Ingredients
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons (2 1/2 ounces) finely grated Gruyere cheese
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
4 slices country bread, toasted (each 1/2 inch thick)
2 small tomatoes, sliced 1/4 inch thick
Preparation
Preheat broiler. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add shallot, and cook until tender, about 2 minutes. Add flour, and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Whisk in milk, and cook, stirring frequently, until thick, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in 2 tablespoons cheese. Season with salt and pepper, and let cool slightly.
Spread remaining 3 tablespoons butter on bread, and top each slice with 2 tablespoons cheese sauce and 3 tomato slices. Season with salt and pepper. Divide remaining 1/2 cup cheese among sandwiches, and place under broiler. Cook until bubbling and golden brown, about 1 minute. Let cool slightly, season with pepper, and serve immediately.
