Indulge in the perfect balance of savory and sweet with this Monte Cristo Grilled Cheese with Raspberry Jam. Combining layers of melty cheese, ham, and turkey in a sandwich that's grilled to golden perfection, this classic gets a twist with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of tangy raspberry jam for dipping. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a decadent breakfast, this is a sandwich that will satisfy all your cravings.
Key Information:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
- Number of servings: 2 sandwiches
- Serving size: 1 sandwich
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 16g
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of sturdy white bread (about 150g / 5.3 oz)
- 2 slices of ham (about 60g / 2 oz)
- 2 slices of turkey (about 60g / 2 oz)
- 4 slices Swiss cheese (120g / 4 oz)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk (60 ml)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (15 ml)
- 2 tbsp butter (30g / 1 oz)
- ¼ cup raspberry jam (60 ml)
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Method of Preparation:
- Prepare the Batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, a pinch of salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Lay out the bread slices. On two of the slices, place a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a slice of ham, a slice of turkey, and another slice of cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices to form two sandwiches.
- Dip the Sandwiches: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Carefully dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, coating both sides, but allowing any excess to drip off.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Place the dipped sandwiches into the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Add more butter to the pan as needed for the second sandwich.
- Serve with Raspberry Jam: Transfer the sandwiches to a plate and dust them lightly with powdered sugar. Serve warm, with raspberry jam on the side for dipping.
Tips for Culinary Success:
- Choose Sturdy Bread: Use thick slices of white or brioche bread to ensure the sandwich holds together during dipping and grilling.
- Don’t Soak Too Long: Quickly dip the sandwiches in the egg mixture to avoid soggy bread. A brief dunk on each side is all you need.
- Cheese Choices: While Swiss is classic, feel free to experiment with Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Get the Right Heat: Cook the sandwiches over medium heat to ensure the bread crisps up without burning, while allowing the cheese to melt perfectly.
- Jam Substitutes: If you prefer, you can use strawberry or apricot jam instead of raspberry for a slightly different sweet pairing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use different meats? Absolutely! You can substitute the ham or turkey with roast chicken, roast beef, or even bacon for a richer flavor.
- Do I have to use powdered sugar? The powdered sugar adds a nice contrast of sweetness, but you can skip it if you prefer a purely savory sandwich.
- Can I make this sandwich ahead of time? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can assemble the sandwiches ahead and refrigerate them. Just dip and grill them right before serving.
- What can I serve with this sandwich? Monte Cristo sandwiches pair well with a simple green salad, a side of crispy fries, or fresh fruit to balance the richness.
- Is there a healthier version of this recipe? You can lighten the recipe by using whole grain bread, low-fat cheese, and a smaller amount of butter. You can also use turkey bacon for a leaner protein option.
This Monte Cristo Grilled Cheese with Raspberry Jam is the ultimate sandwich for anyone who loves the combination of savory and sweet. Whether you're serving it for brunch or indulging in a comfort meal, the gooey cheese, crispy bread, and fruity jam make each bite truly memorable. Give this recipe a try, and it’s bound to become a go-to for any occasion where delicious flavor is a must.