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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.
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Ingredients:
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- 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.
