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:
- 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.
- Prepare the batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- Use thick bread: Opt for slightly thicker bread slices to absorb the egg mixture without falling apart.
- Preheat the skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before placing the sandwiches in to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- Low and slow: Cook the sandwiches over medium heat to avoid burning the bread while ensuring the cheese melts properly.
- Serve immediately: Monte Cristo sandwiches taste best when served hot and fresh from the skillet.
- Balance sweet and savory: The powdered sugar and jam add a perfect sweetness to contrast the savory ham and cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Gruyère or cheddar can be substituted for Swiss cheese for a different flavor.
- 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.
- 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.
- What other jams work with this? Raspberry and strawberry jams are most common, but apricot or blackberry jam would work just as well.
- 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.