Hot Brown Sandwich

Background

The Hot Brown Sandwich is a savory classic that originated in the early 20th century at The Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. This delectable open-faced sandwich was first created in 1926 by Chef Fred K. Schmidt as an indulgent alternative to the usual ham and egg late-night suppers. Over the decades, it has secured its fame through its delicious blend of ingredients and has become a staple in Southern cuisine.

The dish gained modern pop culture attention when it was featured on the popular TV series Mad Men, reminding viewers of the rich culinary tradition that surrounds this iconic sandwich. Its rise to fame aligns perfectly with the mid-century setting of the show, where indulgence and taste were key to dining experiences.

Ingredients

• Turkey: 1.5 pounds, roasted and sliced
• Texas Toast: 8 slices
• Butter: 1/2 cup, unsalted
• Flour: 1/3 cup, all-purpose
• Milk: 3 cups, whole
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded
• Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup
• Nutmeg: A pinch, ground
• Salt: To taste
• Black Pepper: To taste
• Tomato: 2, sliced
• Bacon: 8 strips, cooked crisp
• Paprika: For garnish
• Parsley: Fresh, chopped for garnish

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add flour, stirring until the mixture is smooth and has a golden color. This is your roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps, and cook until the sauce thickens.
5. Add in the Parmesan cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and heavy cream, stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce. Season with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Cooking Process

1. Toast the Texas toast to a light golden brown.
2. Place the toasted bread in a baking dish.
3. Layer each slice of toast with a generous portion of sliced turkey.
4. Pour the cheese sauce over the turkey and toast, making sure to cover them completely.
5. Place a slice of tomato on top of each sandwich.
6. Put the sandwiches in the preheated oven and cook for about 10-15 minutes, just until the sauce begins to bubble and the edges start to brown.
7. Remove and top each sandwich with two pieces of crispy bacon.
8. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the bacon to reheat and become crisp once again.

Serving Suggestions

Once baked to perfection, remove the Hot Brown Sandwiches from the oven. Sprinkle them with paprika for a hint of smoky flavor and garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a vibrant touch of color.

To enjoy, serve the Hot Brown Sandwich hot and consider pairing with a light, crisp salad to complement its rich and savory flavors. It's an ideal dish for a luxurious weekend brunch or a hearty dinner. Don't forget to share with friends or family and discuss the intriguing cultural history behind this timeless recipe.

Embrace the indulgence and richness of the Hot Brown Sandwich, a true testament to classic American cuisine.