Appetizer & Dessert

Vegan Croque Monsieur Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Name: Vegan Croque Monsieur Recipe – Great Meal Recipes
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 4 Bread Wholemeal Slices; 80 g Vegan cheese Shreds; 1/2 tsp Garlic Seasoning; 1/2 tsp Onion Powder; 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika Powder; 1/2 Eggplant; 1/2 tsp Celery Seasoning; 1 pinch Ground Nutmeg; 1 tsp Fresh Thyme Leaves; 2 tsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 1 tbsp Lemon Juice; 1 Bay Leaf; 1 tbsp Potato Starch; 250 mL Oat Beverage; 2 tsp Dijon Mustard

Barbara Brito March 19, 2025

Servings: 2 Total Time: 35 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When enjoying a vegan croque monsieur, it’s essential to select sides that enhance its rich flavors without overwhelming them. A fresh side salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the savory sandwich, balancing its richness beautifully.

Another excellent pairing is baked or air-fried sweet potato fries, which bring a delightful sweetness that complements the savory notes of the sandwich while adding a pop of color to your plate.

For a bit of sharpness, consider serving dill pickles on the side; their crunchy texture cuts through the creaminess of the vegan cheese and adds bright flavors that elevate your meal. With these simple yet delicious pairings, you’re all set to enjoy your croque monsieur!

Why This Recipe Works

1. Flavor-Packed Ingredients: This recipe uses a combination of vegan cheese shreds, spices, and fresh herbs. Each bite is a delightful medley of flavors. The smoked paprika adds depth, while the fresh thyme gives an earthy touch.

2. Texture Perfection: We use wholemeal bread, which crisp up beautifully when grilled. Coupled with a creamy cheese filling, you’ll experience a satisfying contrast in texture.

3. Versatile and Customizable: You can swap ingredients to match your palate. Don’t have eggplant? Use mushrooms instead! This adaptability makes it accessible for various dietary needs.

4. Quick and Easy Prep: I crafted this recipe for those of us who want great food without spending hours in the kitchen. From mixing ingredients to grilling, this meal comes together swiftly.

How Does It Taste?

Imagine biting into a warm sandwich with a crunchy exterior. The moment you sink your teeth in, the creamy vegan cheese perfectly melds with the spices. It’s savory, satisfying, and oh-so-comforting. The garlic seasoning and smoked paprika create a depth that keeps you coming back for more. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience.

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Vegan Croque Monsieur Variations?

Many vegans have attempted to recreate the croque monsieur with varying levels of success. What makes my version stand out is the balance of flavors and textures. The use of fresh herbs like thyme, along with the unique combination of spices, elevates it beyond just “another vegan sandwich.”

Rather than relying on just one source of creaminess, I incorporate both vegan cheese and a delightful oat beverage mixture. This gives the filling a creamy consistency while keeping it light and nutritious.

The Ingredients

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for this delightful recipe:

Wholemeal Bread Slices: 4
Vegan Cheese Shreds: 80g
Garlic Seasoning: ½ tsp
Onion Powder: ½ tsp
Smoked Paprika Powder: ½ tsp
Eggplant: ½ (finely chopped)
Celery Seasoning: ½ tsp
Ground Nutmeg: 1 pinch
Fresh Thyme Leaves: 1 tsp
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tsp
Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp
Bay Leaf: 1
Potato Starch: 1 tbsp
Oat Beverage: 250 mL
Dijon Mustard: 2 tsp

Instructions

Now, let’s make magic happen! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by heating a pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Once heated, toss in the finely chopped eggplant. Sauté for 5 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a bowl, mix the sautéed eggplant, vegan cheese, garlic seasoning, onion powder, smoked paprika, celery seasoning, ground nutmeg, lemon juice, and fresh thyme leaves. Stir in the oat beverage until creamy.

Step 3: Spread the Mustard

Take your slices of wholemeal bread. Spread a generous layer of Dijon mustard on one side of each slice. This adds another flavor dimension and a bit of tanginess.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

With the mustard side facing up, spoon the filling you made between two slices. Press them together gently to secure everything.

Step 5: Grill the Sandwich

Heat a non-stick skillet or panini press over medium heat. Brush the outside of the sandwich with olive oil. When the pan is hot, carefully place the sandwich. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the sandwich from the pan. Let it rest for a minute before slicing. Serve hot, and enjoy the glorious flavors!

Notes

Here are some extra tips to enhance your experience:

Spread the Filing Evenly: Make sure the filling is spread evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Choose the Right Bread: Wholemeal bread provides a great texture, but you can experiment with gluten-free options if needed.
Adjust the Level of Spice: If you like heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Don’t Skip the Mustard: The mustard adds a necessary tang that balances out the richness of the cheese.
Let it Rest: Letting the sandwich rest before serving ensures all the flavors meld well.

How to Store This Vegan Croque Monsieur?

If you happen to have leftovers, congratulations! To store them, simply place the sandwich in an airtight container. Refrigerate it, and it will last for about 2-3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, warm it in a skillet or a toaster oven to regain that satisfying crunch. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just ensure you wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in an airtight container.

Sides for Vegan Croque Monsieur

Let’s get back to what pairs excellently with your croque monsieur:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder, then roast until tender. The garlicky goodness complements the sandwich perfectly.

2. Classic Coleslaw: A simple coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy croque monsieur.

3. Tomato Soup: A rich tomato soup is not only comforting but also a classic pairing for sandwiches. Check if you have fresh tomatoes handy—blending them with basil and a bit of olive oil makes magic.

What Alternatives Can You Use for Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Don’t fret if you’re missing some ingredients! Here are alternatives you can try:

1. Vegan Cheese Alternatives: If you can’t find vegan cheese shreds, consider using cashew cheese or making a quick tahini-based cheese spread.

2. Eggplant Substitutes: No eggplant on hand? Zucchini or mushrooms can fill in for a similar texture and taste.

3. Mustard Choices: If Dijon mustard isn’t available, yellow mustard will work in a pinch, although you might lose some of that lovely tang.

4. Wholemeal Bread Options: Sourdough or gluten-free bread varieties work well too. It’s all about what you enjoy!

Conclusion

There you have it—my go-to vegan croque monsieur recipe. This dish is a celebration of flavors and textures that deliver comfort without sacrificing nutrition. It has become a staple in my kitchen, whether it’s for a rainy day or a sunny brunch. You can serve it at parties, gatherings, or simply enjoy it with your family.

Remember, this recipe encourages you to experiment. Get creative with your fillings and sides. Trust me, the results will impress you and your guests alike. Enjoy the process, embrace the flavors, and happy cooking!

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Vegan Croque Monsieur Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Author: Barbara Brito Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Rest Time 30 mins Total Time 35 mins

Servings: 2 Calories: 478 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

A rainy afternoon, cozy in the kitchen, with the smell of garlic seasoning wafting through the air. That’s when my fondness for French cuisine kicked into high gear. I stumbled upon croque monsieur, and my journey of transforming this classic dish into a vegan delight began.

Croque monsieur is a French sandwich consisting of ham and cheese, but there’s a whole world to explore with plant-based ingredients!

When I first attempted a vegan version, I was doubtful. Could I capture the same savory comfort without the dairy?

Spoiler alert: Not only did I succeed, but I also managed to create something delicious and memorable. This vegan croque monsieur is rich, cheesy, and just as satisfying, proving that plant-based food can hold its own.