Simple Fruit and Cheese Skewers

Sink your teeth into the ultimate combination of sweet and savory with these Monte Cristo sandwiches. A delectable twist on the classic ham and cheese sandwich, this version is dipped in egg batter, fried until golden, and dusted with powdered sugar for a mouth-watering finish. Whether for brunch or a hearty snack, this sandwich is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Key Information:

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes
• Number of servings: 4 sandwiches
• Serving size: 1 sandwich

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 540 kcal
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 8g

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white bread (about 320g / 11.3 oz)
• 4 slices of ham (about 100g / 3.5 oz)
• 4 slices of turkey (about 100g / 3.5 oz)
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese (about 120g / 4.2 oz)
• 2 large eggs
• 60 ml (1/4 cup) milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 30g (2 tablespoons) butter, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Raspberry or strawberry jam, for serving

Method of Preparation:

1. Assemble the sandwiches: Lay out the 8 slices of bread. On 4 slices, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (optional), then layer a slice of ham, a slice of turkey, and a slice of Swiss cheese. Top each with another slice of bread to complete the sandwich.
2. Prepare the batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Dip the sandwiches: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Cook the sandwiches: Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Add more butter to the skillet as needed for the remaining sandwiches.
5. Finish and serve: Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Dust the tops with powdered sugar, slice diagonally, and serve warm with raspberry or strawberry jam on the side.

Tips for Culinary Success:

1. Use thick bread: Opt for slightly thicker bread slices to absorb the egg mixture without falling apart.
2. Preheat the skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before placing the sandwiches in to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
3. Low and slow: Cook the sandwiches over medium heat to avoid burning the bread while ensuring the cheese melts properly.
4. Serve immediately: Monte Cristo sandwiches taste best when served hot and fresh from the skillet.
5. Balance sweet and savory: The powdered sugar and jam add a perfect sweetness to contrast the savory ham and cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Gruyère or cheddar can be substituted for Swiss cheese for a different flavor.
2. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time? It’s best to cook Monte Cristo sandwiches fresh, but you can assemble them ahead and fry them when ready.
3. Do I have to add powdered sugar? No, the powdered sugar is optional, but it adds a unique sweet contrast to the savory elements of the sandwich.
4. What other jams work with this? Raspberry and strawberry jams are most common, but apricot or blackberry jam would work just as well.
5. Can I bake instead of frying? Yes, you can bake the sandwiches in a 190°C (375°F) oven for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

These Monte Cristo sandwiches are the ultimate indulgence for lovers of both sweet and savory flavors. Whether you're serving them at a weekend brunch or as a comforting meal, their crispy golden exterior and gooey melted cheese will leave everyone craving more. Try pairing them with a fresh fruit salad or a light soup for a balanced and satisfying meal.