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The Croque-Monsieur is a French classic—a golden, crispy ham and cheese sandwich with a rich béchamel sauce. But what if we gave it a modern update? Today, we’re adding a gourmet touch to this timeless favorite with unexpected flavors and textures.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
• 4 slices of sourdough bread (for extra crunch)
• 2 tbsp butter (softened)
• 4 slices of premium ham
• 100g Gruyère cheese (grated)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey (for a sweet contrast)
• 100ml béchamel sauce (see below)
• Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
For the béchamel sauce:
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• 200ml milk
• Salt & pepper to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Béchamel
1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until thickened.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
1. Spread Dijon mustard and honey on two slices of bread.
2. Layer with ham and half of the grated Gruyère.
3. Top with the remaining bread slices and lightly butter the outside.
Step 3: Cook & Grill
1. In a pan over medium heat, grill the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
2. Place on a baking tray, spread béchamel sauce on top, and sprinkle with the remaining Gruyère.
3. Grill in the oven for 3-5 minutes until bubbling and golden.
Step 4: Serve with a Modern Touch
Garnish with fresh thyme and serve with a side of truffle-infused rocket salad or caramelised onion chutney for a contemporary twist.
The combination of honey and mustard adds depth, while sourdough enhances the crunch. This upgraded Croque-Monsieur is perfect for brunch, lunch, or an indulgent snack!
