Croque Madame

 

      I may have very well posted this recipe before years ago, but it bears repeating.  It is a delicious mix of grilled cheese, breakfast, and a meal any time of day.  It takes a minimal amount of ingredients and the taste is worth every minute of prep.   

      With summer already blazing and temps soaring the need for a hot meal wanes.  Sometimes just a sandwich will do.  This one covers many tastes. Adapted from a French recipe, this recipe comes from a bistro in Los Angeles, but is made many places now. 

      The difference between Croque Monsieur and Croque Madame?  They are both French sandwiches that are essentially grilled ham or cured meats and cheese, but the difference is the Croque Madame has a fried or poached egg on top.

      I have been making this for about 10 years now.  It's one of those "Wanna see me pull a rabbit out of my hat?" type of dishes.  

Artisan bread such as Ciabatta or sourdough

Eggs (poached or easy over)

Cured meats such as Prosciutto, ham, hard salami, or Genoa Salami

Gruyere Cheese

Dijon mustard

Salt n pepper

French toast the bread 

      First slice and prepare the bread as you would for French Toast slices.  Dip in egg then cook both sides in skillet.  Remove and set aside.  If you're using ham place meat in the skillet.  Braise until done.  Remove and set aside.  Cured meats can be used in place.  I used genoa salami, ham, and pepperoni as well as several slices of Gruyere. 

Sandwich assembly

      Place bread on plate, layer with cheese, then meat.  Drizzle the Dijon mustard and salt/pepper on top of that and cover with the next layer of cheese on top.  Cover with the last piece of bread.  Grill in skillet like traditional grilled cheese, turning over once and sizzling both sides till cheese is melted.  Serve with sunny side egg on top.  Any time of day. 

                          "Men only need two things, grilled cheese and sex"

Emmy Rossum

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