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Chef Chema said his croquettes talk to him. Well, if they whisper to him, maybe they’ll say something to me too? I sharpened all my senses and realized they weren’t talking to me—they were arguing among themselves:
“Hey, move over a bit! We all have the right to be fried evenly!”
“Who let out so many bubbles? I’m trying to maintain my dignity here!”
“Oh, look at Mr. ‘Perfect Sphere’ showing off! So what if you’re symmetrical? Crispiness is what really matters!”
After the screaming in the fryer was over, it was time for the little troublemakers to be served on plates.
Chef Chema paired his croquettes with cream cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, but I decided to infuse some Serbian spirit into this Spanish story.
Urnebes (eng. Hilarity, or Mayham, or just simple Hoopla 😂) —a mix of feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, crushed red pepper, and a touch of ajvar—was my choice because if something is meant to be spread alongside croquettes, it should have character.
And the best part? The croquettes were enjoyed by my neighbors as well—even though their biceps didn’t do any work, their facial muscles were certainly engaged from all the smiling. So, in our own way, we all got stronger while enjoying a moment worth remembering.
Today, I’m embarking on a new croquette adventure. Stay tuned! 👩🍳
Beatriz Piedras, Mohammad Inayath Mulla and 10 others22 Comments-
Level:
Executive Chef
I do not know what I like more, if your croquettes that are saying: “Eat me” or your story that has led me to evade for a moment of my problems leaving a big smile on my face.
My most sincere congratulations for this post and for those wonderful croquettes of yours that although they didn’t talk to you, they did talk to each other.
Thank you Lana for sharing. As we say in Andalucia, Óle tú👏👏❤😍.
By the way, great pictures!
Level:
Executive Chef
No sé que me gusta más, si tus croquetas que están diciendo: “Cómeme” ó tu relato que me ha llevado a evadirme por un momento de mis problemas saliendo una gran sonrisa en mi cara.
Mi mas sincera enhorabuena por este post y por esas maravillosas croquetas tuyas que aunque no te hablaron a ti, si lo hicieron entre ellas.
Gracias Lana por compartir. Como decimos en Andalucia, Óle tú👏👏❤😍
Por cierto, unas fotografias de 10!
1a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Sous Chef
@Maloles Muñoz Thank you so much for your beautiful words! I’m truly happy that my croquettes and story could bring a smile to your face, even if just for a moment. And I absolutely love the idea that they were secretly chatting—perhaps gossiping about who would be the first to disappear!
If my croquettes could reply, I’m sure they’d say: Gracias, we lived a short but delicious life!
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Wow, what a story!!! Very enjoyable text and delicious croquettes. I’m sure of that because that recipe it’s gorgeous. 🤤
Beautiful pictures, and very happy neighbors!
Wow, what a story!!! Very enjoyable text and deliciuos croquetas. I’m sure of that because that recipe it’s gorgeous. 🤤
Beautiful pictures, and very happy neighbors!
1a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Sous Chef
@Carlos Sancho Gomez Thank you so much 🥰 I put all my love in this croquettes ☺️
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@lanamihajlovic I’m your fan…thanks for sharing 😍
@lanamihajlovic soy tu fan… gracias por compartir 😍
2a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Scoolinary Team
What a fantastic way to bring us into the kitchen with you!
It’s amazing how you make every step feel like an adventure, drawing us into the story as if we were right there cooking alongside you. You’re an exceptional storyteller,your attention to detail captivates us, and beyond your vivid descriptions, your croquettes’ presentation is truly impressive.
The effort and passion in every step are undeniable, from the meticulous roux to the patient 12-hour resting time. Pairing them with Urnebes is a brilliant twist that adds a unique and personal touch.
We’re sure that Chef Chema Solier would love to hear about your wonderfully narrative and engaging process, and how this course has been both an inspiration and a learning experience for you.
Not only did you captivate us with your storytelling, but you also left us in awe with your presentation.
We can’t wait for your next croquette adventure! ♥️
Level:
Scoolinary Team
What a fantastic way to bring us into the kitchen with you!
