Transport yourself to France with this delicious French recipe of the classic Croque Monsieur.

Grilled bloomer bread filled with a blend of cheese, Wiltshire cured ham and creamy béchamel, topped with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg What more could you want?

A classic French comfort food, perfect for a lazy morning or late lunch time treat.

Croque Monsieur Ingredients

For the Béchamel:

• 50g of butter
• 50g of plain Flour
• 400ml of milk
• 100g of strong cheddar
• nutmeg to taste (at least a teaspoon!)

For the Croque:

• Two slices of brown or white bloomer bread
• 100g of strong cheddar
• 2 generous tablespoons of the béchamel
• 2 slices of cooked ham
• Generous pinch of nutmeg

How to Make Croque Monsieur

1. Melt butter in a pan and add flour, stir into a paste and as it thickens gradually add milk and keep stirring to create smooth sauce. Once smooth add nutmeg and cheese and keep stirring until all the cheese has melted and you have a smooth and creamy béchamel.
2. Then, toast the bread and spread a spoon of béchamel on each slice. Add two slices of ham to one slice and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Then add 50g of cheese to each slice and place side by side under the grill for about 3 minutes - Do not leave under the grill too long or it may burn!
3. When both sides are bubbling remove from grill and place cheese on top of the slice with ham.
4. Place on bread board, cut in half and serve. Finally, enjoy!

Remember you can get the ultimate version of this classic dish at your local Patisserie Valerie!