Monte Cristo Where've You Been?

I first discovered this masterpiece with my friend Billy in the early 90's! We went to lunch at a Bennigan's which are hard to find these days, and Billy suggested it. I was immediately hooked! After all of the Bennigan's restaurants started closing, it became harder and harder to find this terrific sandwich. So with the help of the internet and a box of instant pancake mix, I now make it for myself.

I know that there are many variations of the recipe but this is my absolute favorite. Mostly because it's the first one that I initially had.

MY RECIPE -Preheat oven to 250 -Preheat oil or oil in deep fryer to 350-360 -cut crusts off of 3 pieces of your favorite sandwich bread (I use Honey Wheat) -Place 3/4 slices of deli meat turkey on one piece of bread and top with swiss cheese -add second piece of bread and top with swiss cheese and then 3/4 slices os deli meat ham then top with 2 more slices of swiss -Top with last piece of bread & secure with toothpicks (remove picks before serving) -in a 2.5 inch deep baking dish prepare instant pancake batter (the kind where just add water) -Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper -coat the sandwich in batter and then place in preheated oil for 4-7 minutes turning as needed to brown each side until crisp -place sandwiches on a baking sheet with a wire rack and put in oven to keep warm until ready to serve -I serve these with raspberry jam or blackberry jam with a dash of salt and pepper added -Sprinkle sandwiches with confectioner's sugar just lightly (Optional but delish) Serve with seasoned sweet potato fries or seasoned french fries. MMM MMM

I am in absolute lust with this meal but only have it once in a while! It is as filling as it is delicious and has more calories than I care to mention! But, it is truly a wonderful dish