Delice Lorraine: Savory Crepes with Ham and Cheese

My grandmother, a woman of few words but immense culinary talent, had a way of making simple ingredients sing. I remember one rainy afternoon, the scent of warm butter and melting cheese wafting from her kitchen. She was making something she called “crepes,” a dish I’d never seen before. The combination of delicate pancakes, savory ham, and gooey cheese was an instant revelation. It was comfort food elevated, a testament to the magic that could be created with humble ingredients and a loving hand. These memories sparked a life-long love of crepes, and while I’ve experimented with countless fillings, this classic ham and cheese combination, reminiscent of that first bite in my grandmother’s kitchen, remains a perennial favorite.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Yield: 4-6 crepes
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 4-6 crepes (made from your favorite recipe)
• 4-6 slices ham (thinly sliced)
• 12-16 tablespoons Edam cheese (or you could use Colby or a mild Cheddar), grated
• 12-16 tablespoons additional grated cheese (such as Gruyere or Parmesan)
• 4-6 tablespoons heavy cream
• Chopped parsley, to serve

Equipment Needed

• Baking dish
• Grater
• Grill or broiler

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or broiler to high heat. Ensure your oven rack is positioned close to the heat source, but not so close that the crepes will burn.

2. Lay the crepes out flat on a clean work surface.

3. Top each crepe with a slice of thinly sliced ham, ensuring the ham is evenly distributed.

4. Sprinkle 3-4 tablespoons of Edam cheese (or your chosen cheese) over the ham on each crepe.

5. Carefully roll up each crepe tightly, creating a cylindrical shape that resembles a large cigar. Try to tuck in the edges as you roll to prevent the filling from escaping.

6. Place the rolled crepes seam-side down in a baking dish that is large enough to hold them in a single layer. This prevents overcrowding and ensures even cooking.

7. Top each crepe with another 3-4 tablespoons of the additional grated cheese. A combination of cheeses adds depth of flavor.

8. Pour 1 tablespoon of heavy cream over each crepe. The cream adds richness and helps the cheese melt beautifully.

9. At this point, the crepes can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

10. Just before serving, place the baking dish under the preheated grill or broiler.

11. Broil until the cheese on top has melted and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning. The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown.

12. Remove the baking dish from the oven and serve the Delice Lorraine immediately.

13. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Crepe Perfection: For the best results, use homemade crepes. If using store-bought, choose high-quality, thin crepes.
• Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. Gruyere, Emmental, or a sharp cheddar would also work well.
• Preventing Soggy Crepes: Avoid overfilling the crepes, as this can lead to a soggy texture. A light layer of ham and cheese is all you need.
• Even Browning: Rotate the baking dish occasionally while broiling to ensure even browning of the cheese.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the crepes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is a great way to save time when entertaining.
• Broiler Beware: Keep a close eye on the crepes while broiling, as they can burn quickly. Adjust the oven rack if needed to control the heat.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Delice Lorraine immediately after broiling for the best flavor and texture. The warm, melted cheese and savory ham are incredibly satisfying. They make a wonderful light lunch, brunch, or even a simple dinner.

Leftover Delice Lorraine can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the crepes may become slightly soggy. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the crepes and cheese may change upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	320 kcal	16%
Total Fat	20g	31%
Saturated Fat	12g	60%
Cholesterol	75mg	25%
Sodium	550mg	23%
Total Carbohydrate	15g	5%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	3g	–
Protein	20g	40%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crepes for a gluten-free version of this dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a touch of heat.
• Herby Goodness: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives into the crepe batter or cheese filling.
• Different Cheeses: Try using different types of cheese such as Gruyere, Emmental, or Fontina for a unique flavor profile.
• Protein Power: Swap the ham for cooked chicken or turkey for a leaner protein option.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I prepare the crepes ahead of time?
A: Yes, absolutely! Crepes can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator, well-wrapped, until you’re ready to assemble the Delice Lorraine.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Gruyere, Emmental, or a sharp cheddar would all be delicious.

Q: What if I don’t have a grill or broiler?
A: You can bake the Delice Lorraine in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Q: Can I freeze the Delice Lorraine?
A: While you can freeze them, the texture may change upon thawing. The crepes might become a bit soggy, and the cheese could become grainy. It’s best to enjoy them fresh.

Q: How can I prevent the crepes from burning under the broiler?
A: Keep a close eye on the crepes while broiling and adjust the oven rack if needed to control the heat. You can also tent the baking dish with foil if the cheese is browning too quickly.

Final Thoughts

Now it’s your turn to create your own memories with this delightful Delice Lorraine. Whether you stick to the classic ham and cheese combination or experiment with your own creative fillings, I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought me over the years. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in a truly comforting and satisfying dish. And don’t forget to share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear about your own Delice Lorraine adventures! Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of dry white wine for a complete and elegant meal.