Croque-Monsieur French Toast is the perfect addition for a Valentines Day brunch ~ layers of Ham, Cheese and Bechamel Sauce on a slice of French Toast - heavenly !
Bechamel Sauce – In a small microwavable bowl, heat the Milk, Bay Leaves and Garlic until just warm – remove from microwave oven (can use stove top too) and set aside. (Strain just before use in step 2)
Meanwhile melt the Butter in a small saucepan over medium heat – stir in the Flour and cook 1 – 2 minutes, stirring continuously – remove from heat and add the strained Milk little by little, stirring well in between each addition until smooth – heat again over low heat until thickened
Pour in the Brandy, flambe, stir and season to taste with Salt and Black Pepper – cover and set aside
FRENCH TOAST:
Beat together the Eggs, Milk and Salt in a medium bowl
Melt a tablespoon or two of Butter in a skillet over medium heat – dip the slices of French Loaf in the Egg mixture and cook both sides until done – add more Butter as you go along until all the slices are toasted (fried)
Set the oven on grill and line 2 baking sheets with baking paper
Transfer the French Toast to the two sheets leaving plenty of space between slices
TOPPINGS:
Top each French Toast with a slice of Gypsy Ham – sprinkle over some Gruyere Cheese and place under the grill until the Cheese has melted – remove from the oven and pour the Bechamel Sauce over each French Toast – return to the oven for another minute or two
Nutrition value, where given, is not always accurate. Please also check your ingredient labels.