SAVOURY FRENCH TOAST – CROQUE MONSIEUR INSPIRED COMFORT FOOD
Step aside sweet maple syrup, this French toast has gone savoury! Inspired by the Parisian classic Croque Monsieur (Mister Crunch), this version transforms a café favourite into a balanced, protein-packed meal that nourishes as much as it delights. Using whole-grain or sour dough bread, lean deli meat and lower fat milk, it’s comfort food at its finest. Served with a crisp salad, this delectable sandwich becomes a bistro-worthy meal in a matter of minutes. Bon Appetit.
Did You Know?
Dairy consumption can fit nicely into a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle. Milk, yogurt and cheese – especially lower fat or fermented varieties – are protein packed and a natural source of calcium and vitamin D. When chosen mindfully and balanced with fruits, vegetables and whole grains, dairy products are not only delicious, but nutritious.
INGREDIENTS (2 Servings)
- 4 slices whole-grain or sourdough bread
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (125 ml) lower fat dairy or plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons (10 ml) olive oil, coconut oil or butter
- 4 thin slices delicatessen ham or turkey
- ¾ cup (188 ml) grated Gruyère, Swiss, emmental or Jarlsberg cheese, divided
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a bowl wide enough for the bread slices, whisk the eggs, milk and Dijon mustard.
- Dip the bread slices in the egg mixture until just soaked. Set aside on a plate.
- Heat the oil or butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Cook the 4 slices of French toast for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the heat.
- Top 2 slices of the French toast with the ham or turkey and half of the grated Gruyère, Swiss, emmental or Jarlsberg cheese.
- Place the other 2 French toast slices on top and transfer to an oven proof baking dish or tray.
- Sprinkle the tops of the sandwiches with the remaining Gruyère, Swiss, emmental or Jarlsberg cheese.
- Broil in oven until the cheese has melted and is bubbly. Serve hot.
PER SERVING: | Calories: 400 kcal | Carbohydrates: 32 g | Protein: 27 g | Fat: 25 g | Fibre: 5 g
ENJOY!
Joanne Nijhuis MSc, RD is a consulting, media and culinary dietitian in Simcoe Grey Bruce on a mission to entertain and educate through her love of food. In addition to recipe development and writing for several publications, Joanne offers cooking demos/classes –for groups or individuals – in person and online. For more information, email Joanne at jo.knows.nutrition@outlook.com.