Best 3 Classic Croque Monsieur Recipes
**Introducing the Classic Croque Monsieur and Its Variations**
A delectable combination of flavors and textures, the classic croque monsieur is a timeless French sandwich that has captured the hearts of food lovers worldwide. This article presents a collection of irresistible recipes that explore variations of this culinary masterpiece, each with its unique twist on the classic.
From the traditional croque monsieur, featuring layers of rich béchamel sauce, melted cheese, and savory ham, to the innovative croque madame, topped with a perfectly fried egg, these recipes offer a range of options to suit every palate. For vegetarians, the croque monsieur végétarien delights with a filling of grilled vegetables and creamy bechamel, while the croque monsieur au poulet et aux champignons offers a delightful combination of tender chicken and flavorful mushrooms.
Explore the secrets of preparing the perfect béchamel sauce, essential for achieving that luscious creamy texture. Discover the art of selecting the right cheese, whether it's Gruyère, Emmental, or a blend of both, to create that perfect golden-brown crust. And learn how to grill the sandwich to perfection, ensuring a crispy exterior and a molten, gooey interior.
These recipes provide step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and stunning photographs to guide you through the process of creating these mouthwatering croque monsieurs. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, you'll find everything you need to impress your family and friends with these culinary delights. So, prepare to embark on a delectable journey as we delve into the world of croque monsieur and its irresistible variations.
CLASSIC CROQUE MONSIEUR
Think of this classic French bistro sandwich as a ham and cheese sandwich, sent over the top with a Bechamel sauce. Rich, cheesy, and warm, you might just need a knife and fork! I like to make the Bechamel first, and have all the cheese grated, so the assembly goes quickly. Garnish with cornichons, if you like, and serve with a vegetable salad or simple soup.
Provided by Bibi
Time 45m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine milk and cream in a microwave-safe container and microwave on high power, about 90 seconds. The liquid should be warm to the touch.
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and keep stirring until all the flour is coated in butter, and the flour and butter begin to bubble, about 2 minutes. Gradually stir in warmed milk and cream and cook until sauce begins to thicken, stirring constantly. Continue stirring, until the sauce is thick and bubbly, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat and brown 4 pieces of bread on 1 side, about 4 minutes. Place browned bread on the prepared baking sheet, browned side down.
- Spread each piece of bread with Bechamel sauce, from edge to edge. Place two slices of deli ham on the Bechamel and top with 1/2 cup of grated Gruyere cheese. Place remaining bread slices on top of each sandwich and spread the top with Bechamel, from edge to edge. Sprinkle the top of each sandwich with 2 tablespoons grated Gruyere cheese and 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted, 5 to 7 minutes.
- Turn on the oven's broiler.
- Move baking sheet about 6 inches from the heat source and broil sandwiches until the top is bubbly and brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Watch carefully, to avoid scorching the parchment paper and burning the cheese. Allow the sandwiches to cool slightly, cut in half, and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 878.9 calories, Carbohydrate 38.7 g, Cholesterol 193.4 mg, Fat 60.6 g, Fiber 1.4 g, Protein 44.7 g, SaturatedFat 33.9 g, Sodium 1616.1 mg, Sugar 6 g
THE CLASSIC FRENCH BISTRO SANDWICH - CROQUE MONSIEUR
My two versions of this classic French café/bistro sandwich - oven baked for large quantities and ease.......or, the traditional frying pan/skillet method! You can always rely upon the French to add a certain "je ne sais quoi" to even the simplest food ...including the humble cheese and ham sandwich. The croque-monsieur (which becomes a croque-madame if you top it with a fried egg) is a great favourite in French cafés & bistros, and there are as many methods of crafting it as there are cafés! This one works for me. But, please be warned ... it's not for calorie-counters, the Cholesterol Police or those of a nervous disposition!!
Provided by French Tart
Categories Lunch/Snacks
Time 20m
Yield 4 Croque Monsieur, 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Spread the bread with some of the softened butter, make 4 sandwiches, each with one slice of ham and one slice of cheese. Press them firmly together.
- Beat the eggs with the water, add the salt and pepper to taste, and dip the sandwiches into the egg mixture, coating all sides well.
- Heat the rest of the butter in a heavy- bottomed frying pan/skillet, when it has melted and is very hot - but not brown, fry the sandwiches for about 5 - 8 minutes, turning once.
- Serve immediately.
- If you prefer, although it is not traditional, you may place the croque-monsieur into a very well-buttered baking pan and bake in a moderately hot oven - 175°C/350°F - turning once, for about 10 to 15 minutes. It is easier to prepare a larger number this way and keep them warm until you are ready to serve them.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 487.7, Fat 36.1, SaturatedFat 21, Cholesterol 184.8, Sodium 587.6, Carbohydrate 25.6, Fiber 1.2, Sugar 2.4, Protein 15.6
CLASSIC CROQUE MONSIEUR
Steps:
- 1. Place cheese and white wine in a double boilder and melt over hot water. 2. Working in batches, dip each piece of bread in melted butter and fry on both sides until golden. 3. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and saute the ham slices. 4. Spread 4 slices of bread with the melted cheese and top with ham and another bread slice.
Tips:
- Use high-quality bread: A sturdy bread like sourdough or brioche will hold up well to the fillings and prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.
- Butter your bread: Buttering the bread before grilling it will help it to brown evenly and give it a rich, buttery flavor.
- Use a good quality cheese: A melty cheese like Gruyère or Emmental will give the sandwich a gooey, decadent center.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When grilling the sandwiches, make sure to leave enough space between them so that they can cook evenly.
- Serve the sandwiches immediately: Croque monsieurs are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the pan.
Conclusion:
The croque monsieur is a classic French sandwich that is both delicious and easy to make. With its crispy bread, melted cheese, and savory ham, it's a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. Whether you're a fan of classic French cuisine or just looking for a new sandwich to try, the croque monsieur is sure to please.
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