The Monte Cristo sandwich is a classic dish that combines the flavors of ham, turkey, and cheese, all sandwiched between slices of bread, dipped in egg batter, and fried until golden brown. This recipe offers a delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors, making it a favorite for brunch or a hearty lunch. Follow along to learn how to make this delicious sandwich at home.
Ingredients for Monte Cristo Sandwich:
- 8 slices of white bread
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 4 slices of cooked ham
- 4 slices of cooked turkey
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Butter, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for garnish
- Raspberry jam, for serving
How to Make Monte Cristo Sandwich:
- Prepare the Sandwich: Place a slice of Swiss cheese on each slice of bread. Top four of the bread slices with a slice of ham and a slice of turkey. Place the remaining bread slices on top to form four sandwiches.
- Make the Egg Batter: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Dip the Sandwiches: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a pat of butter. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, coating both sides, and place it in the skillet.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Cook the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and dust them with powdered sugar. Serve warm with raspberry jam on the side for dipping.
About the Main Ingredients:
Bread: Traditional Monte Cristo sandwiches are made with white bread, but you can use any bread you prefer. Brioche or challah bread would add a rich and buttery flavor.
Cheese: Swiss cheese is the classic choice for a Monte Cristo sandwich, but you can use any cheese you like. Gruyere or cheddar would also work well.
Ham and Turkey: Use thinly sliced deli ham and turkey for this recipe. You can also use leftover roasted turkey or ham for added flavor.
Egg Batter: The egg batter is what gives the Monte Cristo sandwich its distinctive flavor and texture. It’s made with eggs, milk, salt, and pepper, and adds a rich and savory element to the dish.
Health Benefits of Monte Cristo Sandwich:
While the Monte Cristo sandwich is a delicious and indulgent treat, it is also quite high in calories and fat. To make it slightly healthier, you can use whole grain bread, lean turkey, and low-fat cheese. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of butter used for frying or use a non-stick skillet.
Variations and Serving Suggestions:
- Sweet and Savory: Serve the Monte Cristo sandwich with a side of maple syrup for a sweet and savory combination.
- Add Some Heat: Add a slice of jalapeno or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sandwich for a spicy kick.
- Make it Mini: Cut the sandwiches into quarters and serve them as appetizers or party snacks.
The Monte Cristo sandwich is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for brunch or a hearty lunch. With its combination of savory ham and turkey, melted cheese, and crispy bread, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Try making this recipe at home and enjoy a taste of this classic sandwich!
