Air-Fried Monte Cristo: A Crispy, Golden Treat?

The Monte Cristo sandwich is a delightful combination of sweet and savoury flavours and gooey, crisp textures. Traditionally, it is a ham and cheese sandwich that is battered and fried. However, it can also include turkey and be cooked in an air fryer for a healthier alternative. The air fryer gives the sandwich a crispy exterior while keeping the inside warm and gooey. This sandwich is usually served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of fruit preserves for dipping.

How to make a Monte Cristo sandwich in an air fryer

A Monte Cristo sandwich is a "French toasted ham and cheese sandwich". It combines the sweet taste of French toast with the salty flavour of ham and Swiss cheese. It is traditionally served with powdered sugar and a fruit preserve, but there are many variations.

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to make a Monte Cristo sandwich in an air fryer:

• Bread (white, sourdough, Texas toast, brioche, challah, or honey wheat)
• Ham
• Turkey
• Swiss cheese
• American cheese (optional)
• Gruyere cheese (optional)
• Egg
• Milk
• Vanilla extract (optional)
• Half-and-half (optional)
• Salt (optional)
• Ground nutmeg (optional)
• Dry mustard (optional)
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Powdered sugar
• Fruit preserves (such as raspberry, strawberry, or blackberry jam)
• Toothpicks
• Butter (optional)
• Cooking spray (optional)
• Parchment paper (optional)

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 370-380°F.
• Assemble the sandwich by layering cheese, ham, and turkey between two slices of bread. Secure the sandwich with toothpicks.
• Prepare the batter by mixing egg, milk, and vanilla extract (if using) in a shallow bowl. You can also add a little salt and ground nutmeg to the batter. The batter should be thick.
• Dip the sandwich in the batter, coating both sides. Let the batter soak into the bread for about 30 seconds on each side.
• Place the sandwich in the air fryer basket, either directly or on a piece of parchment paper. You can brush the top of the sandwich with melted butter for extra browning.
• Air fry at 370-380°F for 7-10 minutes, then flip the sandwich and cook for an additional 3-8 minutes, until the sandwich is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
• Remove the sandwich from the air fryer and sprinkle with powdered sugar. Serve with fruit preserves on the side for dipping.

Tips

• You can add a bit of jam or spicy mustard inside the sandwich before cooking if desired.
• If you want to reheat any leftovers, it is best to use the air fryer or oven to restore the sandwich's crispness. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the sandwich soggy.
• If you are concerned about the fillings sliding around, consider adding a toothpick through the sandwich halves to keep them together.

The history of the Monte Cristo sandwich

The Monte Cristo sandwich is a variation of the classic French croque-monsieur, a grilled ham and cheese sandwich. The croque-monsieur was first served in a Parisian cafe and was made with Gruyere cheese and lean ham layered between two slices of crustless bread, fried in clarified butter.

The Monte Cristo was first mentioned in an American restaurant industry publication in 1923, though it didn't gain popularity until later. From the 1930s to the 1960s, American cookbooks featured similar sandwiches under various names, including the "French sandwich", "toasted ham sandwich", and "French toasted cheese sandwich".

The sandwich is rumoured to have been invented in the 1940s in San Diego's Coronado Hotel, though it's unclear how it made its way from the bistros of Paris to California. It was first served under the name "The Monte Cristo" in Southern California in the 1950s, and it gained even more popularity when it was added to the menu at Disneyland in 1966.

The Monte Cristo is typically made with ham, turkey or chicken, and Swiss cheese between slices of white bread, dipped in beaten egg and fried. Regional variations may include caramelised onions or sliced turkey, and it can be served grilled or as an open sandwich. Sweeter variations are often covered in powdered sugar and served with maple syrup or preserves.

How to reheat a Monte Cristo sandwich

If you have any leftover Monte Cristo sandwiches, you can reheat them in the air fryer at 350ºF for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will restore the crispy outer texture and re-melt the filling.

Alternatively, you can heat them on a baking sheet in the oven for about 10 minutes. However, it is not recommended to reheat them in the microwave, as this can make the sandwiches soggy.

What to serve with Monte Cristo sandwiches

Monte Cristo sandwiches are a sweet and savoury combination, so a side dish that cuts through the richness of the sandwich is a good idea. A crisp, refreshing salad is a popular choice, with balsamic or lemon-based dressings to add a tangy twist.

A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a great go-to side dish, and you can add nuts or fruit for extra flavour and texture. A three-bean salad is another option, or a side salad with grape tomatoes and sliced cucumbers.

If you're looking for something a little more indulgent, you could try crispy parmesan garlic potatoes, or sweet potato fries with a spicy mayo dip.

For a healthier option, roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts are a great choice, and fruit always makes a simple, refreshing side.

If you're looking for a more substantial side, you could try a baked mac and cheese, or crockpot black-eyed peas.

And if you're after a real treat, maple-glazed bacon will add a sweet and salty twist to your meal.

How to secure a Monte Cristo sandwich

To secure a Monte Cristo sandwich, you can use toothpicks to stab and hold together the corners of the sandwich. This will prevent the sandwich from opening or ingredients from sliding out during the air frying process.

Some recipes suggest that you remove the toothpicks before serving, while others suggest leaving them in.

Frequently asked questions