Open Face Monte Cristo Sandwiches are a delightful culinary creation originating from a memorable brunch experience in Colorado. These sandwiches, with a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 18 minutes, are a perfect choice for a leisurely breakfast or a quick lunch/snack option, especially for those craving a flavorful combination of pork, poultry, and meat in less than 30 minutes.
The recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients, easily found in most kitchens. You’ll need 2 eggs, 1/2 cup of milk, a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, 4 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of margarine, 4 tablespoons of red currant jelly, 4 slices of chicken, 4 slices of smoked ham, 4 slices of Swiss cheese, and 8 slices of bread. These ingredients come together harmoniously to create a symphony of flavors and textures.
To start, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. This forms the base of the egg mixture that will coat the bread slices, giving them a rich and indulgent flavor. Next, dip both sides of the bread slices into the egg mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the egg-coated bread slices to the skillet. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a glorious golden brown. This step infuses the bread with a buttery richness, creating a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft and flavorful interior.
Now comes the fun part – assembling the sandwiches! Spread a generous tablespoon of red currant jelly on one side of each bread slice. Then, layer on the chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese, ensuring each sandwich is piled high with deliciousness.
Once assembled, place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and pop them under the broiler, about 5 inches from the heat source. Let them broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a gooey, irresistible topping.
For the finishing touch, sprinkle powdered sugar over the sandwiches, if desired. This adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the savory flavors of the meats and cheese.
These Open Face Monte Cristo Sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately after cooking, while the cheese is still warm and gooey. Serve them up to your family or guests and watch as they delight in every bite of this delectable dish.
In terms of nutrition, each serving of these sandwiches packs a satisfying punch. With a total calorie count of 1707.9, they offer a hearty meal option. They also provide 44.6 grams of fat, 19.9 grams of saturated fat, 217.9 milligrams of cholesterol, and 4096.9 milligrams of sodium. On the lighter side, they contain 253.2 grams of carbohydrates, including 11.2 grams of fiber and 33.6 grams of sugar. Additionally, they provide a substantial 68.9 grams of protein per serving, making them a fulfilling and nourishing choice.
With a 5-star aggregated rating based on 5 reviews, it’s clear that these Open Face Monte Cristo Sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser. Whether enjoyed for brunch, lunch, or a quick snack, they are sure to become a favorite in your household, just as they did in Colorado. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the irresistible flavors of this classic sandwich recipe. Bon appétit!
