Croque Madame
Toasted ham and cheese sandwich topped with a fried egg.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
The Croque Monsieur, the Croque Madame's predecessor, emerged in Parisian cafés around 1910. It's a simple, yet satisfying grilled ham and cheese sandwich that quickly gained popularity. Adding a fried egg transformed it into the Croque Madame, a playful nod to the feminine touch, presumably around the same time but the exact origin is unknown.
The Croque Madame, like its simpler sibling the Croque Monsieur, is a staple of French cafe culture. It's a casual yet indulgent dish often enjoyed for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. It represents simple elegance and comfort.
Cafe Culture Staple
The Croque Madame is a classic item found on the menus of countless cafés throughout France and around the world. It's a go-to choice for a quick, satisfying meal.
Brunch Favorite
The dish's richness and the addition of a fried egg make it a popular brunch option, often paired with coffee or a mimosa.
Comfort Food
Despite its simplicity, the Croque Madame is considered a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for a leisurely weekend or a quick bite during the week.
The Croque Madame is a symphony of savory and rich flavors. The salty ham, nutty Gruyère cheese, and creamy béchamel sauce create a decadent base, while the fried egg adds a final layer of richness and texture.
The dominant flavors are the salty, smoky ham and the sharp, nutty Gruyère cheese. The béchamel sauce provides a creamy, luxurious element that coats the sandwich. The fried egg, with its runny yolk, adds another dimension of richness and binds all the flavors together. A hint of nutmeg in the béchamel complements the other flavors without overpowering them. Dijon mustard, often spread on the bread, adds a tangy counterpoint.
Cheese Selection
Gruyère is the traditional choice, but Emmental or Comté can be used as substitutes. Choose a cheese with good melting properties and a nutty flavor.
Béchamel Consistency
The béchamel sauce should be thick enough to coat the sandwich without being too heavy. A good béchamel should be smooth and creamy.
Bread Choice
Use a sturdy bread that can hold up to the sauce and fillings. Brioche or pain de mie are excellent options.
Egg Preparation
Cook the egg to your liking, but a runny yolk is essential for the true Croque Madame experience. Basting the egg with butter during cooking will enhance the richness.
Butter is Key
Don't skimp on the butter! It adds richness and flavor to both the béchamel and the outside of the bread for toasting.
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