Frederic Melton
A ham and cheese melt is a sandwich that typically consists of ham, cheese, and butter, grilled on a skillet. The sandwich can be layered in several ways, depending on personal preference. One common method is to spread butter on one side of a slice of bread and place it buttered-side down in the pan. Then, add cheese, followed by ham, and another layer of cheese. Finally, top it off with another slice of bread, buttered on the outer side. This sandwich can be grilled slowly over medium-low heat until the cheese melts and the bread turns golden brown. Some people like to add condiments such as mustard, mayonnaise, or honey mustard, and toppings such as tomatoes, black olives, or pickles.
Characteristics and Values of a Ham and Cheese Melt
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bread | White, whole grain, croissant |
| Spread | Butter, mayonnaise, honey mustard |
| Cheese | Cheddar, Swiss, American |
| Ham | Black forest, shaved, smoked |
| Toppings | Tomato, arugula, egg, black olives, pickles, banana peppers |
| Cooking Method | Skillet, oven |
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What You'll Learn
Layering the ingredients
Next, layer the cheese and ham. It is recommended to add half of the cheese pieces first, spreading them evenly over the bread. Then, loosely fold and layer the ham slices, covering as much of the bread as possible. Finally, add the remaining cheese pieces over the ham. If you prefer, you can also add cheese on both sides of the sandwich, creating a 'ham sandwich' in the middle.
At this point, you can add other toppings or ingredients of your choice. For example, sliced tomatoes add extra moisture to the sandwich, while toppings like black olives, pickles, or banana peppers can provide a tangy crunch.
Finally, place the second slice of bread on top, with the buttered side facing up. If you are using mayonnaise, spread it on the outer side of the bread, and place it mayonnaise-side down in the pan.
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Condiments and toppings
Honey mustard is a classic choice for a ham and cheese melt. It provides a sweet tang that complements the savoury flavours of the ham and cheese. Spread a generous amount of honey mustard on the bread before layering the remaining ingredients. Spicy brown coarse-ground mustard is another option for those who prefer a bolder flavour.
Mayonnaise is another popular condiment for ham and cheese melts. It adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavour to the sandwich. Mayonnaise can be spread directly on the bread or used as a dipping sauce on the side. Some people also choose to grill the mayonnaise side of the sandwich down, allowing the mayonnaise to become crispy and golden brown.
If you're feeling adventurous, horseradish can add a spicy kick to your ham and cheese melt. It pairs well with the smoky flavour of the ham. Alternatively, consider adding a slice of tomato, which contributes extra moisture and a fresh taste to the sandwich.
When it comes to toppings, black olives, pickles, and banana peppers can add a briny, savoury note to the sandwich. These toppings are especially good if you're looking for a more substantial and flavourful bite.
Lastly, consider adding some arugula or rocket leaves to your ham and cheese melt. These leafy greens provide a peppery flavour and a nutritious boost to the sandwich. They can be added fresh on top of the sandwich or inside, allowing the leaves to wilt slightly from the heat.
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Type of bread
The type of bread used for a ham and cheese melt can vary depending on personal preference and the desired outcome. Here are some options:
Sliced Bread
Sliced bread is a common choice for a ham and cheese melt. It can be white or whole grain bread, depending on your preference. Whole grain bread, such as 9-grain bread with seeds, can add a nice texture and flavour to the sandwich. Sliced bread is easy to work with and allows for even layering of the ingredients. It is also convenient if you want to make multiple sandwiches.
Croissants
Using croissants instead of regular bread can take your ham and cheese melt to the next level. Croissants provide a flaky and buttery texture that pairs well with the melted cheese and ham. They create a more indulgent and classy sandwich experience. The croissant can be split and spread with mustard and mayonnaise to enhance the flavour.
Rolls
Using rolls or small baguettes is another option for a ham and cheese melt. You can lightly spread a mixture of your choice on the cut roll, add the ham, some dressing, and grated cheese, and then wrap the sandwiches individually in foil before baking. This method is great if you want to make individual servings that are easy to eat and can be packed for lunches or picnics.
Texas Toast
Texas toast, which is a thicker-cut bread, can be used for a heartier ham and cheese melt. It provides a more substantial base for the sandwich and can be grilled or toasted to create a crispy texture. Texas toast can be paired with various cheeses and condiments, such as honey mustard or mayonnaise, to create a flavourful and satisfying sandwich.
The key to a successful ham and cheese melt is to choose a bread that complements the other ingredients and creates a harmonious blend of flavours and textures. Whether it's sliced bread, croissants, rolls, or thicker options like Texas toast, the bread sets the foundation for the sandwich and contributes to its overall enjoyment.
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Type of ham
The type of ham you choose for your ham and cheese melt can make a big difference in terms of flavour and texture. Using a local butcher's ham is recommended by some, with Black Forest ham being a good option. Ordering it shaved can keep the sandwich tender and create more surface area for the flavours to blend.
However, you can also use leftover holiday ham or turkey for your melt. If you want to add a little extra moisture to the sandwich, you could add a tomato slice.
If you are making a croque-monsieur, you could use Swiss cheese, mustard, and a little mayonnaise. Or, for a sweet tang, you could spread honey mustard on your bread.
For a traditional ham and cheese melt, you could use American cheese.
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Type of cheese
The type of cheese you use in your ham and cheese melt is important, as it can make or break the dish. The cheese should be something that melts easily and has a good, strong flavour. Cheddar is a popular choice for ham and cheese melts, as it has a sharp, tangy flavour and melts well. Swiss cheese is another option, as it has a mild, nutty flavour and melts easily. American cheese is also a common choice, as it has a creamy texture and a mild flavour that pairs well with ham.
If you're feeling adventurous, you could try using a more pungent cheese, like a blue cheese or a sharp cheddar. These cheeses will add a bold, savoury flavour to your melt. You could also experiment with different types of cheese combinations to find your favourite. For example, a mix of mozzarella and cheddar or Swiss and Gruyere can add a creamy, rich dimension to your sandwich.
The texture of the cheese is also important. It should be grated or shredded to ensure it melts evenly and quickly. If you're using a block of cheese, take it out of the fridge about 10 minutes beforehand to bring it to room temperature. This will help it melt more easily and create a gooey, drippy texture.
In addition to the type of cheese, the amount you use is also important. You don't want the cheese to overwhelm the other ingredients, so use just enough to create a good ratio. Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of cheese to your liking.
Overall, the key to choosing the right cheese for your ham and cheese melt is to select something that melts well and has a flavour you enjoy. Experiment with different types of cheese and find the perfect match for your taste buds!
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Frequently asked questions
You can use whichever bread you prefer, but whole grain bread with seeds is a popular choice. If you're feeling fancy, you can use croissants instead of bread to take your sandwich to the next level.
First, butter one side of a slice of bread and place it butter-side down in a pan. Then, add cheese, ham, and more cheese. Finally, add another slice of bread, buttered on the top-facing side.
You can add condiments such as mustard, honey mustard, or mayonnaise. You can also add toppings such as black olives, pickles, banana peppers, or a tomato slice for extra moisture.
