A Monte Cristo sandwich is a delicious fried sandwich typically made with sliced deli meats and cheese. The sandwich is dipped in an egg batter, fried until crispy on the outside, and often dusted with powdered sugar or served with jam or preserves for dipping.
History of the Monte Cristo Sandwich
The origins of the Monte Cristo sandwich are debated, but it seems to have emerged in the United States in the mid-20th century. Some sources claim it was inspired by a similar fried sandwich from France or Italy, but there is no definitive evidence of its exact origins.
The recipe first started appearing in American cookbooks in the 1960s and 70s. The name Monte Cristo is likely a reference to the Count of Monte Cristo, the main character in the 1844 novel of the same name by French author Alexandre Dumas. The connection between the count and the sandwich is unclear, but the name has stuck.
The Monte Cristo sandwich rose to popularity in the 1970s and 80s, showing up on menus across the United States, especially at diners and family restaurants. It continues to be a staple sandwich offering on many menus today.
Basic Ingredients
While there are many variations, a classic Monte Cristo sandwich is made with the following basic ingredients:
- Sliced white bread
- Deli sliced ham
- Deli sliced turkey
- Swiss cheese slices
- Egg batter
The bread acts as the base for building the sandwich. Soft white sandwich bread like egg bread or challah works best. The meat and cheese layers provide flavor and filling between the battered and fried bread slices. Ham and turkey are classic choices, but other meats can also be used.
Swiss cheese is preferred for its excellent melting properties, but cheddar or American cheese also work well. The egg batter coats the outside of the assembled sandwich before frying and provides a crispy coating.
How to Assemble a Monte Cristo Sandwich
To assemble a Monte Cristo sandwich:
- Take two slices of white sandwich bread
- Layer sliced deli ham and turkey on one bread slice
- Top the meat layers with Swiss cheese slices
- Close the sandwich by topping with the second bread slice
- Press down lightly to seal the edges of the sandwich
The sandwich can be prepared to this point and then refrigerated until ready to fry. When ready to cook, dip the assembled sandwich in an egg batter mixture before frying in a skillet.
Egg Batter
The egg batter for a Monte Cristo sandwich generally contains:
- Eggs
- Milk or water
- Flour
- Salt
- Pepper
- Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)
The wet ingredients like eggs and milk are combined with the dry ingredients like flour and spices to create a thick, coating batter. The assembled sandwich is dipped into the batter on both sides before frying.
Frying the Sandwich
To fry a Monte Cristo sandwich:
- Heat 1⁄4 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat
- Dip the assembled sandwich into the egg batter until well coated on both sides
- Fry the coated sandwich for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown
- Drain the fried sandwich on a paper towel lined plate
Frying in shallow oil helps the batter coat the sandwich and turn beautifully crispy and golden brown. Draining on paper towels soaks up any excess grease.
Serving Suggestions
A Monte Cristo sandwich can be served as is once fried, but there are some classic ways to finish it:
- Powdered Sugar: Dusting with powdered sugar adds sweetness and helps counter the rich fried flavor.
- Jam or Preserves: Serving with fruit jam, jelly or preserves on the side provides a sweet, fruity dipping sauce.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling maple syrup over a Monte Cristo adds sweetness and moisture.
The sandwich is often served with fresh fruit like strawberries or melon slices on the side. Crispy French fries or potato wedges also pair nicely.
Common Variations
There are endless ways cooks adapt and customize the Monte Cristo sandwich. Some popular variations include:
Meat and Cheese Options
- Sliced roast beef, chicken or pastrami instead of ham
- Havarti, Gruyere or provolone cheese instead of Swiss
- Additional bacon or turkey for more filling
Bread Types
- Thick cut challah or brioche bread
- Thin sourdough or rye bread
- French toast style with cinnamon eggy bread
Batter Additions
- Beer or club soda for a lighter batter
- Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg or cayenne pepper
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
Toppings
- Melted chocolate sauce
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries
- Banana slices
The possibilities are endless for customizing a Monte Cristo to suit your tastes!
Key Tips for Making the Perfect Monte Cristo
Follow these tips for Monte Cristo sandwich success:
- Use soft, fresh white bread that can soak up the egg batter.
- Layer on thin deli meats and cheese for even cooking.
- Dip the entire sandwich in the batter to fully seal the bread.
- Fry in shallow oil over medium-high heat for a crispy crust.
- Drain on paper towels to soak up excess oil.
- Start with classic ham, turkey and Swiss flavors.
- Customize with different breads, cheeses, meats and toppings.
- Serve warm right from the skillet and enjoy immediately.
Nutrition Information
The nutritional values can vary based on the exact ingredients and amounts used. In general, a Monte Cristo sandwich provides:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450-700 |
| Carbohydrates | 30-50g |
| Protein | 15-30g |
| Total Fat | 25-40g |
| Saturated Fat | 10-15g |
The high calorie, carb, fat and protein counts reflect the fried, layered sandwich’s indulgent nature. You can reduce the calorie content by using lower fat cheese, less oil for frying, and lighter batter ingredients.
Cost Analysis
Here is an approximate cost breakdown for a Monte Cristo sandwich:
| Ingredient | Cost |
|---|---|
| Bread | $0.50 |
| Ham | $2 |
| Turkey | $2 |
| Swiss Cheese | $1 |
| Eggs | $0.50 |
| Milk | $0.25 |
| Oil | $0.25 |
| Total | $6.50 |
The deli meats tend to be the most expensive components. Buying them on sale and using leftover meats can help reduce costs. Making four sandwiches from one loaf of bread also maximizes value.
Storing and Reheating
Monte Cristo sandwiches are best enjoyed freshly made but leftovers can be stored and reheated.
Storage
- Allow sandwiches to cool completely before storing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating
- Preheat oven to 300°F.
- unwrap sandwich and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes until hot and crispy.
- Alternatively, microwave for 60-90 seconds.
The baked method helps restore the sandwich’s signature crunchiness. Microwaving makes the bread soggy but can be quicker.
Where to Enjoy Monte Cristo Sandwiches
You can find excellent Monte Cristo sandwiches at these spots across the United States:
California
- J&P’s Lunchbox — Thousand Oaks — Classic Monte Cristo with ham, turkey, Havarti & American cheese
- London Tavern – Santa Cruz — Fried crispy with grilled chicken breast, BBQ sauce and Monterey Jack cheese
- The Bicycle Club — Buena Park — Served with strawberries and coffee cream sauce
New York
- The Thirsty Turtle — West Nyack — Option to add bacon to the ham and turkey layers
- Lazy Kate’s – Westfield — Monte Cristo sticks served deep-fried with raspberry and caramel sauces
- Any Way Cafe — Chinatown — Smaller bagel Monte Cristo sandwich, topped with powdered sugar
Louisiana
- The Hungry Wolf Café — Metairie — Choice of classic or Cajun Monty with cayenne battered turkey
- Royal Street Veranda — New Orleans — Sweet French toast style Monte Cristo
- Another Broken Egg – Shreveport — With ham, American and Swiss cheese, topped with powdered sugar
Conclusion
A Monte Cristo is the ultimate fried sandwich indulgence. It starts with a basic ham, turkey and Swiss stacked sandwich dipped in egg batter and fried crispy. The options for customizing are endless, from the bread, meats and cheeses to creative batters and sweet toppings. Served warm, this sandwich is deliciously crispy on the outside surrounding melty, savory layers within. The Monte Cristo has secured its place as a comforting yet craveable classic sandwich.