Recipe: Bennigans Monte Cristo Sandwich

BENNIGANS MONTE CRISTO SANDWICHES

"Bennigan's makes the most awesome Monte Cristo sandwiches. A great break from the usual toasted ham & cheese."

9 slices whole wheat bread
3 slices cooked turkey
3 slices cooked ham
3 slices American cheese
3 slices Swiss cheese
FOR THE BATTER:
1 egg
1 to 1 1/4 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 1/2 cups flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
vegetable oil (for deep frying)
powdered sugar (for serving)
raspberry jam (for serving)

Place turkey and Swiss cheese on one slice of bread and ham and American cheese on another slice of bread. Place third slice in-between and secure the triple-decker sandwich in the corners with tooth picks.

Place egg in mixing bowl, add water and beat together. Add salt, sugar, flour, and baking powder. Beat batter until smooth.

Dip sandwich in batter and carefully cover all the sides and surface.

Carefully place in hot oil and fry until golden. When sandwich has turned a warm gold color remove from hot oil and place on paper towel. Let cool for a few minutes before removing the tooth picks.

Before serving slice into fourths and sprinkle. with powdered sugar. Serve with Raspberry jam.

NOTES:
Accuracy wise this recipe is essentially spot-on....just a few adjustments. To make a true Monty Cristo EXACTLY as Bennigans does, use 1 1/2 oz (2 med slices) each of honey ham and smoked turkey, a commercial tempura mix (we use sun luck brand), and double-dip each half of the sandwich. be sure to fry each half after cutting, fry for 3 minutes 10 seconds, turning halfway through, and sprinkle the powdered sugar on RIGHT after taking from the oil.

Serves 3 , 3 sandwiches
Source: Mystery Girl / Recipezaar