Ingredients
Method
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Heat butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk for about 2 minutes until fragrant and nutty.
- Gradually add the warmed milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Stir in the cheese and Buldak sauce sachets. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Prepare the Noodles:
- Place noodles in a large bowl and cover with boiling water. Let them soften, then drain thoroughly.
- Snip the softened noodles into smaller pieces using scissors.
Combine Noodles and Sauce:
- Add the cheese sauce to the noodles, mix well, and transfer to a lined baking dish.
- Spread evenly and refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until the mixture is firm and set.
Shape the Croquettes:
- Once the mixture is chilled, cut it into even pieces. Take one portion, add a cube of mozzarella to the center, and shape it into an oval or ball, sealing the mozzarella inside.
Prepare the Batter and Dredging Station:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, water, egg, and salt to form a smooth batter.
- Set up a dredging station with separate bowls for breadcrumbs, flour, and batter.
Coat the Croquettes:
- Roll each croquette in flour, dip it into the batter, and then coat it thoroughly in breadcrumbs.
- Repeat for all croquettes and place them on a tray. Chill in the freezer for 20 minutes to firm up.
Fry the Croquettes:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan to 180°C (350°F).
- Carefully add croquettes to the oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
Serve:
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately with a generous drizzle or side of Japanese mayo.