Spanish Ham and Cheese Monte Cristo Sandwiches

May 11, 2023May 11, 20230 1

Spanish Ham and Cheese Monte Cristo Sandwiches for Breakfast or Brunch

by The Chefin Sandwich

Prep

15 min

Cook

13 min

Ready In

28 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	8 slices sourdough bread ( each approx . 5 x 3 inches & 1/2-inch-thick ) or 8 slices country-style French bread ( each approx . 5 x 3 inches & 1/2-inch-thick )
	2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
	6 ounces manchego cheese , thinly sliced
	2 ounces thinly sliced serrano ham
	4 tablespoons quince paste ( membrillo )
	4 large eggs
	4 tablespoons butter

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

450

Sugar

Fat

34g

Spanish Ham and Cheese Monte Cristo Sandwiches are inspired by the traditional French croque monsieur. The sandwich is made with two slices of bread, filled with cheese and ham, and then dipped in egg before being fried and baked until the cheese is melted. Our Spanish version of this sandwich uses manchego cheese, serrano ham, and quince paste, which is a jelly-like spread made from quince fruit. The result is a delicious and hearty sandwich that is perfect for breakfast or brunch. You can enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea, or serve it with a side of greens to balance out the richness of the sandwich.

Instructions

1.	Preheat oven to 375°F.
2.	Spread mustard over one side of each slice of bread.
3.	Top four slices of bread with manchego cheese and serrano ham.
4.	Spread quince paste on the remaining four slices of bread, and place on top of cheese and ham.
5.	In a shallow dish, beat eggs until well combined.
6.	In a large frying pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
7.	Dip sandwiches into the egg mixture, coating both sides.
8.	Fry the sandwiches until they are golden brown (about 3 minutes per side).
9.	Transfer the sandwiches to a baking sheet, and bake for about 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

PROS

Spanish Ham and Cheese Monte Cristo Sandwiches have a unique flavor and are great for breakfast or brunch.

The combination of flavors from the mustard, manchego cheese, serrano ham, and quince paste is a treat for your taste buds.

CONS

The high fat content of serrano ham and cheese makes the sandwich high in calories.

Eating these sandwiches regularly can lead to weight gain and other health problems.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eating Spanish Ham and Cheese Monte Cristo Sandwiches once in a while can be a source of protein.
The cheese in this recipe is a good source of calcium, while the ham is rich in iron.