How To Prepare Croque Madame

The traditional French sandwich known as croque madame offers a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures. This beloved dish, which originated in French cafes, has become well-known throughout the world for its filling flavor and cozy appeal.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of bread (preferably brioche or sourdough)
• 4 slices of ham
• 4 slices of Gruyère cheese
• 4 eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Dijon mustard (optional)
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:

• In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Stir in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
• Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
• Cook the sauce until it thickens, then season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Sandwiches:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lay out the bread slices and spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each slice, if desired.
• Place a slice of ham and a slice of Gruyère cheese on two of the bread slices.
• Top each with another slice of bread to form sandwiches.

3. Add the Béchamel Sauce:

• Pour a generous amount of the prepared Béchamel sauce over each sandwich, ensuring it covers the entire surface.

4. Bake the Croque Madame:

• Transfer the sandwiches to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Fry the Eggs:

• While the sandwiches are baking, fry the eggs sunny-side-up or to your preferred doneness in a skillet.

6. Final Assembly:

• Once the sandwiches are baked, remove them from the oven.
• Carefully place a fried egg on top of each sandwich.
• Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

• Croque Madame is best served warm, straight from the oven.
• Pair it with a side salad or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying meal.

Croque Madame is a timeless classic that brings together the indulgent flavors of ham, cheese, creamy Béchamel sauce, and a perfectly fried egg. Whether enjoyed for brunch, lunch, or a cozy dinner, this iconic French sandwich never fails to delight the senses and satisfy the appetite.