Francesinhas - cooking recipe

Ingredients

3 large onions, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup olive oil
1 cup water
2 bay leaves
1 lb ham, cut in pieces (mortadella or salami)
7 tablespoons flour
1 beer
3 ounces brandy
1 tablespoon tomato paste
Tabasco sauce (optional)
salt and pepper
1 egg, poached scrambed egg (optional)

Preparation

Fry the onions in the olive oil until translucent. Add the water, bay leaves and meats. Saute the beef, sausage and ham for about 2 minutes each side.
When the meats are done, transfer to a dish and remove the bay leaves from the pan. Puree the remaining contents of the pan. Return the pan to the heat
Using the beer,dissolve the flour and tomato paste into a cup, followed by the whisky or brandy, salt, hot sauce. Mix thoroughly, add to the pan and bring to a simmer.
Place 1 slice of bread on a plate or small bowl. Top it with the beef slices, sausage,sliced lengthwise followed with a scrambled egg if using. Add the top slice of bread followed by placing the slices of cheese on top and on the sides. If you prefer a poached egg, add it on top of the last slice of bread.
Spoon the very hot sauce over the top and sides of the sandwich, melting the cheese. Serve immediately. You will need a fork and knife.