Madame Cristo - Grilled Ham and Cheese

Ingredients and Weight:

• 8 slices of cooked ham (about 200g each)
• 8 slices of cheese (your choice, about 100g each)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 teaspoons of salt
• 1 teaspoon of fresh ground pepper
• 1 pack of puff pastry sheets (2 sheets)
• 1 beaten egg for sealing the pastry
• 1 egg yolk for brushing on top (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 30 minutes
• Cooking: 20-25 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Take the puff pastry sheets out of the refrigerator to let them warm up slightly.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry sheets slightly if needed.
4. Cut each sheet into four equal squares.
5. Place a slice of ham on each pastry square, followed by a slice of cheese.
6. Fold the pastry over the ham and cheese, sealing the edges with the beaten egg.
7. Place on a baking sheet and brush with beaten egg yolk for a golden finish (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed up.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Nutritional Information: (Based on average values, may vary depending on specific ingredients used)

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving (assuming 2 slices per serving)
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 20g

Dish Characteristics:

• A classic American-style grilled dish, combining the flavors of ham and cheese with a crispy, flaky pastry.
• Ideal for a special occasion or as a weekend treat.
• Great as a lunch or dinner dish with family or friends.

User Comments:

1. "Love the combination of flavors! The pastry is so crispy and the ham and cheese are perfect."
2. "This dish is a real crowd-pleaser! Everyone loved it at my party."
3. "I used different types of cheese and it was still delicious. Great recipe!"
4. "A great dish for a weekend breakfast or brunch with family."
5. "Make sure to seal the edges well, otherwise the pastry will open up during baking."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Ensure the pastry is not too cold when handling, or it may be difficult to shape.
• Use a good quality puff pastry for best results.
• Brush the beaten egg yolk on top for a golden, crispy finish (optional).
• Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent leakage during baking.