Gotham Croquebundt

Introduction to Gotham Croquebundt

The Gotham Croquebundt is a creative fusion of the classic French dish croque monsieur and the whimsical American bundt cake. This recipe draws inspiration from the bustling streets of Gotham, where culinary innovation meets time-honored tradition. Originating in the heart of New York City, the Gotham Croquebundt is perfect for those who seek a hearty, savory dish with a touch of elegance. It's ideal for brunch gatherings, providing a substantial, yet sophisticated centerpiece.

Historical Background

The origin of the croque monsieur goes back to early 20th century Paris, often described as a 'ham and cheese sandwich with a twist.' On the other hand, the bundt cake became popular in America in the mid-20th century, celebrated for its beautifully intricate mold designs. The Gotham Croquebundt merges these two culinary worlds, bringing together rustic flavors and a dramatic presentation.

Ingredients

• Bread – 12 slices of sturdy brioche or sourdough
• Ham – 8 thin slices of high-quality, smoked
• Gruyère cheese – 2 cups, grated
• Milk – 2 cups, whole
• Eggs – 4 large
• Butter – 4 tablespoons, unsalted
• Flour – 2 tablespoons, all-purpose
• Nutmeg – a pinch, freshly grated
• Salt – to taste
• Pepper – to taste, freshly ground
• Parsley – chopped, for garnish
• Dijon mustard – 2 tablespoons

Preparation

Before starting, gather all your ingredients and set the oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large bundt pan by greasing it generously with butter.

Bechamel Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add flour, whisking continuously to form a smooth paste or roux.
2. Slowly add milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Once the sauce thickens, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assembly

Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each slice of bread. Cut the slices in half.

• Layer the bottom of the prepared bundt pan with slices of bread.
• Add a layer of ham and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
• Repeat layers of bread, ham, and Gruyère cheese, until the ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of cheese.

Final Steps

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs. Pour this mixture over the layered bread and ham, ensuring it evenly soaks through.

Cooking Process

1. Place the filled bundt pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven.
2. Bake for approximately 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
3. Allow to cool slightly before inverting onto a serving platter.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish the Gotham Croquebundt with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm, with a side of green salad or French onion soup for a complete meal. Perfectly paired with a crisp white wine or a sparkling non-alcoholic cider for a refreshing contrast.

Enjoy this unique dish with its crispy edges and creamy, cheesy core, celebrating the best of French and American culinary traditions in every bite.