Monte Cristo Sandwich – If you’re craving a sandwich that perfectly combines sweetness and savory flavors look no further, than this mouthwatering recipe for a Monte Cristo Sandwich. This traditional American bliss brings together the richness of toast with the heartiness of a turkey and ham sandwich. With cheese and a hint of nutmeg it’s a treat that’s surprisingly simple to make. Here’s how you can bring this dish to your table along with a description highlighting our key ingredients; eggs, milk, nutmeg, Swiss cheese, deli turkey, deli ham and the added touch of sweetness from powdered sugar and strawberry jam.
The first time I tried making a Monte Cristo sandwich was quite an experiment. I remember it was pouring outside. I was in the mood for something comforting yet different, for lunch. As I watched the sandwich sizzle in the pan I must admit I had my doubts; however, the aroma was simply irresistible. When my husband and child took their bites their faces lit up. It was a triumph! Since then this recipe has become a family favorite on lazy weekend afternoons.
What makes this Monte Cristo Sandwich truly special?
What truly sets this Monte Cristo Sandwich apart is its versatility and the perfect balance of flavors it delivers. It’s a dish that works well for any time of day whether it’s morning, noon or night. The striking variety of mouthwatering flavors makes it pleading to an assortment of tastes. What’s awesome, about this sandwich is that you can effortlessly customize it to fit your liking. Try types of cheese or meats to create an exciting experience each time you make it. Whether you enjoy the melt of cheese the delicious blend of deli meats or even add a touch of sweetness, with powdered sugar and jam every ingredient contributes to making this sandwich an unforgettable culinary delight.
What You Need To Make This Monte Cristo Sandwich Recipe?
Eggs: These eggs are more than eggs; they hold the secret to creating a velvety coating that lovingly envelops the bread. They provide a comforting warmth, like a blanket bringing everything together harmoniously.
Milk: Whether you choose whole or 2% it’s akin to selecting a sweater on a day. The milk adds a creaminess to the egg mixture ensuring that each bite is luxuriously soft.
Nutmeg: This unassuming spice plays an important role in the background offering a touch of warmth reminiscent of classic French toast.
Salt: Just a pinch, like a sprinkle of magic to elevate all the flavors. It’s these details that truly make a difference.
Bread: Brioche or challah aren’t bread; they are clouds in this sandwich creation. Their delicate sweetness perfectly complements the fillings.
Mustard: These condiments are not just toppings; they act as flavor ambassadors. Mayo brings creaminess while mustard adds depth. Together they create an extraordinary harmony in every bite.
Swiss Cheese: Picture the cheese as the adhesive holding our sandwich together. As it melts into gooey perfection it bridges the gap between all the ingredients, with its layer.
Deli Meats: The turkey and ham form the heart and soul of this sandwich creation. They don’t just provide protein. A delightful combination of flavors. A symphony of tastes, with every mouthful.
Butter: This is the ingredient that gives our sandwich its golden color sizzling in the pan until it reaches a perfect crispiness.
Powdered Sugar & Jam: These are the twists at the end of our sandwich tale. While optional if you’re in the mood for a climax they turn the sandwich from savory, to a blend of sweet and savory.
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Steps To Make Monte Cristo Sandwich:
Step 1: Start by whisking eggs, milk, a pinch of nutmeg, and salt in a bowl large enough for dipping your sandwiches.
Step 2: Spread the love (and mayo) on two slices of bread, and mustard on the other two. Then, create a cheese, turkey, and ham party on each mayo-spread slice. Top with the mustard bread, pressing them together like a long-lost hug.
Step 3: In your favorite skillet, melt some butter over a medium-low flame. Bathe each sandwich in the egg mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated. Gently lay them in the skillet, and cook until each side turns golden brown, like a summer tan. Use a foil cover if needed to help the cheese melt and cook any runaway egg mixture.
Step 4: Serve these golden delights with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a side of jam, turning a simple sandwich into a gourmet treat!
Tip:
For this Monte Cristo Sandwich, the key to elevating it from good to exceptional lies in mastering the egg coating. The trick is in the soaking technique. Here’s what you need to do:
- Balanced Soaking: Don’t just dunk your sandwiches in the egg mixture; give them a gentle, yet thorough soak. Let each side of the sandwich sit in the egg mixture for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This allows the bread to absorb the mixture just enough to get that lovely custard-like layer when cooked, without becoming overly soggy. It’s like letting a sponge gracefully absorb water without submerging it completely.
- Consistent Egg Mixture: Whisk your eggs and milk together until they’re completely blended into a uniform mixture. This consistency ensures that every inch of your bread gets an even coating, leading to a perfectly golden and uniform crust on all sides.
By following this pro tip, you’ll ensure that your Monte Cristo Sandwiches have that delightful, slightly crispy exterior with a soft, richly flavored interior – making every bite a delightful experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use different types of cheese or meat?
Sure you can definitely use a variety of cheeses or meats to make your Monte Cristo sandwich more unique and to suit your taste preferences.
Is it necessary to use powdered sugar and jam?
Although not mandatory adding sugar and jam to the sandwich provides a balance of sweetness that complements the savory flavors. It’s worth giving it a shot!
Can this sandwich be made ahead of time?
Ideally Monte Cristo sandwiches are best enjoyed when freshly made. However if you want to plan you can prepare the components in advance and cook them when you’re ready to serve.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Monte Cristo Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 c milk preferably whole or 2%
- 1/8 tsp nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 4 slices white bread like brioche or challah
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices deli turkey
- 4 slices deli ham
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar optional
- 2 tbsp strawberry jam optional
Instructions
- In a bowl mix together eggs, milk, nutmeg and salt.
- Take two slices of bread. Spread mayo, on them. Spread mustard on the two slices.
- Place a slice of cheese on each slice of bread. On the mayo-covered slices add ham and turkey. Then cover with the mustard-covered slices.
- Press the sandwiches lightly on a cutting board.
- In a skillet over medium-low heat melt butter.
- Dip each sandwich, in the egg mixture to coat both sides.
- Cook the sandwiches in the skillet until they turn brown on each side. If needed you can cover them with foil while cooking.
- If desired you can serve them sprinkled with sugar and accompanied by a side of strawberry jam.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