It’s amazing how you make every step feel like an adventure, drawing us into the story as if we were right there cooking alongside you. You’re an exceptional storyteller,your attention to detail captivates us, and beyond your vivid descriptions, your croquettes’ presentation is truly impressive.
The effort and passion in every step are undeniable, from the meticulous roux to the patient 12-hour resting time. Pairing them with Urnebes is a brilliant twist that adds a unique and personal touch.
We’re sure that Chef Chema Solier would love to hear about your wonderfully narrative and engaging process, and how this course has been both an inspiration and a learning experience for you.
Not only did you captivate us with your storytelling, but you also left us in awe with your presentation.We can’t wait for your next croquette adventure!♥️
1a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Sous Chef
@sussan_scoolinaryteam Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words! 🤩 Your comment truly made my day! Cooking, for me, is not just about the flavors but also about the stories behind each dish, so it means a lot to hear that you felt drawn into the process.
The 12-hour resting time was definitely a test of patience, but seeing the final result made it all worth it! And I’m so glad you liked the Urnebes pairing—it was my little way of adding a personal touch to the classic. 😊
Chef Chema Solier has been such an inspiration throughout this journey, and I’d love to share this experience with him. Thank you again for your support and encouragement! Can’t wait to bring you along on my next croquette adventure! 🔥
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Level:
Executive Chef
Lana, your stories deserve to be framed. The late night study, the culinary euphoria, the fitness program, the ‘sous chef’ husband, the cat jump, the discussion between croquettes… in short, I can only applaud you. 👏
But there is something more important. I, and I’m sure most Spaniards, grew up eating croquettes… (alas, those croquettes from mothers), we make them frequently and it’s one of the dishes we order the most when we go out to eat out. That’s why, to see an immersion in Spanish culture like the one you demonstrate, is exciting.
Of course, I loved that for the accompaniment you wanted to look for identity and that Serbian spirit.
In short, hats off to you. 🙌
And in fair correspondence with my ‘sister taste’ I’m going to do a little immersion in Serbian gastronomy to see if I dare with some specialty ☺.Level:
Executive Chef
Lana, tus historias merecen ser enmarcadas. El estudio nocturno, la euforia culinaria, el programa de fitness, el ‘sous chef’ marido, el salto de gato, la discusión entre croquetas… en fin, no puedo sino aplaudirte. 👏
Pero hay algo más importante. Yo, y seguro que la mayoría de españoles, nos hemos criado comiendo croquetas… (ay, esas croquetas de las madres), las hacemos con frecuencia y es uno de los platos que más pedimos cuando salimos a comer fuera. Por eso, ver una inmersión en la cultura española como la que demuestras, es emocionante.
Eso sí, me ha encantado que para el acompañamiento hayas querido buscar identidad y ese espíritu serbio.
En suma, me quito el sombrero. 🙌
Y en justa correspondencia con mi ‘sister taste’ voy a hacer un poco de inmersión en la gastronomía serbia a ver si me atrevo con alguna especialidad ☺
2a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Sous Chef
@Beatriz Torija Thank you for your kind words! It’s always a pleasure to explore and immerse myself in different cultures, whether through food, stories, legends, or everyday moments. For me, that’s the best way to understand the soul of a nation—to experience its scents, flavors, and way of life.
Every culture carries its own richness, and despite our differences, I believe the most valuable part of it all is the exchange—learning from one another, embracing new perspectives, and connecting through what makes us unique.
My sister has been living in Spain for ten years, and she was thrilled when she heard I was making croquettes. And that’s what I love about food—it’s a bridge that brings people together, no matter where they are.
Of course, I couldn’t help but mention Serbia—everyone who visits always says that the best part of the experience is the Serbian people, followed closely by the food. Whoever comes here inevitably leaves with a few extra kilos! 😉
If you ever decide to explore Balkan cuisine, I’m always here to help with advice—I’d be happy to assist! ❤️
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Level:
Executive Chef
@lanamihajlovic How right you are. Getting to know different cultures through their flavors, ingredients and dishes is always a joy. Around a table, there are always meeting points, even if we don’t even understand each other or speak a common language. I love traveling and getting to know different cuisines. But to be honest, Balkan cuisine is a great unknown to me. I’m going to dive a little and read something… and no doubt I’ll consult you😍.
