1. Prepare the Sandwich:
Lay the three slices of bread on a flat surface.
Spread a generous layer of strawberry jam on one side of each slice.
On the first slice, layer 2 slices of cheese followed by 2 slices of ham.
Place the second slice of bread on top (jam side up), and add another 2 slices of cheese and 2 slices of ham.
Top the sandwich with the third slice of bread (jam side down), creating a multi-layered sandwich with cheese, ham, and jam.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
Crack the 2 eggs into a shallow bowl and beat them well.
Set the bread crumbs on a plate for coating.
3. Coat the Sandwich:
Carefully dip the entire sandwich into the egg mixture, ensuring that all sides are coated evenly.
After dipping, press the sandwich gently into the bread crumbs, coating both sides and the edges. This will give the sandwich a crispy texture when fried.
4. Fry the Sandwich:
Heat a tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Once the butter has melted and is sizzling, place the coated sandwich in the pan.
Fry the sandwich on one side until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
Flip the sandwich and fry the other side for another 3-4 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts and the bread crumbs form a golden crust.
Press the sandwich down gently with a spatula to help everything stick together as it cooks.
5. Serve:
Once the sandwich is crispy on both sides and the cheese has melted, remove it from the pan.
Slice the sandwich in half diagonally and serve hot. You can drizzle a bit of extra strawberry jam on the side for dipping if desired.
Cooking Tips:
Bread Choice: You can use any type of bread for this recipe, but a sturdy bread like sourdough or brioche works best to hold up to the filling and frying process.
Cheese Variety: Feel free to get creative with the type of cheese. Cheddar, Swiss, Gouda, or Mozzarella all melt beautifully and complement the ham. For a more intense flavor, try using sharp cheddar or a mix of cheeses.
Jam Selection: Strawberry jam adds a sweet contrast to the savory ham and cheese, but other fruit jams such as raspberry, apricot, or fig would also work wonderfully.
Frying Technique: Make sure to cook the sandwich on medium heat. High heat can cause the bread to burn before the cheese inside has melted, so take your time to ensure even cooking.
Crispy Texture: Adding bread crumbs to the egg-coated bread gives the sandwich a deliciously crispy exterior. For an extra crunch, use panko bread crumbs instead of regular ones.
Press Down While Frying: Gently pressing the sandwich with a spatula while frying helps the layers stick together and ensures the sandwich doesn’t fall apart.
Storage:
Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, you can store the sandwich in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a toaster oven or skillet over medium heat to bring back the crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze these sandwiches before frying them. Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the frying instructions.
Reheating: Avoid using the microwave to reheat, as it will make the sandwich soggy. Reheat in a skillet for the best results.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
Calories: 480 kcal
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 21g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 950mg
Please note that these values are approximate and depend on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can replace ham with turkey, chicken, or even bacon. This recipe is versatile and works well with any deli meat or cooked meat you prefer.
2. What if I don’t like sweet and savory combinations?
If you’re not a fan of sweet and savory combinations, you can omit the strawberry jam and make a traditional ham and cheese sandwich. The recipe will still be delicious, just without the sweet contrast.
3. Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free bread and gluten-free breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
4. Is there a way to make this sandwich lighter?
You can make a lighter version of this sandwich by using low-fat cheese, lean ham, and whole wheat bread. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of butter used for frying, or use a non-stick pan and a light cooking spray.
5. Can I make this in advance?
It’s best to make and eat this sandwich fresh, as the crispy texture is part of its appeal. However, you can prepare the sandwich and keep it in the fridge (without frying) for a few hours. When ready to serve, simply dip in the egg, coat with breadcrumbs, and fry.
Conclusion:
The Ham and Cheese French Toast Sandwich with Strawberry Jam is an indulgent and satisfying breakfast or brunch option that combines rich, savory, and sweet flavors. The crispy bread crumb coating adds an irresistible texture, while the melted cheese and salty ham provide hearty goodness. The addition of strawberry jam elevates the dish, giving it a gourmet twist that surprises and delights.
This recipe is easy to customize to suit your taste preferences, whether you want to switch up the type of cheese, add a different jam, or use another kind of deli meat. It’s a great recipe for when you want to treat yourself to something special, yet easy to make. Plus, it’s perfect for serving at brunch gatherings where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Whether you enjoy this sandwich fresh off the stove or prepare a batch for later, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. The combination of classic ingredients in an innovative format makes this a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal.
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