A French Introduction

Monsieur, Madam; Madam, Monsieur. Now that we have that out of the way….

The Croque Monsieur is a delicious grilled jambon (ham) and fromage (cheese) sandwich. Not just a regular ham and cheese. Non. Even better. Traditionally made with a bechamel sauce and some more melted Gruyere cheese on top. It tastes even better than it looks. And if you are having a craving and are too far from France, you can satisfy it by trying this easy recipe, courtesy of Ina Garten from her Barefoot in Paris cookbook.

And the Croque Madam. Just a Croque Monsieur, with a fried egg on top.

Available at most French Cafes. Where have you gobbled up your favorite? And who can tell me what the name means?

Photo: Croque Monsieur and Croque Madam, quickly devoured at Cafe Hugo, Place des Vosges, Paris.

Geggie
October 29th, 2007
Well, croquer is “to crunch” and it is indeed a crunchy lil’ sandwich. I love the manly version as I’m not a fan of the ouef.
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Geggie-
Yes, you are correct! And I’m with you…not a fan of the drippy, gooey egg on top

Becca
October 29th, 2007
Such a perfect meal. And I love Ina Garten recipes.
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Becca,
Me too! I just love Ina. I have 3 of her cookbooks and I love watching her on Food Network. She is my fav on there…She and Jeffrey are just too cute
Robin

Paris Parfait
October 29th, 2007
And many brasseries add slices of tomato to the Croque Madam versions.
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Tara,
I had no idea! Thanks!

Maryann@FindingLaDolceVita
October 29th, 2007
yes..it means “pass some over here please”
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Maryann,
You’ve got me laughing at that one girl! I’m telling ya..they are goooooood!
xoxo
Robin

Jeni
October 29th, 2007
I’m more of the Monsieur type, too! I had a great one, several times, at a little French cafe on Belden Alley in San Francisco. But, I have yet to have one in Paris. (I guess that would be on my list of things to do before I die.)
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If I ever make it to San Fran again…I’ll have to look it up! Thanks Jeni