The California Avocado Monte Cristo

California Avocado Monte Cristo Recipe - Delicious Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The California Avocado Monte Cristo is a delicious twist on the classic Monte Cristo sandwich, featuring creamy avocado and savory turkey. This recipe is perfect for a special brunch or lunch, and is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavors.

History

The Monte Cristo sandwich is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It is a variation of the French croque-monsieur, a grilled ham and cheese sandwich. The addition of turkey and cheese, as well as the sweet and savory flavors, make the Monte Cristo a popular choice for many.

Ingredients

6 beaten eggs
0.33 cup milk
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves finely chopped garlic
8 slices of firm white sandwich bread
2 sliced california avocados
8 one-ounce slices of roasted chicken or turkey
4 one-ounce slices of jalapeno jack cheese
0.25 cup unsalted butter
1 cup fruit salsa
4 optional fresh cilantro sprigs

How to prepare

In a bowl, beat together eggs, milk, and salt. Set aside.
Mix mayonnaise with garlic.
Spread 0.5 tbsp of the garlic mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread.
Cover 4 slices of bread with avocado slices; top each with 2 slices of chicken or turkey and 1 slice of cheese.
Cover each sandwich with the remaining slice of bread, with the spread side facing down.
Cut each sandwich diagonally in half and set aside.
In a large frying pan, melt 2 tbsp of butter.
Meanwhile, dip 4 sandwich halves in the beaten egg mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
Brown the dipped sandwich halves in the hot butter, approximately 2 minutes per side.
Repeat the previous step with the remaining sandwich halves.
Serve each sandwich with 0.25 cup of salsa.
Garnish with a sprig of cilantro.

Variations

Substitute the turkey with ham or bacon for a different flavor.
Add a slice of tomato or lettuce for extra freshness.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to beat the eggs well to ensure a light and fluffy coating on the sandwich.

- Use firm white sandwich bread for the best texture and flavor.

- Be careful not to overcook the sandwich, as the cheese should be melted and the bread golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Serve The California Avocado Monte Cristo with a side salad or fresh fruit for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the eggs well ensures a light and fluffy coating on the sandwich.

- Browning the sandwich in butter adds a rich and savory flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole wheat bread for a healthier option.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter spread.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sandwiches ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. Just dip them in the egg mixture and brown them in butter before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve The California Avocado Monte Cristo on a platter with a drizzle of salsa and a sprig of fresh cilantro for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair The California Avocado Monte Cristo with a glass of iced tea or a crisp white wine for a refreshing combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of The California Avocado Monte Cristo contains approximately 450 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of The California Avocado Monte Cristo contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of The California Avocado Monte Cristo contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of The California Avocado Monte Cristo contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

The California Avocado Monte Cristo is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, milk, wheat, and soy. It may also contain traces of nuts.

Summary

The California Avocado Monte Cristo is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

The California Avocado Monte Cristo is a delicious and satisfying sandwich that is perfect for any meal. With its creamy avocado, savory turkey, and gooey cheese, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a warm summer day in California, and I had decided to take a leisurely stroll through the farmer's market in search of some fresh ingredients for dinner. As I perused the various stalls, my eyes landed on a display of plump, ripe avocados. The vendor was a friendly older gentleman who eagerly shared with me his favorite way to enjoy avocados - a California Avocado Monte Cristo.

Intrigued by the sound of this unique dish, I asked the vendor for the recipe. He chuckled and said it was a family secret, but he was willing to share it with me since he could see the twinkle of curiosity in my eyes. I eagerly scribbled down the ingredients and method on a scrap of paper, thanking him profusely before heading home to try it out.

As I gathered the ingredients and got to work in the kitchen, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The combination of creamy avocado, savory ham, and gooey cheese sandwiched between two slices of golden-brown French toast sounded like a flavor explosion waiting to happen. And oh, how right I was.

The first bite of the California Avocado Monte Cristo sent my taste buds into a frenzy. The buttery richness of the avocado paired perfectly with the salty ham and melted cheese, all encased in a crispy, golden crust of French toast. It was a culinary masterpiece, and I knew immediately that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

Over the years, I have made the California Avocado Monte Cristo countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness. Other times, I experiment with different types of cheese or swap out the ham for bacon. But no matter how I choose to customize it, the dish always brings a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover this delicious recipe, I am reminded of all the other culinary treasures I have collected over the years. Each recipe holds a story, a memory, a connection to someone or something special. Whether it's the spaghetti sauce recipe my mother passed down to me, or the chocolate chip cookie recipe I learned from my best friend in college, each dish carries with it a piece of my history.

And now, the California Avocado Monte Cristo has joined the ranks of my beloved recipes, a testament to the joy of discovering new flavors and sharing them with loved ones. I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all the people who have crossed my path and gifted me with their culinary knowledge. It is through these recipes, these stories, that I am able to keep their spirit alive in my kitchen, creating a tapestry of flavors that will continue to be woven for generations to come.

So here I am, a grandmother with a passion for cooking and a treasure trove of recipes passed down through the years. And as I prepare another batch of California Avocado Monte Cristo for my family to enjoy, I can't help but smile and think to myself, "What delicious adventure will I stumble upon next?"