Description
The Monte Cristo Sandwich is a classic fried sandwich featuring layers of savory ham, turkey, and melted Swiss cheese between thick white bread or brioche slices. Dipped in an egg and milk batter and fried to a golden, crispy perfection, it is finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and served alongside fruity jam. This flavorful combination offers a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and crispy textures, perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
Bread
- Thick white bread or brioche slices (4 slices)
Deli Meats
- Sliced ham (4 oz)
- Sliced turkey (4 oz)
Cheese
- Swiss cheese slices (4 slices)
Egg Batter
- Eggs (2 large)
- Milk (1/2 cup)
Frying
- Butter (2 tablespoons)
Toppings and Sides
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Jam or preserves, raspberry or strawberry (for serving)
- Optional: Mustard (for added flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Gather sliced ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese. Set aside thick slices of white bread or brioche. In a bowl, crack the eggs, add milk, and whisk together until smooth to create the dipping batter.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Layer ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese between two slices of bread. Press down gently to compact the ingredients securely.
- Dip the Sandwich: Carefully dip the assembled sandwich into the egg and milk mixture, coating both sides thoroughly but without soaking the bread completely to avoid sogginess.
- Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese melts inside.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the sandwich from the skillet, place it on a plate, dust lightly with powdered sugar, and serve with a side of your preferred jam or preserves.
Notes
- Use thick bread slices to prevent sogginess and maintain sandwich structure while frying.
- Cook over medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Quickly dip the sandwich in the batter to avoid over-soaking.
- Choose fresh deli meats and high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Butter is preferred over oil for a richer flavor and crispier crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
Keywords: Monte Cristo, sandwich, fried sandwich, ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, breakfast, brunch, comfort food