Level:
Executive Chef
@lanamihajlovic Cuánta razón tienes. Conocer diferentes culturas a través de sus sabores, sus ingredientes y sus platos es siempre una gozada. Alrededor de una mesa, siempre hay puntos de encuentro, aunque ni siquiera nos entendamos ni hablemos un idioma común. Me fascina viajar y conocer gastronomías diferentes. Pero si te soy sincera, la cocina de los Balcanes es una gran desconocida para mí. Voy a bucear un poco y leer algo… y no te quepa duda de que te consultaré😍
1a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Scoolinary Team
@beatriztorijagmail-com What a luxury it would be to witness this culinary dialogue!
Level:
Scoolinary Team
@beatriztorijagmail-com ¡Qué lujo seria presenciar este diálogo culinario!
1a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Executive Chef
@soldamiani that’s done!!!!😎
Level:
Executive Chef
@soldamiani eso está hecho!!!!😎
a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Executive Chef
Good explanation and better croquettes.
Level:
Executive Chef
Buena explicación y mejores croquetas.
1a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Sous Chef
@Antonio Salvador Moreno Carretero Thank you 🤗
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Level:
Sous Chef
I love them. I loved reading you and you made me smile with the discussions of your croquettes. I also really like that you gave them your personal touch with their accompaniment. Very nice work
Level:
Sous Chef
Me encantan. Me ha encantado leerte y me has hecho sonreír con las discusiones de tus croquetas. También me gusta mucho que les hayas dado tu toque personal con su acompañamiento. Muy buen trabajo
1a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Sous Chef
@Mercedes Delgado de Miguel Thank you dear ❤️ I’m glad you enjoyed it, but also that my text made you laugh. 🤗
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Level:
Scoolinary Team
Let’s go step by step.
First: Me reading this post👇Level:
Scoolinary Team
Let’s go step by step.
First: Me reading this post👇
1a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Sous Chef
@soldamiani This comment made me cry with laughter. Now I can’t stop imagining you peeking out from behind some leaves. 😂
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a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Scoolinary Team
Then: You had me 100% hooked on every word! I had a similar revelation last July when I first tried croquettes like these. Here in Argentina, we also grew up knowing croquettes as potato-based, but these? They’re a whole different dish-next-level indulgence!
Your storytelling was as rich as that roux you tirelessly stirred (seriously, biceps day at the gym has nothing on croquette-making!). Your choice to pair them with Urnebes is genius-feta, garlic, ajvar? Sounds like a fiery, tangy twist that could stand up to the creamy croquettes beautifully. Did you find that the Urnebes balanced the richness or gave it an extra punch of flavor?
I’d love to see more of your croquette adventures-don’t forget to share your next batch and tag us @scoolinary_en and Chef @chemasoler_chef! 🔥👏
Level:
Scoolinary Team
Then: You had me 100% hooked on every word! I had a similar revelation last July when I first tried croquetas like these. Here in Argentina, we also grew up knowing croquettes as potato-based, but these? They’re a whole different dish—next-level indulgence!
Your storytelling was as rich as that roux you tirelessly stirred (seriously, biceps day at the gym has nothing on croquette-making!). Your choice to pair them with Urnebes is genius—feta, garlic, ajvar? Sounds like a fiery, tangy twist that could stand up to the creamy croquettes beautifully. Did you find that the Urnebes balanced the richness or gave it an extra punch of flavor?
I’d love to see more of your croquette adventures—don’t forget to share your next batch and tag us @scoolinary_en and Chef @chemasoler_chef! 🔥👏
1a year agoTranslated from Spanish
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Level:
Sous Chef
@soldamiani Wow, thank you so much for such a warm and thoughtful comment! 😊 I love that you had a similar revelation; it’s incredible how a dish can completely redefine our expectations. And yes, croquette-making definitely counts as an arm workout—no gym membership required! 😂
Urnebes was the perfect match! It added just the right amount of heat and tang to cut through the richness, making each bite even more exciting. I’d say it both balanced and enhanced the flavors at the same time!
I’ll definitely keep the croquette adventures coming—season 3 is in the works! 😉🔥 Thanks again for your kind words and support! 💞
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