Hot Brown Delight

Ingredients

• 8 slices of thick-cut turkey breast (400g) 8 slices of thick-cut turkey breast (400g)
• 8 slices of bacon 8 slices of bacon
• 4 slices of thick-cut bread 4 slices of thick-cut bread
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30g) 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30g)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (16g) 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (16g)
• 1 cup whole milk (240ml) 1 cup whole milk (240ml)
• 1 cup Gruyere cheese, grated (100g) 1 cup Gruyere cheese, grated (100g)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (50g) 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (50g)
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat: 28g (14g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 20g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Place the bacon slices on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy. Set aside.
3. 3.
   In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 2 minutes to make a roux.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. 5.
   Add the Gruyere and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth.
6. 6.
   Season the sauce with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Toast the bread slices until golden brown.
8. 8.
   Arrange the turkey slices on top of the bread slices, followed by the bacon.
9. 9.
   Pour the cheese sauce over the turkey and bacon, ensuring they are fully covered.
10. 10.
    Place the assembled Hot Browns on a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
11. 11.
    Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Turkey — For a juicier and more flavorful turkey, marinate the slices in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before roasting.
• Gruyere cheese — Opt for aged Gruyere for a stronger and nuttier flavor in the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese — Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and texture.
• Nutmeg — Grate whole nutmeg for a more aromatic and intense flavor.
• Bacon — Choose thick-cut bacon for a crispier texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoky twist, try using smoked Gruyere cheese.
• Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the Mornay sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
• Serve the Hot Brown Delight with a side of mixed greens or a fresh tomato salad.
• Customize the dish by adding sliced avocado or roasted red peppers.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or paprika on top before broiling.

Serving advice

Serve the Hot Brown Delight as a main course for lunch or dinner. Accompany it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top of the broiled Hot Browns. Serve them on individual plates or a large platter for a family-style presentation.