The Monte Cristo sandwich, a classic dish that has been a staple in many restaurants and households for decades. This sweet and savory treat consists of ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and jam, all pressed between three slices of bread and then deep-fried to a golden brown perfection. In this article, we will take you through the process of making a deep-fried Monte Cristo sandwich, from preparation to plating.
Understanding the Origins of the Monte Cristo Sandwich
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the history of the Monte Cristo sandwich. The origins of this dish are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. One story behind its creation is that it was inspired by the French croque-monsieur, a grilled ham and cheese sandwich that was popular in Parisian cafes. The Monte Cristo sandwich is thought to have been created by American chefs who added their own twist to the classic French dish, incorporating turkey, jam, and Swiss cheese into the mix.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make a deep-fried Monte Cristo sandwich, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
Ingredients:
- 3 slices of white bread ( Challah or brioche work well)
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
- 2 slices of ham
- 2 slices of turkey breast
- 2 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup of jam or preserves (raspberry or strawberry work well)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Equipment:
- Large skillet or deep fryer
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Preparing the Filling
The first step in making a deep-fried Monte Cristo sandwich is to prepare the filling. This consists of ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and jam.
Assembling the Filling:
- Lay out two slices of bread on a cutting board.
- Spread a layer of jam on each slice of bread.
- Top each slice of bread with a slice of ham, a slice of turkey, and a slice of Swiss cheese.
- Place the third slice of bread on top of the filling to create a sandwich.
Dredging the Sandwich in Flour
Once the filling is prepared, it’s time to dredge the sandwich in flour. This will help the egg wash adhere to the bread and create a crispy exterior.
Dredging the Sandwich:
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip the sandwich in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
Creating the Egg Wash
The egg wash is a crucial component of the deep-fried Monte Cristo sandwich. It helps to create a golden brown crust on the bread and adds flavor to the dish.
Creating the Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and a splash of water.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the egg wash and whisk until combined.
Dipping the Sandwich in the Egg Wash
Once the egg wash is prepared, it’s time to dip the sandwich. This will help the bread to brown evenly and create a crispy exterior.
Dipping the Sandwich:
- Dip the floured sandwich in the egg wash, coating both sides evenly.
- Make sure to get the egg wash all the way to the edges of the bread to ensure a crispy crust.
Frying the Sandwich
Now it’s time to fry the sandwich. This is the most crucial step in making a deep-fried Monte Cristo sandwich.
Frying the Sandwich:
- Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat.
- When the oil is hot, add the sandwich to the skillet or deep fryer.
- Fry the sandwich for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and crispy.
- Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the sandwich from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Draining Excess Oil and Serving
Once the sandwich is fried, it’s time to drain excess oil and serve.
Draining Excess Oil:
- Place the fried sandwich on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Let the sandwich sit for about 5 minutes to allow excess oil to drain.
Serving:
- Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
- Serve with a side of fruit or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when making a deep-fried Monte Cristo sandwich:
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients, such as thick-cut ham and turkey breast, to ensure a flavorful sandwich.
- Don’t overfill the sandwich, as this can make it difficult to fry evenly.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature (about 350°F) for frying.
Variations:
- Add some sliced bacon or prosciutto to the filling for added smokiness.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor.
- Add some sliced apples or pears to the filling for added sweetness.
In conclusion, making a deep-fried Monte Cristo sandwich is a bit of a process, but the end result is well worth the effort. With its crispy exterior and sweet and savory filling, this sandwich is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. So next time you’re in the mood for something new and exciting, give the deep-fried Monte Cristo sandwich a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
What is a Monte Cristo Sandwich?
A Monte Cristo sandwich is a variation of the classic grilled ham and cheese, but it typically includes turkey and is dipped in a light batter before being fried. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the crunch of the fried exterior, makes for a delightful twist on a traditional sandwich.
The origins of the Monte Cristo sandwich are unclear, but it is often attributed to the city of New Orleans, where it remains a popular dish. Some restaurants also offer variations of the Monte Cristo, such as using different types of cheese or adding fruit preserves for added sweetness.
What type of bread is best for a Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich?
The type of bread used for a Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich is crucial, as it needs to be sturdy enough to hold up to the filling and the frying process. Challah bread is a popular choice, as it has a dense texture and a slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Other types of bread, such as brioche or egg bread, can also be used. It’s essential to choose a bread that is a day or two old, as it will be firmer and less likely to fall apart when fried. Fresh bread can be too soft and may not hold up well to the frying process.
What is the best way to assemble a Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich?
Assembling a Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich requires some care, as the ingredients need to be balanced and the bread needs to be able to hold everything together. Start by spreading a layer of jam or preserves on one slice of bread, followed by a layer of turkey, ham, and cheese.
Place the second slice of bread on top, and make sure the edges are aligned. Dip the sandwich in a light batter, making sure it’s fully coated, and then carefully place it in the hot oil. Fry the sandwich until it’s golden brown and crispy, and then drain it on paper towels.
What type of oil is best for frying a Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich?
The type of oil used for frying a Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich is important, as it needs to have a high smoke point to prevent burning. Peanut oil or vegetable oil are good choices, as they have a neutral flavor and a high smoke point.
It’s also essential to heat the oil to the correct temperature, which is usually around 350°F. If the oil is too hot, the sandwich will burn on the outside before it’s fully cooked on the inside. If the oil is too cold, the sandwich will absorb too much oil and be greasy.
How do I prevent the Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich from being too greasy?
To prevent the Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich from being too greasy, it’s essential to not overcrowd the pot with too many sandwiches at once. Fry the sandwiches one at a time, and make sure the oil is at the correct temperature.
It’s also important to not over-fry the sandwich. Fry it until it’s golden brown and crispy, and then remove it from the oil. Place the sandwich on paper towels to drain any excess oil, and serve it immediately.
Can I make a Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich ahead of time?
While it’s possible to make a Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich ahead of time, it’s not recommended. The sandwich is best served immediately after frying, when it’s still crispy and hot.
If you need to make the sandwich ahead of time, you can assemble it and refrigerate it for a few hours before frying. However, the bread may become soggy, and the sandwich may not be as crispy as it would be if it were fried immediately.
What are some variations of the Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich?
There are many variations of the Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich, and the fillings can be adjusted to suit your taste. Some popular variations include adding sliced bananas or strawberries for added sweetness, or using different types of cheese, such as Swiss or cheddar.
You can also add some spice to the sandwich by using peppered ham or adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the batter. Experimenting with different ingredients and fillings can help you create a unique version of the Deep Fried Monte Cristo Sandwich that suits your taste.