Croque Monsieur

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What is this Croque Monsieur we often see on casual menus?
(It translates as Mr. Croque. It might be linked to the verb “croquer” = to bite into, to crunch).
Well, it’s a simple idea with a fancy name, maybe, but very tasty and very popular. Basically, it’s a hot toasted sandwich with ham and melted cheese. But, it’s a good quality cheese, like Emmentaler, not the awful fake orange, processed variety found in much of USA cooking (my opinion).
For the basic Croque Monsieur, place a thick slice of ham between 2 slices of white bread, top with lots of cheese (sometimes grated, sometimes thinly sliced). Put in toaster oven till brown and crunchy on top, and serve with a green lettuce salad.
And what about the Croque Madame (Madam Croque)? This is the same as the above, with the addition of a fried egg on top.
There are also special variations, depending on the restaurant or the area. Two that I’ve seen and tried are:
Croque campagnard, which is one thick slice of rye bread instead of white bread.
Croque chavignolais, which is a croque monsieur topped with round slices of goat cheese as well (from ‘Chavignol”, an area south of Paris that produces famous little round goat cheeses).
Delicious, and perfect for a light lunch.
Prices vary from about €6-10, depending on location.
(A croque and salad)
(this croque chavignolais has a special salad too with bacon bits)