Monte Cristo Sandwich: A Sweet & Savory Delight
Elevate Your Brunch with a Delicious Monte Cristo Sandwich!
Transform simple bread into an impressive brunch dish with this Monte Cristo Sandwich recipe. Crispy on the outside and delightfully moist inside, this sandwich is packed with savory ham, melted cheese, and a touch of sweet jam, making it a perfect treat for kids and a sophisticated brunch option for adults. Ideal for special occasions or a cozy weekend treat at home!
Ingredients- 3 slices of bread
- 2 slices of ham
- 2 slices of cheese
- 2 string cheeses
- Honey mustard sauce, to taste
- Strawberry jam, as needed
- 1 egg
- 1 Tbsp butter
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the bread for our Monte Cristo sandwich. Trim the crusts neatly from all three slices of bread. This ensures a clean, professional look and helps the sandwich hold its shape better when cooking. Have your sliced ham and cheese ready. The string cheese will be used as a filling, so we’ll prepare it shortly.
Step 2
On one side of each bread slice (after trimming the crusts), spread a thin, even layer of honey mustard sauce. Be careful not to use too much, as it can make the sandwich overly salty. The honey mustard adds a wonderful sweet and tangy counterpoint to the savory ingredients.
Step 3
Layer one slice of cheese and one slice of ham on top of the honey mustard sauce on the bread slices.
Step 4
Next, prepare the string cheese by cutting it into bite-sized pieces (about 1cm thick). Arrange the cut string cheese evenly over the ham. Then, take another slice of bread, spread it with strawberry jam, and place it on top to form the first sandwich layer. Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients to create two sandwich layers initially.
Step 5
Now, we’ll assemble the full Monte Cristo sandwich. On top of the jam-spread bread from the previous step, spread another thin layer of honey mustard sauce. Add the remaining slice of cheese and ham. Finally, top with the last slice of bread, spread with strawberry jam, to complete the structure of your generously filled Monte Cristo sandwich. Ensure the edges align neatly.
Step 6
It’s time to prepare the egg wash for a golden, custardy coating. In a bowl, whisk the egg until the whites and yolks are fully combined and the stringy bits are removed. A smooth egg wash is key to a beautiful finish. Carefully dip the assembled sandwiches into the egg wash, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated. Let them soak for about 10 seconds to absorb the mixture.
Step 7
Now, let’s cook these delicious sandwiches to perfection. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, carefully place the egg-washed sandwiches into the pan. It’s crucial to maintain a medium-low heat to ensure the bread cooks evenly and the cheese melts without burning the outside.
Step 8
The Monte Cristo sandwich needs to be golden brown and crisp on all sides. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, turning gently. To ensure the inside heats through and the cheese melts thoroughly, you can gently press down on the sandwich with a spatula. For an even better result, place a heavy plate or small pot on top of the sandwich while it cooks to keep it pressed flat. Adjust the heat as needed to achieve a beautiful golden hue.
Step 9
Once both sides are perfectly golden and crispy, remove the Monte Cristo sandwiches from the pan. Cut them into your desired serving size (halving them diagonally is classic) and arrange them on a plate. For a final flourish, dust generously with powdered sugar. This adds a beautiful presentation and a hint of sweetness!
Step 10
This freshly grilled Monte Cristo sandwich offers a delightful contrast of textures – the fluffy bread, the gooey melted cheese, and the savory ham, all complemented by the sweet tang of strawberry jam. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors.
Step 11
This exquisite sandwich pairs wonderfully with a cold iced coffee or a glass of cold milk. It’s perfect for a leisurely brunch, a fun kid’s snack, or even a satisfying light meal.
Step 12
Enjoy your homemade Monte Cristo sandwich, made extra moist and tender with your own touch! May this delicious meal bring you a happy and fulfilling day. Enjoy your cooking!
