Monti Cristo ~ Its all Guy Food

I discovered that most bread has a short shelf life. And, I discovered that you can make a quick gourmet meal using up that one or two day old bread - The Monte Cristo Sandwich!

If you haven't heard of the Monte Cristo, then you are being introduced. The traditional Monte Cristo is a ham or turkey sandwich that is battered and fried. For a light crispy batter, add 12 ounces of beer, 1 cup club soda water and 1 tbs baking powder to 1 cup cornstarch and 2 cups flour.

Make your sandwich like you would normally (plenty of meat and cheese)... though, do not put fresh tomato or greens on at this point since you will be frying in hot oil.  In a large skillet, heat your cooking oil (1inch deep). Batter up your sandwiches, and fry, turning then over to get both sides.  Once brown on both sides, transfer the sandwiches to a warm oven and keep going til you have as many as you need.

These little lovelies are a brainy guy's gourmet. I suggest staking them on a plate and drizzling both savory and sweet oils/dressings (Smoky Hot Raspberry Chipotle) over the top and around the plate edges, toss on a sprig of fresh green. Or, put out a small dish of creamy garlic sauce for dipping.

Amazing as in Awesome ~ Exceptionnelle!