CROQUE MADAME

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1-1.5 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• salt and white pepper to taste
• 8 slices bread toasted
• 12 slices ham I used Gypsy ham
• 2 cups grated Gruyere cheese
• 4 eggs fried to your preference

Instructions

1. Pre-heat the grill of the oven.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter then whisk in the flour to make a roux.
3. Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking to create a smooth, rich sauce.
4. Turn down the heat and allow to cook gently, whilst stirring, until the sauce is cooked through.
5. Add the mustard and season to taste.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by dividing the ham and cheese between 4 slices. Place in the oven, allowing the cheese to melt then top with the remaining slices of bread and a generous spoonful of bechamel sauce before returning to the oven.
7. Allow to grill until golden brown then remove from the oven and top with the fried eggs.
8. Serve immediately.