Light Bites
French
FrenchCroque Monsieur
The classic French toasted ham and cheese, taken from a simple grilled sandwich to a proper bechamel-laden bistro version. The tiers climb from sliced bread and value cheese to brioche, Gruyere and a silky mornay sauce.
Nut-free
Budget version
Sliced white bread, value cheese and a quick grill, no sauce.
Per serving£1.20
Total cost£2.40
Time13 min
Ingredients for 2
- 4 slices white sandwich bread
- 4 slices value cooked ham
- 80 g mild cheddar , grated
- 20 g butter , softened
- 1 tsp English mustard
- black pepper , to taste
Method
- Heat the grill to medium-high.
- Spread a thin layer of mustard on two slices of bread, then top with ham and most of the cheese and close the sandwiches.
- Butter the outsides and grill in a hot dry pan for 2-3 minutes each side until golden.
- Scatter the remaining cheese on top and grill for 1-2 minutes until melted, then season and serve.
Equipment
- frying pan
- grill
The three ways, side by side
Budget
Sliced white bread, value cheese and a quick grill, no sauce.
Better
Sourdough, mature cheddar and a proper bechamel under the grill.
Ultimate
Brioche, Gruyere mornay, premium ham and a touch of nutmeg, finished bistro-style.
