When in France...! The French love it and it's the perfect match snack - here's the recipe for tasty and easy croque monsieur.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 4 slices firm white sandwich bread
  • 4 ounces thinly sliced Black Forest ham
  • 4 ounces sliced Gruyère cheese
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh chives

Method:

  1. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add flour and stir 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk.
  3. Add nutmeg and bay leaf. Increase heat to medium-high and boil until sauce thickens, whisking constantly, about 2 minutes.
  4. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Preheat broiler. Place 2 bread slices on work surface.
  6. Top each with half of ham and sliced Gruyère. Top with remaining bread. Heat heavy large skillet over low heat.
  7. Brush sandwiches with 1 tablespoon melted butter. Add to skillet and cook until deep golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.
  8. Transfer to small baking sheet.
  9. Spoon sauce, then grated cheese over sandwiches. Broil until cheese begins to brown, about 2 minutes.

Recipe from Epicurious.