Croque Monsieur is one of the best versions of a ham and cheese toasty that there is. Classic French bistro food and simple and quick to make.
2 slices of thick crusty bread
sliced ham
grated cheese (Gruyere recommended!)
Dijon mustard
Butter for frying
Salt and pepper to taste
For the béchamel
1 oz butter
1 oz flour
half pint of milk
English Mustard
Nutmeg
salt and white pepper
Instructions:
Melt 1 oz of butter in a pan and add the flour to make a roux. Whisk together and let the flour cook out. Add the milk slowly, whisking all the time. When it is mixed well and smooth, add a teaspoon of English mustard, salt and white pepper and some nutmeg. Set aside.
Slice a couple of pieces of crusty bread
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on one side of each bread slice.
Place some slices of ham and top with cheese on one piece of bread. slices. Spread some béchamel on the other slice of bread.
Make a sandwich of the two pieces of bread
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Transfer the sandwiches to a baking sheet and cook under the grill / broiler for a couple of minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, and then cut each sandwich diagonally.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.
Why not add a fried egg on top. It becomes a croque Madame
Croque Monsieur is a classic French grilled ham and cheese sandwich. The name translates to "crunchy mister" in English, referring to the texture of the sandwich. It is believed to have originated in French cafes and bistros in the early 20th century. The exact origin and inventor of the Croque Monsieur are unclear, but it is commonly attributed to French workers who needed a quick and hearty meal during their breaks.
Over time, the Croque Monsieur became a popular staple in French cuisine, commonly served in cafes and brasseries. It is known for its simplicity, combining ham, cheese, and bread, with the addition of Dijon mustard for a tangy flavour. The sandwich is typically cooked in butter until golden and crispy, and sometimes topped with béchamel sauce and grated cheese before being baked.
Croque Monsieur is often enjoyed as a satisfying lunch or a light dinner, accompanied by a salad or served with French fries. Its popularity has spread beyond France, and it has become a beloved dish in many parts of the world, with variations and adaptations to suit local tastes.
Traditionally on YouTube some people put a link in the description for any useful piece of equipment they have used. On this occasion, I wont be putting a link in for the black plastic whisk I used. It is the single most useless piece of junk I have ever used. I would have had more success with a stick! :).
