Name: Croque monsieur
Yield: 4
Cuisine: France
Ingredients: 8 slices white sandwich bread; 4 slices good ham; 2 cups (200 g) grated Gruyere; 2 tbsp butter, plus more for the bread; 2 tbsp flour; 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) warm milk; Pinch of nutmeg; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper

Where it comes from

The croque monsieur is a classic of Parisian cafes and bistros, born as a quick and hearty lunch. Adding a fried egg on top turns it into a croque madame.

Explore the cuisine of France.

Recipe

Make Croque monsieur at home

Serves 4Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

8 slices white sandwich bread
4 slices good ham
2 cups (200 g) grated Gruyere
2 tbsp butter, plus more for the bread
2 tbsp flour
1 1/4 cups (300 ml) warm milk
Pinch of nutmeg
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper

How it's made

Melt the butter, whisk in the flour and cook 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the warm milk and simmer until thick, 5 minutes. Season with nutmeg, salt and pepper.
Spread mustard on 4 slices of bread; top with ham and half the cheese, then close with the other slices.
Brush the outsides with butter and toast in a skillet 2 minutes per side.
Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and spoon bechamel over each.
Top with the remaining cheese.
Broil or bake at 425 F (220 C) for 5 to 8 minutes until golden and bubbling.