Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 slices of bread
- 6 slices of ham
- 6 slices of Gruyere cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 eggs
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
Special equipment needed:
- Griddle or large skillet
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Baking sheet
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Add the nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
4. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Toast the bread slices on a griddle or large skillet until lightly browned.
6. Place a slice of ham and a slice of Gruyere cheese on each slice of bread.
7. Spoon the sauce over the ham and cheese.
8. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. While the sandwiches are baking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the white vinegar.
10. Crack the eggs into a small bowl, one at a time.
11. Gently pour each egg into the boiling water. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
12. Remove the eggs from the water with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel to drain.
13. Place an egg on top of each sandwich.
14. Serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Gruyere cheese can be substituted with Swiss cheese.
- Ham can be substituted with turkey or chicken.
Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes or avocado to the sandwich before baking.
- Use a different type of bread, such as sourdough or rye.
- Add a slice of bacon to each sandwich.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a non-stick griddle or skillet to prevent the sandwiches from sticking.
- Make sure the sauce is thick enough to stay on the sandwich.
- Use fresh eggs for poaching.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the sandwiches in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the sandwiches on a plate with a side salad.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of white wine or a mimosa.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed greens salad
- Roasted asparagus
- Tomato soup
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thin, add more flour.
- If the bread is too soggy, toast it for a little longer before adding the ham and cheese.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the eggs are cooked to a safe temperature of 160°F.
Food history:
- Croque Madame is a French sandwich that originated in Paris in the early 1900s.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve for brunch or lunch.
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Region: French