Croque Madame

Warm sandwich with goat cheese and creamy egg yolk

Who can resist a warm, crispy sandwich filled with flavorful goat cheese and a creamy egg yolk? This recipe, inherited from times when vegetarianism was a lifestyle choice, transforms a simple sandwich into a refined delicacy. Far from classic recipes filled with cold cuts, this reinvented Croque Madame blends the simplicity of ingredients with rich flavor, perfect for a savory breakfast or a satisfying snack. Come discover how to prepare this culinary indulgence!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 1 sandwich

Ingredients:
- 2 slices of buttery French bread (choose fresh bread with a crispy crust)
- 2 teaspoons of butter (preferably unsalted for better salt control)
- 1 slice of goat cheese (choose a creamy cheese with an intense flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil (or fresh for an even more intense taste)
- 1 egg (fresh for the best results)
- Fresh salad for serving (a green salad or arugula are excellent options)

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by preparing all the ingredients. Make sure the bread is fresh and the goat cheese is at room temperature to melt evenly.

2. Assembling the sandwich: On one slice of bread, place the slice of goat cheese. Sprinkle the dried basil on top for added flavor. Cover with the second slice of bread, forming a sandwich.

3. Heating the pan: In a non-stick skillet, add a teaspoon of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Make sure the butter doesn’t burn, but melts evenly.

4. Cooking the sandwich: Place the sandwich in the skillet and gently press down with a spatula to toast evenly. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy, then carefully flip it to the other side. Continue to toast for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese starts to melt and the bread takes on a beautiful hue.

5. Preparing the egg: Once the sandwich is ready, remove it to a plate and keep it warm. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and let it melt. Carefully crack the egg into the skillet. Cook it on low heat so that the yolk remains creamy and soft, with a honey-like consistency. If you prefer a firmer egg, you can cook it longer, but remember that a creamy yolk is key to adding a delicious contrast to the sandwich.

6. Serving: Place the fried egg on top of the sandwich and serve immediately, alongside fresh salad to complete the meal.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to add a touch of flavor, you can add a few slices of fresh tomatoes or black olives inside the sandwich before frying it.
- Experiment with different types of cheese; feta or mozzarella can add a different and interesting taste.
- Make sure the skillet is not too hot to prevent burning the bread before the cheese melts.

Nutritional benefits:
This warm sandwich with goat cheese and creamy egg yolk is not only delicious but also nutritious. Goat cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and antioxidants, while the egg provides an important supply of B vitamins and high-quality protein. French bread offers essential carbohydrates for energy, and the salad adds fiber and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with various types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, but the taste will be different.

2. How can I make the sandwich spicier?
Add a few slices of hot pepper or a spicy sauce to give it a kick.

3. Can it be prepared in advance?
Although it’s best freshly cooked, you can prepare all the ingredients in advance and assemble the sandwich just before frying it.

Serving suggestions:
This warm sandwich pairs perfectly with fresh orange juice or aromatic coffee, offering a delicious start to the day. It can also be served as a quick snack during the day or as a light dinner, alongside a glass of dry white wine.

Let’s not forget that cooking is more than just an activity; it’s an art, a form of expression, and a way to connect with those around us. So enjoy every step of preparing this delicious warm sandwich with goat cheese and creamy egg yolk and share it with your loved ones!