The Monte Cristo sandwich, a delicious and indulgent treat that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. This sweet and savory masterpiece consists of ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and jam, all perfectly balanced and pressed between three slices of bread. But, the question remains, who makes the best Monte Cristo sandwich?
A Brief History of the Monte Cristo
Before we dive into the great debate, let’s take a brief look at the origins of this beloved sandwich. The Monte Cristo is believed to have originated in the 1930s in New Orleans, where it was served as a variation of the classic Croque Monsieur. The name “Monte Cristo” is thought to have been inspired by the novel “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas.
Over time, the Monte Cristo gained popularity across the United States, with various restaurants and cafes putting their own spin on the classic recipe. Today, the Monte Cristo is a staple on many menus, from casual diners to upscale eateries.
The Contenders
So, who makes the best Monte Cristo sandwich? We’ve narrowed it down to a few top contenders, each with their own unique take on this classic dish.
The Original: Dooky Chase’s Restaurant
Located in the heart of New Orleans’ Treme neighborhood, Dooky Chase’s Restaurant is often credited with inventing the Monte Cristo sandwich. This legendary eatery has been serving up delicious Creole cuisine since 1941, and their Monte Cristo is a must-try.
Dooky Chase’s version features thinly sliced ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese, all pressed between three slices of bread and served with a side of strawberry jam. The combination of flavors and textures is pure perfection, and it’s easy to see why this sandwich has been a staple on the menu for over 70 years.
The Challenger: The Commander’s Palace
Another New Orleans institution, The Commander’s Palace, has been serving up a mean Monte Cristo since the 1970s. This upscale eatery is known for its haute Creole cuisine, and their Monte Cristo is no exception.
The Commander’s Palace version features house-cured ham, roasted turkey, and Swiss cheese, all pressed between three slices of bread and served with a side of fig jam. The addition of fig jam adds a sweet and savory element to the dish, and the house-cured ham takes it to the next level.
The Dark Horse: The Loveless Cafe
Located just outside of Nashville, Tennessee, The Loveless Cafe is a beloved institution that has been serving up Southern favorites since 1951. Their Monte Cristo sandwich is a surprise hit, featuring thinly sliced ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese, all pressed between three slices of bread and served with a side of strawberry jam.
What sets The Loveless Cafe’s Monte Cristo apart is the addition of a sweet and tangy glaze, made with a secret blend of spices and herbs. This glaze adds a depth of flavor to the dish that is hard to resist.
The Verdict
So, who makes the best Monte Cristo sandwich? While all three contenders are delicious in their own right, the winner has to be Dooky Chase’s Restaurant. There’s just something about the combination of flavors and textures in their version that can’t be beat.
That being said, The Commander’s Palace and The Loveless Cafe are both close seconds, and their unique takes on the classic recipe are definitely worth trying.
What Makes a Great Monte Cristo?
So, what makes a great Monte Cristo sandwich? Here are a few key elements to look for:
- High-quality ingredients: A great Monte Cristo starts with high-quality ingredients, including thinly sliced ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese.
- Perfectly balanced flavors: A great Monte Cristo should have a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, with the jam or glaze adding a tangy element to the dish.
- Crispy bread: The bread should be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, providing a perfect textural contrast to the filling.
- Attention to detail: A great Monte Cristo should be made with attention to detail, from the slicing of the meats to the application of the jam or glaze.
Monte Cristo Variations
While the classic Monte Cristo recipe is delicious on its own, there are many variations that can add a new level of excitement to the dish. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled cheese version: Add some grilled cheese to the mix for a gooey and indulgent twist on the classic recipe.
- Spicy version: Add some spicy pepper jelly or hot sauce to give the Monte Cristo a kick.
- Veggie version: Substitute the ham and turkey with roasted vegetables, such as eggplant or zucchini, for a vegetarian take on the classic recipe.
Conclusion
The Monte Cristo sandwich is a delicious and indulgent treat that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a fan of the classic recipe or like to mix things up with variations, there’s a Monte Cristo out there for everyone.
