Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 slices of white bread
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Add the nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Cook the béchamel sauce for about 5 minutes or until thickened.
7. Remove from heat and set aside.
8. On a baking sheet, place 4 slices of bread.
9. Top each slice with a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese.
10. Cover each sandwich with another slice of bread.
11. Spread the béchamel sauce over the top of each sandwich.
12. Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 550
Fat per serving: 30g
Carbohydrates per serving: 36g
Protein per serving: 32g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- White bread can be substituted with whole wheat bread.
- Ham can be substituted with turkey or chicken.
- Swiss cheese can be substituted with Gruyere or cheddar.
Variations:
- Croque Madame: Add a fried egg on top of each sandwich.
- Croque Hawaiian: Add a slice of pineapple and a slice of cooked bacon on top of each sandwich.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a good quality Swiss cheese for the best flavor.
- Make sure the béchamel sauce is thick enough to stay on top of the sandwich.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve on a plate with a side salad and some fresh herbs.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- French fries
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the béchamel sauce is too thin, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
- If the cheese is not melted enough, broil the sandwiches for a few more minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the ham is cooked before using it in the sandwich.
Food history:
- Croque Monsieur is a classic French sandwich made with ham and cheese. It originated in Paris in the early 1900s.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a lunch or dinner dish.
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Region: French