🇩🇪 Germany · Food
Strammer Max (Open-faced Sandwich with Ham and Fried Egg)
By eatmundo · July 6, 2026
A simple yet satisfying German open-faced sandwich, Strammer Max is a beloved hearty snack or light meal. Crispy pan-fried bread is topped with savory slices of ham and crowned with a perfectly fried egg, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Prepare the Bread: Heat a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter (or use oil). Place 2 slices of rye or sourdough bread in the pan and toast them until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove bread and set aside on a plate.
- 2
Fry the Ham: In the same pan, lay 2 slices of cooked ham flat. Briefly fry them for about 30-60 seconds per side, just until they are slightly warmed through and their edges begin to curl. Remove the ham and place one slice on each toasted bread slice.
- 3
Fry the Eggs: Crack 2 large eggs directly into the hot pan. Fry them sunny-side up, over medium heat, for about 2-3 minutes, until the egg whites are fully set and the yolks are still runny. You can cover the pan for the last minute if you prefer the yolks to be slightly less runny or if you like a lightly cooked top.
- 4
Season the Eggs: Season the fried eggs generously with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- 5
Assemble and Garnish: Carefully place one fried egg on top of each ham-covered bread slice. The runny yolk will naturally coat the ham and bread.
- 6
Serve Immediately: For an authentic touch, garnish with 2 sliced gherkins and a sprinkle of 1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives, if desired. Serve Strammer Max immediately while the egg is still warm and the yolk is perfectly runny. Enjoy this quick and comforting German classic!
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of bread is traditionally used for Strammer Max, and how should it be prepared?+
Traditionally, a hearty rye bread (Roggenbrot) or mixed rye-wheat bread is preferred. It's often lightly toasted or fried in butter until golden and crisp to provide a stable base.
What kind of cooked ham is best suited for an authentic Strammer Max?+
For an authentic taste, use a rustic, flavorful cooked ham, such as a quality smoked ham (like Schwarzwälder Schinken if available, or a good quality regular cooked ham). The ham is usually gently warmed on top of the bread.
How should the fried egg be cooked for Strammer Max to achieve the classic result?+
The fried egg should have a set white but a runny or very soft yolk. This allows the yolk to gently coat the ham and bread when broken, adding richness to each bite.
How are the gherkins and chives incorporated into Strammer Max, and are there any common variations?+
Gherkins are typically sliced and placed on top or alongside, providing a tangy contrast. Fresh chives are finely chopped and sprinkled over the egg as a garnish, though some variations might use parsley.
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