Tuna croquettes mixed with onions and herbs in a creamy sauce then rolled in panko and deep fried can be made as a main course or scaled down and served as hor d'oeuvres.
1. In a medium saucepan heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it is hot add the onion and saute for 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic. Add 1/2 cup of flour and reduce heat to low. Whisk constantly until the flour is lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes
3. Slowly stir in the milk and cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture is smooth and begins thickening. This will take 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the tuna, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, half the salt, and half the pepper.
5. Pour into a mixing bowl and let cool 10 minutes. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours or up to 2 days.
6. Remove the mixture from the refrigerate and roll into 2 inch balls (about 12). Flatten and place on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Freeze for 30 minutes.
7. Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet or Dutch oven so that it is at least 1 inch deep. Heat over medium high heat.
8. Meanwhile, beat the eggs in a shallow bowl. Place the panko in another bowl and the remaining flour seasoned with remaining salt and pepper in a third bowl.
9. Dredge the frozen croquettes in the flour mixture, dip into the egg, and then roll in the panko.
10. Place in the hot oil and fry for 2 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel lined plate to drain.
11. Sprinkle with salt and serve with lemon wedges.