Hats Off to this Unique Sandwich

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

02 Sep 2008 02:31 PM

Much like the high calorie Horseshoe sandwich, this next double fisted treat comes with a unique story. A Croque-Monsieur is a popular sandwich in France and is served in restaurants around the world. Its name translates to "Crispy Mister," and it's basically a fancy grilled ham and cheese sandwich (though, I'm sure it's French creator wouldn't take kindly to that description).

Its female counterpart is called a Croque-Madame and is similar to the Croque-Monsieur only it includes a fried egg on top. A celebrity chef on the Food Network claims it's named as much because the egg looks like a lady's hat. Makes sense to me.

Similar to the meat and cheese monstrosity that is the Horseshoe sandwich, the Croque-Monsieur boasts an artery-clogging amount of fat. Of course, the sandwich's irresistible flavor is what prompts people to risk a heart attack. If you are feeling daring you can make a Croque-Monsieur at home. But, be warned it's not as simple as slapping together a traditional grilled ham and cheese sandwich. You'll have to shell out for Gruyere cheese and make a Bechamel Sauce, which takes additional effort. Still, your time and energy will be rewarded in the end.

CROQUE-MONSIEUR

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

8 slices high-quality bread, sliced 1/3- to 1/2-inch thick

12 ounces thickly sliced high-quality ham

10 ounces Gruyere cheese, coarsely grated

Ingredients for Bechamel Sauce:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup flour

3 cups whole milk

Pinch nutmeg

Salt and white pepper, to taste

Directions:

To make sauce: Melt butter over low heat and whisk in flour until blended. Gradually whisk in milk and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 10 minutes. Season to taste with nutmeg, salt and pepper.

Assembly: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and brush with melted butter.

Spread each bread slice to edges with sauce. Place ham on four of the slices. Top all the slices with cheese. Place the 4 slices with just sauce and cheese on top of the slices layered with ham, cheese side up. Transfer sandwiches, cheese side up, onto sheet pan. Bake until cheese topping is melted and golden, 10 to 15 minutes.

Serves 4.

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Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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