I was going to call these “Cockman Shear Dippers,” but I thought people might come for me, so I’m going to call them Cheese and Ham Toasty Dippers instead. Despite the name change, these dippers are just as delicious and fancy-sounding as ever! These toasty dippers are quick and easy to make, filled with ham and melted cheese, dipped in an eggy batter, and toasted until golden. They are literally perfection and totally acceptable to eat at any time of the day. Dip them in your favorite sauce like ketchup and serve warm. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your favorite)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Butter or oil for frying
- Ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions
Preparing the Sandwiches
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Start by placing a slice of cheese on four slices of bread. Add a slice of ham on top of the cheese, then cover with the remaining slices of bread to make four sandwiches.
- Cut into Strips: Cut each sandwich into three or four strips, depending on the size of your bread. These strips will become your toasty dippers.
Making the Egg Batter
- Prepare the Batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until well combined. This eggy batter will give your dippers a deliciously crispy and golden exterior.
Cooking the Dippers
- Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil to coat the bottom.
- Dip the Sandwich Strips: Dip each sandwich strip into the egg batter, making sure to coat all sides. Let any excess batter drip off before placing the strips in the skillet.
- Cook Until Golden: Place the battered sandwich strips in the hot skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.
Serving
- Serve Warm: Once the dippers are cooked to perfection, transfer them to a serving plate. Serve warm with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Variations: Try different types of cheese like mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
- Bread Options: Use different kinds of bread like whole wheat, sourdough, or even brioche to change up the texture and flavor.
- Add-Ins: Add some mustard or mayonnaise inside the sandwiches for extra flavor. You can also add thin slices of tomato or a few spinach leaves for a bit of freshness.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the egg batter for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information
These Cheese and Ham Toasty Dippers provide a good balance of protein from the ham and cheese, carbohydrates from the bread, and fats from the egg batter and frying process. Adjust the amount of butter or oil used for frying to manage the calorie content based on dietary preferences.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover dippers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the dippers in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave as it may make the bread soggy.
These Cheese and Ham Toasty Dippers are a delightful and versatile snack or meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The combination of ham, melted cheese, and crispy egg-battered bread is simply irresistible. Share this recipe with your friends and family to spread the joy of this delicious treat. Enjoy these warm and comforting dippers, and see you in the next recipe!
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet snack with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting texture of these Cheese and Ham Toasty Dippers, a treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