So, who makes the best Monte Cristo sandwich? While opinions may vary, Dooky Chase’s Restaurant is the clear winner in our book. But, no matter where you get your Monte Cristo, be sure to enjoy every bite of this sweet and savory masterpiece.
| Restaurant | Location | Monte Cristo Features |
|---|---|---|
| Dooky Chase’s Restaurant | New Orleans, LA | Thinly sliced ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese, served with strawberry jam |
| The Commander’s Palace | New Orleans, LA | House-cured ham, roasted turkey, and Swiss cheese, served with fig jam |
| The Loveless Cafe | Nashville, TN | Thinly sliced ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese, served with strawberry jam and a sweet and tangy glaze |
Note: The table above provides a summary of the Monte Cristo sandwiches featured in the article, including the restaurant, location, and key features of each sandwich.
What is a Monte Cristo sandwich?
A Monte Cristo sandwich is a type of sandwich that typically consists of ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and jam, dipped in a light batter and fried. It is often served as a main course or as a brunch item. The sandwich is usually made with a combination of sweet and savory ingredients, which gives it a unique flavor profile.
The origins of the Monte Cristo sandwich are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. Some restaurants claim to have invented the sandwich, while others argue that it was inspired by a similar French dish called the “Croque Monsieur.” Regardless of its origins, the Monte Cristo sandwich has become a popular item on many restaurant menus.
What are the key ingredients of a Monte Cristo sandwich?
The key ingredients of a Monte Cristo sandwich are ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and jam. The ham and turkey provide a savory flavor, while the Swiss cheese adds a creamy texture. The jam, which is usually made from fruit such as strawberries or raspberries, adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the sandwich.
Some variations of the Monte Cristo sandwich may include additional ingredients, such as bacon or spinach. However, the core ingredients of ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and jam remain the same. The quality of the ingredients can also vary depending on the restaurant or recipe, with some using higher-end meats and cheeses.
How do you make a Monte Cristo sandwich?
To make a Monte Cristo sandwich, start by buttering two slices of bread. Then, layer the ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and jam on one slice of bread. Place the second slice of bread on top of the filling to create a sandwich. Dip the sandwich in a light batter, such as a mixture of eggs and milk, and then fry it in a skillet until it is golden brown.
Some recipes may also include additional steps, such as grilling the sandwich or serving it with a side of fruit or salad. The key to making a good Monte Cristo sandwich is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook the sandwich until it is crispy and golden brown.
What is the best type of bread to use for a Monte Cristo sandwich?
The best type of bread to use for a Monte Cristo sandwich is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer to use a crusty bread, such as a baguette or ciabatta, while others prefer a softer bread, such as Challah or brioche. The bread should be sturdy enough to hold the filling, but not so dense that it overpowers the other ingredients.
In general, a bread with a slightly sweet flavor works well with the savory and sweet ingredients of the Monte Cristo sandwich. Some restaurants may also use a specialty bread, such as a bread infused with fruit or nuts, to add an extra layer of flavor to the sandwich.
Can you make a Monte Cristo sandwich without frying it?
Yes, it is possible to make a Monte Cristo sandwich without frying it. One option is to grill the sandwich instead, which can add a crispy texture to the bread without adding extra oil. Another option is to bake the sandwich in the oven, which can help to melt the cheese and warm the filling without adding extra fat.
Some recipes may also include alternative cooking methods, such as panini-pressing the sandwich or cooking it in a skillet with a small amount of oil. The key is to find a cooking method that works for you and that helps to bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
What are some variations of the Monte Cristo sandwich?
There are many variations of the Monte Cristo sandwich, depending on the restaurant or recipe. Some common variations include adding bacon or spinach to the filling, using different types of cheese or jam, or adding a layer of fruit or nuts to the sandwich. Some restaurants may also offer a “veggie” version of the Monte Cristo, which replaces the ham and turkey with vegetarian ingredients.
Other variations may include using different types of bread, such as a gluten-free bread or a bread infused with herbs or spices. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients, such as avocado or hummus, to add extra creaminess and flavor to the sandwich.
Where can you find the best Monte Cristo sandwich?
The best Monte Cristo sandwich is a matter of personal opinion, and can depend on a variety of factors such as the quality of the ingredients, the cooking method, and the overall flavor profile. Some restaurants may specialize in Monte Cristo sandwiches and offer a unique twist on the classic recipe.
To find the best Monte Cristo sandwich, try searching online for reviews or recommendations from food critics or bloggers. You can also ask friends or family members for suggestions, or try visiting different restaurants to see which one you like best. Ultimately, the best Monte Cristo sandwich is one that is made with high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection.