Goan "meatless" Croquettes - baked or fried

Lightly spiced beef croquettes are a popular snack and appetiser among the Christian communities in Goa and Kerala - Wikipedia
A list of Goan appetizers will surely include beef croquettes.  A delicacy that many vegetarians may still enjoy in this meatless version made with canned beans.  The secret to a good croquette is the smoothness of the meat in the dish because it has to be ground fine.  The other secret is the use of fresh ginger, garlic, green chili and lime juice. These cannot be substituted if taste is to be retained.
I was happy that this experiment retained both these elements to give these croquettes an authentic Goan flavor. While I chose to bake these croquettes, you could shallow fry if you prefer.

Ingredients ( for 25 pieces)

1 (19 fluid ounce) can red kidney beans (black beans can be used as well)
1 large onion chopped
1 inch piece of ginger minced
4 large cloves garlic chopped
1 green chili minced
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
juice of 1 large lime
1 egg
1/2 cup chopped fresh coriander
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons desiccated coconut (fine)
1 cup of bread crumbs (approx)
semolina for coating croquettes

Method

The ingredients can be blended by hand or using a blender. When using a blender you will require more breadcrumbs so that the mixture is firm not soggy.   I used a blender.

Drain and rinse the beans. 

In a blender add the onions, ginger,garlic and chili.  Blend till minced.

Add the kidney beans, spices, egg, lime juice, coriander and blend till mixed and no lumps are seen.

Add the cheese, coconut and half the bread crumbs and blend.  Turn out into a bowl, and add the remaining breadcrumbs a little at a time until the mixture is firm when blended with a spoon.  If you feel that you need more breadcrumbs go ahead, but the mixture should not be dry, only firm and able to hold its shape.  Cover with plastic wrap and put into the fridge for about 1 hour.

When ready preheat the oven to 425F.  Line a baking tray with foil and spray with cooking oil.

Remove and form into rough logs about 1and half inches long.   Pour the semolina on a flat surface.

Roll the logs in the semolina to coat, and lay on the prepared baking tray.  Spray lightly with cooking oil.

Put in the oven for 20 minutes until browned.  Turn the croquettes over after 10 minutes and continue to bake.  Watch so they do not get too brown or burnt.

Approximate nutritional value per 1 croquette
calories 44.6/ total fat 1.3 g/ total carbohydrates 6.5 g/ protein 2g