Serrano Ham and Manchego Cheese Croquettes - Essay Example

Manchego cheese on the other hand is also derived from Spain, specifically the La Mancha region (Manchego Cheese, 1). This cheese is produced by combining sheep’s milk and bread and allowing it to cure for some time.

The final component of this particular dish is that of the croquettes. The observer quickly notes that this word is spelled in French form. There exists a nearly identical offering in traditional Spanish cuisine; however, it is usually referred to as croquetas. In this way, the observer notes that a particular French influence over this particular dish is noted. As it is impossible to distinctly know what may be French about the way that the dish is prepared until it is sampled, this analysis will await a determination based upon that time.

This particular dish is unique in that it is one of the few “fusion” dishes that exist on the menu. As such, the origin of the ingredients that make up this particular dish is not entirely and/or uniquely Spanish. Furthermore, until the dish is sampled it will be difficult to say with certainty whether the specific origin of the components of the dish. It is also interesting to note that “croquettes” are a dish that is enjoyed by over 18 different countries and a variety of different ethnicities. As it is such a widespread dish, it makes a great deal more sense as to why the dish could borrow the French version without necessarily losing the meaning or adulterating the level of the ethnic food offered. In this way, although it is a unique ethnic dish, it has the flair of universality that gives it a particular appeal even to those that may not have a great deal of experience ordering from an ethnically Spanish menu.

Lastly, the dish appears to be a very simple yet tasty dish. The ingredients involved in its preparation include ham, cheese, and mashed potatoes rolled in a batter and deep-fried.  As such, this dish was very much the dish of the common peasant. One could even go so far as to call this the grilled cheese sandwich of the old world. Moreover, because it does not incorporate spices to any degree, the dish is typical of what one might consider “Old World food”.