LIZ'S MONTE CRISTO SANDWICH

The Grilled Cheese Sandwich Gets Its Revenge

Even though I cook professionally, one of my favorite entrées are simple sandwiches. Here is my own personal version of the Monte Cristo. It only took one bite for this sandwich to also become one of my husband's favorites. Moreover, Alexander Dumas's The Count of Monte Cristo is one of our favorite books. The classic Monte Cristo sandwich is deep-fat-fried, and just a bit more greasy than I like it. Don't be scared to put in the jam, it is terrific!!! You can even dip the sandwich in maple syrup. Great for lunch or dinner, and occassionally we crave it for breakfast too.

Yield: 1 sandwich

2 Slices Bread, white is best
Softened Butter, as needed
Ham or Turkey sliced thin, as needed
1 to 2 Slices of Swiss or Guiyere cheese
1 Egg
1 to 2 ounces Milk
Nutmeg, to taste (if desired)
Your Favorite Berry or Apricot Jam (as needed)
Raspberry Jam is my personal favorite

1. Heat pan to medium-high heat, or a griddle to 350○

2. Mix together the egg, milk, and nutmeg . Dip the bread slices into this batter, make sure the bread is soaked through. Melt butter on the pan or griddle. Place the battered bread slices in the butter and grill the first side thuroughly.

3. Turn the bread slices and add the Ham or Turkey (Hey, both it you want), Cheese, and Jam on top of one of the bread slices.

4. Place the other bread slice on top with the grilled side facing the meat, cheese, and jam. Finish grilling both sides of the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the meat is warmed through. Dust with powdered sugar if you wish.