Spiced Breadfruit Croquettes
CaribbeanSnack

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

These irresistible Spiced Breadfruit Croquettes showcase the versatility of breadfruit, a staple ingredient throughout the Caribbean islands. Boiled breadfruit is mashed and combined with vibrant seasonings including scallions, thyme, and Scotch bonnet pepper, then shaped into perfect rounds and pan-fried until golden and crispy. The exterior develops a satisfying crunch while the interior remains soft and fluffy with a subtle nutty flavor. Each bite delivers layers of Caribbean spice balanced with the mild, starchy breadfruit. These croquettes make an excellent appetizer, party food, or afternoon treat, and pair wonderfully with hot sauce or a cooling yogurt-based dip. They represent the ingenuity of Caribbean cooking, transforming simple ingredients into something truly special.

Instructions

step by step
0/8 done
  1. Peel and cube the breadfruit, removing the core. Place in a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 25-30 minutes until fork-tender. Drain thoroughly and let steam dry for 5 minutes.

  2. While breadfruit cooks, finely chop the scallions, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Remove seeds from pepper if you prefer less heat.

  3. Transfer the cooked breadfruit to a large mixing bowl and mash until mostly smooth with some texture remaining. Allow to cool for 10 minutes.

  4. Add the chopped scallions, garlic, Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, black pepper, salt, and paprika to the mashed breadfruit. Mix well until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

  5. Form the mixture into 16 equal-sized balls, then flatten slightly into patties about 1/2 inch thick. Place on a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.

  6. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want about 1/4 inch of oil in the pan.

  7. Working in batches, carefully place the croquettes in the hot oil without crowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until deep golden brown and crispy.

  8. Transfer cooked croquettes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy with your choice of dipping sauce.

Spiced Breadfruit Croquettes

5.0 (54)

Golden-crispy Caribbean breadfruit croquettes seasoned with aromatic island spices, served with a tangy dipping sauce. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings with authentic West Indian flavors.

medium
45 min
8 servings

Ingredients

0 of 9 checked

main

  • 2 pieces breadfruit, peeled and cubed

aromatics

  • 4 pieces scallions, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

spices

  • 1 pieces scotch-bonnet, seeded and minced
  • 2 teaspoons thyme, dried or fresh
  • 1 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoons paprika

for frying

  • 1/2 cups vegetable-oil

Chef Tips

expert advice
For the best texture, make sure the breadfruit is completely dry after boiling - excess moisture will make the croquettes fall apart.
If you cannot find breadfruit, you can substitute with green plantains or yams, though the flavor will differ.
Adjust the Scotch bonnet pepper to your heat preference - start with less if you are sensitive to spice.
These croquettes can be shaped ahead and refrigerated for up to 4 hours before frying.
For a healthier version, brush with oil and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve with mango chutney, garlic aioli, or traditional Caribbean pepper sauce for dipping.
Fresh breadfruit works best, but canned breadfruit can be used in a pinch - just drain very well.