Croque Madame 

Croque Madame is a classic French sandwich that elevates the traditional ham and cheese toastie by adding a rich layer of béchamel sauce and a fried egg on top. This indulgent dish is perfect for brunch or a satisfying lunch, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Its name, "Madame," refers to the fried egg resembling a lady's hat, distinguishing it from the Croque Monsieur, which lacks the egg.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• For the Sandwich:

  • 2 slices white bread (preferably thick-cut)

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 2 slices cooked ham

  • 2 slices Gruyère cheese (or any good melting cheese)

  • 1 large egg

  • Pinch of salt

  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper

• For the Béchamel Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup whole milk

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • Dash of ground nutmeg

Directions:

1. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:

   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

   • Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute to form a roux.

   • Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

   • Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes.

   • Season with salt, pepper, mustard, and nutmeg.

   • Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Assemble the Sandwich:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Butter one side of each slice of bread.

   • Spread mustard on the unbuttered sides.

   • Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each piece of bread.

   • Close the sandwich with the buttered sides facing out.

3. Cook the Sandwich:

   • Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 6–8 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.

4. Fry the Egg:

   • While the sandwiches are baking, heat a small skillet over medium heat.

   • Add a little butter or oil and fry the egg until the white is set but the yolk remains runny.

5. Serve:

   • Remove the sandwiches from the oven.

   • Place the fried egg on top of each sandwich.

   • Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.

   • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal

• Protein: 20 g

• Fat: 25 g

• Carbohydrates: 30 g

• Saturated Fat: 12 g

• Cholesterol: 200 mg

• Sodium: 900 mg

• Potassium: 250 mg

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 3 g

• Calcium: 300 mg

• Iron: 2 mg