French Ham Cheese Sandwich with Greens

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €16.69 · €2.78/serving

• 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butterEst. price €0.20–€0.40
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flourEst. price €0.03–€0.08
• 1 cup half-and-half or whole milkEst. price €0.40–€0.80
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustardEst. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated or ground nutmeg (eyeball it)Est. price €0.02–€0.05
• Salt and freshly ground black pepperEst. price €0.01–€0.03
• 8 slices sandwich breadEst. price €1.20–€2.50
• 3/4 pound baked ham, thinly slicedEst. price €6.00–€9.00
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (1/2 pound)Est. price €5.00–€8.00
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar (a couple of splashes)Est. price €0.15–€0.30

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by preheating a sturdy nonstick pan or griddle on medium-low to medium heat.

2. 2

   Begin by heating a small sauce pot over medium heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the pot. Incorporate the flour into the melted butter and cook for about a minute. Gradually whisk in the half-and-half until well combined. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for approximately 2 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken before removing it from the heat. Proceed by spreading the prepared sauce onto each slice of bread. Create sandwiches by layering a couple of folded slices of ham between two sauced bread slices.

3. 3

   Lightly coat the outer sides of each sandwich with 2 tablespoons of softened butter. Press both sides of the sandwiches into a plate filled with shredded cheese before transferring them onto the hot pan or griddle. The cheese will melt and create a crispy crust while the sandwiches cook through. Allow them to cook for about 3 minutes per side until they turn a uniform golden brown color.

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• Cultural note

  The French Ham Cheese Sandwich, also known as Croque Monsieur, is a classic French dish that originated in Paris. It is a popular café and bistro food in France and is often served as a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of ham, cheese, and bread reflects the traditional French culinary style.

• Seasonal note

  This French Ham Cheese Sandwich with Greens can be enjoyed year-round as the ingredients are generally available throughout the different seasons. However, using fresh tarragon leaves and mixed baby greens when they are in season will enhance the flavor and freshness of the dish.

• Health note

  This sandwich is high in calories and fats due to the combination of ham, cheese, butter, and olive oil. It provides a good amount of protein and is a good source of vitamins A and C. However, it is also high in cholesterol, saturated fats, and sodium, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.