Croque Madame Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened, divided
• 1 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 2 ounces shredded Gruyre cheese
• teaspoon salt, or to taste
• teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 4 slices white bread, lightly toasted
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 thin slices Black Forest ham
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill, or to taste (Optional)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven's broiler with the rack about 6 inches from the heat source.

Step 2: In a saucepan, melt 1 tablespoons butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour and stir for about 3 minutes until it begins to turn slightly brown.

Step 3: Slowly whisk in the milk, bringing the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce the heat immediately and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add half of the Gruyre cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese is melted, about 2 minutes. Remove the saucepan from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Spread about 1 teaspoon of butter on 2 pieces of toasted bread. Top each slice with 1 tablespoon of the cheese sauce, then add a slice of Black Forest ham on each.

Step 6: On the remaining 2 slices of toasted bread, spread 1 teaspoon of butter, followed by Dijon mustard and the remaining Gruyre cheese.

Step 7: Transfer all 4 slices of bread to a baking sheet. Broil in the preheated oven for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is nearly melted.

Step 8: Remove from the oven and place the bread slices together to form two sandwiches. Pour the remaining cheese sauce over each sandwich.

Step 9: Return the sandwiches to the broiler and cook for another 2 minutes, until the cheese sauce begins to brown.

Step 10: While the sandwiches are broiling, heat the remaining butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet, keeping them separate, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 11: Add the tablespoon of water to the skillet, cover, and baste until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny, about 2 minutes.

Step 12: Place one egg on each sandwich and sprinkle with chopped fresh dill, if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving:

• Calories: 639
• Total Fat: 43g (55% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 24g (121% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 294mg (98% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1264mg (55% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 37g (14% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (5% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 25g (51% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (5% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 542mg (42% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (18% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 374mg (8% Daily Value)

The Croque Madame is a beloved French sandwich that has stood the test of time, earning its place in the hearts of food lovers worldwide. Combining the perfect balance of crispy toasted bread, savory ham, melted Gruyre cheese, and creamy bchamel sauce, all crowned with a perfectly fried egg, this dish is more than just a mealit's an experience.

History of the Croque Madame

The origin of the Croque Madame dates back to the early 20th century in France. It is a variation of the earlier "Croque Monsieur," a simple ham and cheese sandwich that is grilled with butter. The "Madame" version includes a fried or poached egg on top, which adds richness and elevates the dish. The addition of the egg is said to represent the hat of a lady (thus the name "Madame"), making it a whimsical and charming twist on the classic Croque Monsieur. Over the years, the Croque Madame has become a staple in French cafs, often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or lunch.

Regional Features and Variations

While the Croque Madame is known throughout France, it has regional variations. In Paris, for example, it is often served with a lightly toasted, buttery baguette, while in other regions, it may be made with thicker slices of rustic bread. The sauce bchamel is a constant, though some variations might include additional spices or herbs. While the Croque Monsieur does not feature the egg, it is equally adored and can be found in many restaurants and brasseries alongside its feminine counterpart, the Croque Madame.

What Makes It Different From Other Sandwiches

Unlike other ham-and-cheese sandwiches, the Croque Madame stands out with its bchamel sauce, which adds a creamy texture and depth of flavor. The presence of the fried egg on top sets it apart from similar dishes, such as the Croque Monsieur, which is simply a ham and cheese sandwich with no egg. The bchamel sauce and Gruyre cheese used in the Croque Madame contribute a rich and velvety texture that elevates the dish to a luxurious level. The combination of these ingredients makes the Croque Madame far more indulgent than its simpler sandwich counterparts.

Where It's Usually Served

The Croque Madame is a popular dish in French cafs, bistros, and brasseries. It is commonly served as a part of a leisurely lunch or brunch, often accompanied by a small salad or a side of crispy fries. This dish is also a common sight in hotels and upscale eateries that offer French-inspired menus. Its hearty nature makes it a perfect option for a filling meal, whether it's enjoyed during a busy workday or as part of a relaxing weekend brunch with friends.

Interesting Facts

• The Croque Madame is often paired with a glass of wine, particularly a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the richness of the bchamel and cheese.
• In some variations of the dish, a sprinkle of nutmeg is added to the bchamel sauce, giving it a unique and aromatic flavor.
• The Croque Madame is often featured as a quick and comforting meal in French cinema, embodying the essence of French caf culture.
• In some parts of France, the sandwich may be prepared with a variety of local cheeses, such as Comt or Emmental, offering subtle regional flavor differences.

Whether enjoyed in the cozy cafs of Paris or recreated in the comfort of your own home, the Croque Madame is a dish that captures the essence of French cuisine: indulgent, comforting, and full of flavor.

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