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
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- Non-stick skillet
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Add the nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
4. Remove the sauce from the heat and set aside.
5. Place 4 slices of bread on a baking sheet. Top each slice with a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese. Cover with the remaining slices of bread.
6. Spread the remaining butter on top of each sandwich. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. While the sandwiches are baking, heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet and cook until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny.
8. To assemble the Croque-Madame, place each sandwich on a plate. Spoon the sauce over the top of each sandwich. Top each sandwich with a fried egg.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 610
Fat per serving: 39g
Carbohydrates per serving: 33g
Protein per serving: 29g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- White bread can be substituted with whole wheat bread or sourdough bread.
- Ham can be substituted with turkey or chicken.
- Swiss cheese can be substituted with Gruyere or cheddar cheese.
- Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil or canola oil.
Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes or avocado to the sandwich for extra flavor.
- Use bacon instead of ham for a different taste.
- Use a different type of cheese for a unique flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to whisk the sauce constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the eggs from sticking.
- Let the sandwiches cool for a few minutes before adding the sauce and egg to prevent the sauce from sliding off.
Storage instructions:
The Croque-Madame can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the sandwich in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Croque-Madame on a plate with a side salad or fruit.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Pair with a glass of white wine or a mimosa for a brunch-time treat.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh fruit salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the bread is burning, reduce the oven temperature or shorten the baking time.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the eggs until the whites are set to prevent the risk of salmonella.
Food history:
The Croque-Madame is a French dish that originated in Paris in the early 1900s. It is a variation of the Croque-Monsieur, which is a ham and cheese sandwich.
Flavor profiles:
The Croque-Madame is a savory and cheesy sandwich with a creamy sauce and a runny egg on top.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Croque-Madame for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.
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Region: French