Croque Monsieur

Croque Monsieur Recipe - French Sandwich with Ham and Cheese

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Croque Monsieur is a classic French sandwich that is perfect for a quick and delicious meal. This sandwich is made with ham, cheese, and bread, and is typically topped with a creamy cheese sauce. It is a popular choice for brunch or lunch, and is sure to satisfy your cravings for something savory and comforting.

History

The Croque Monsieur is believed to have originated in France in the early 20th century. It is said to have been created as a quick and easy snack for workers in Parisian cafes. The name "Croque Monsieur" translates to "crunchy mister" in English, which refers to the crispy texture of the sandwich when it is toasted or grilled.

Ingredients

2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups hot milk
1 tsp kosher salt
0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Pinch of nutmeg
12 oz (340 g) gruyere, grated (5 cups)
0.5 cup freshly grated parmesan
16 slices white sandwich bread, crusts removed
dijon mustard
8 oz (227 g) baked Virginia ham, sliced but not paper thin

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Melt the butter over low heat in a small saucepan and add the flour all at once, stirring with a wooden spoon for 2 minutes.
Slowly pour the hot milk into the butter-flour mixture and cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce is thickened.
Off the heat, add the salt, pepper, nutmeg, 0.5 cup grated Gruyere, and the Parmesan and set aside.
To toast the bread, place the slices on 2 baking sheets and bake for 5 minutes.
Turn each slice and bake for another 2 minutes, until toasted.
Lightly brush half of the toasted breads with mustard, add a slice of ham to each, and sprinkle with half of the remaining Gruyere.
Top with another piece of toasted bread.
Slather the tops with the cheese sauce, sprinkle with the remaining Gruyere, and bake the sandwiches for 5 minutes.
Turn on the broiler and broil for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and lightly browned.
Serve hot.

Variations

Croque Madame: Add a fried or poached egg on top of the sandwich to make it a Croque Madame.
Croque Provencal: Add sliced tomatoes and basil to the sandwich for a fresh and flavorful twist.
Croque Hawaiian: Add a slice of pineapple and a drizzle of teriyaki sauce for a tropical twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a good quality ham and cheese for the best flavor.

- Toasting the bread before assembling the sandwich helps to prevent it from becoming soggy.

- Make sure to evenly distribute the cheese sauce on top of the sandwich to ensure that each bite is deliciously cheesy.

Serving Suggestions

Croque Monsieur can be served with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the bread before assembling the sandwich helps to create a crispy texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Swiss cheese or cheddar cheese instead of Gruyere.

- Turkey or chicken can be used instead of ham for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheese sauce and assemble the sandwiches ahead of time, then bake them just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Croque Monsieur on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Croque Monsieur pairs well with a glass of white wine or a cup of hot tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Croque Monsieur is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Croque Monsieur contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Croque Monsieur contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Croque Monsieur contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Croque Monsieur contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Croque Monsieur is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

Croque Monsieur contains dairy, gluten, and pork.

Summary

Croque Monsieur is a delicious and satisfying sandwich that is rich in fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. It is a great source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Croque Monsieur is a classic French sandwich that is easy to make and delicious to eat. With a crispy exterior, gooey cheese, and savory ham, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it for brunch, lunch, or dinner for a satisfying and comforting meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Croque Monsieur. It was a sunny afternoon in Paris, and I was wandering through the bustling streets, taking in all the sights and sounds of the city. I had always been drawn to French cuisine, with its rich flavors and decadent ingredients, so when I stumbled upon a quaint little bistro that was famous for its Croque Monsieur, I knew I had to try it.

As I stepped into the cozy bistro, the aroma of melting cheese and toasted bread wafted through the air, making my mouth water. I settled into a table by the window and ordered the famous sandwich, eager to taste the magic of this French classic. When the waiter brought out the Croque Monsieur, I was immediately struck by its beauty - golden brown and crispy on the outside, oozing with gooey cheese and savory ham on the inside.

With my first bite, I was transported to another world. The combination of the buttery bread, the salty ham, and the creamy béchamel sauce was pure perfection. I savored every bite, not wanting the experience to end. As I finished the last crumb, I knew that I had to learn how to make this delicious dish for myself.

I struck up a conversation with the chef, a charming Frenchman named Henri, who had been making Croque Monsieur for decades. I asked him if he would be willing to teach me his secret recipe, and to my delight, he agreed. Henri took me under his wing and showed me the ins and outs of making the perfect Croque Monsieur, from selecting the best ingredients to mastering the technique of layering and grilling.

Over the next few weeks, I spent countless hours in Henri's kitchen, soaking up his wisdom and honing my skills. I learned how to make the velvety béchamel sauce, how to source the finest ham and cheese, and how to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Henri was a patient teacher, guiding me through each step with a twinkle in his eye and a pinch of French flair.

As I practiced and perfected my technique, I began to experiment with different variations of the classic Croque Monsieur. I added a touch of Dijon mustard for a hint of heat, swapped out the ham for smoked salmon for a luxurious twist, and even tried a vegetarian version with roasted vegetables and goat cheese. Each new iteration was a delight, and I found joy in sharing my creations with friends and family.

Years passed, and my love for Croque Monsieur only deepened. I continued to refine my recipe, incorporating new techniques and flavors that I had picked up along the way. I shared my passion for this beloved dish with anyone who would listen, hosting dinner parties and cooking classes to spread the joy of French cooking.

Now, as I sit here in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of melting cheese and toasting bread, I am filled with gratitude for the journey that led me to this moment. The recipe for Croque Monsieur holds a special place in my heart, not just for its delicious flavors, but for the memories of Paris, of Henri, and of the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

So the next time you're craving a taste of France, why not try your hand at making your own Croque Monsieur? With a little patience, a lot of love, and a sprinkle of French magic, you too can create a culinary masterpiece that will transport you to the streets of Paris with every delectable bite. Bon appétit!