Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 dash ground nutmeg
  • 3/4 cup shredded Gouda cheese
  • 8 (3/4 inch thick) slices sourdough bread
  • 4 teaspoons butter
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 8 slices deli ham
  • 4 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

Method

  • Melt 1/4 cup butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  • Gradually stir the flour into the butter.
  • Add small portions of the cream and wine alternately, whisking after each addition to thicken before introducing the next amount.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  • Melt the cheese into the liquid in small amounts, stirring continually.
  • Reduce heat to low and keep sauce warm until using.
  • Place a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Spread 1/2 teaspoon of butter on one side of each slice of bread; spread about 1/2 tablespoon of Dijon mustard on the opposite side of each slice.
  • Assemble the sandwiches by placing four slices of bread, buttered side down, into the skillet.
  • Top each slice of bread with two slices of ham folded to completely fit on the bread; spoon equal amounts of the cheese sauce over the ham, reserving some of the sauce for later.
  • Place the remaining slices of bread, mustard side down, atop the ham and cheese.
  • Grill the sandwiches on each side until the bread is an even, golden brown color.
  • Spoon a little of the cheese sauce on top of each sandwich before serving.
  • Garnish each sandwich with 1 teaspoon of parsley.