Croque Madame: A French Classic

If you’re a fan of French cuisine, you’ve probably heard of Croque Madame. This classic French sandwich is a variation of the Croque Monsieur, which is essentially a grilled ham and cheese sandwich. However, the Croque Madame takes it up a notch by adding a fried egg on top. In this article, we’ll explore the origins, ingredients, preparation, and variations of this delicious sandwich.

Origins of Croque Madame

The origins of Croque Madame are not entirely clear, but it is believed that it originated in French cafés in the early 20th century. It was initially a popular option for a quick lunch or snack, and it soon became a staple in French cuisine. The name “Croque Madame” is said to have been coined due to the addition of the egg, which resembles a lady’s hat.

Ingredients

The ingredients of Croque Madame are relatively simple and easy to find. You’ll need:

• 2 slices of bread (sourdough or pain de mie)
• 2 slices of ham
• 2 slices of Gruyere cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon of butter
• 1 tablespoon of flour
• 1 cup of milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

To prepare the Croque Madame, start by making the béchamel sauce. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add the flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Next, preheat a pan over medium heat. Place one slice of bread on the pan, then add a slice of ham and a slice of Gruyere cheese. Add another slice of bread on top, then pour the béchamel sauce over the sandwich. Cook until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.

In a separate pan, fry an egg to your liking. Place the egg on top of the sandwich, and serve hot.

Variations

While the classic Croque Madame is delicious as is, there are many variations you can try to mix things up. Here are a few:

• Replace the ham with smoked salmon or prosciutto for a different flavor.
• Swap the Gruyere cheese for another type of cheese, such as cheddar or brie.
• Add some greens, such as arugula or spinach, for a healthier option.

Conclusion

Croque Madame is a delicious and classic French sandwich that is easy to make and perfect for any time of day. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out some variations, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your household. Bon appétit!

FAQs

What is the difference between Croque Monsieur and Croque Madame?

The main difference between the two sandwiches is that Croque Madame has a fried egg on top, while Croque Monsieur does not.

Can I make Croque Madame without the béchamel sauce?

While the béchamel sauce adds a creamy and delicious flavor to the sandwich, you can make a simpler version by skipping the sauce and just adding ham, cheese, and egg between two slices of bread.

What bread is best for Croque Madame?

Traditionally, Croque Madame is made with sourdough or pain de mie bread. However, you can use any bread you prefer, as long as it is sturdy enough to hold the sandwich together.

Can I make Croque Madame ahead of time?

Croque Madame is best served hot, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the sandwich when you’re ready to eat. You can also make the béchamel sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Is Croque Madame a healthy option?

Croque Madame is not the healthiest option due to its high calorie and fat content. However, you can make it healthier by using whole grain bread, lean ham, low-fat cheese, and adding some greens to the sandwich.