Classic Jambon-Beurre Sandwich
How to Make France’s Beloved Jambon-Beurre Sandwich
Hello everyone! Today, I’m going to share a recipe for a quintessential French sandwich that’s incredibly easy to make at home: the ‘Jambon-Beurre’! ‘Jambon’ refers to thinly sliced ham, and ‘Beurre’ means butter. This sandwich, featuring a crusty yet chewy baguette filled with flavorful ham and creamy butter, is loved worldwide for its simple yet sophisticated taste. Experience a touch of French gastronomy in your own kitchen today!
Ingredients
- 1 Baguette (for 1 serving)
- Thinly sliced ham (Jambon) – as needed
- Unsalted or salted butter (room temperature) – as needed
- Cheese of your choice (e.g., Camembert, Brie) – 1-2 slices (optional)
- Fresh salad greens (e.g., Romaine, Arugula) – a small amount (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Gather all the ingredients needed to prepare your Jambon-Beurre sandwich. It’s especially helpful if your butter is at room temperature, making it much easier to spread on the bread. Ensure your ham is thinly sliced.
Step 2
Slice the baguette into sandwich-sized portions, typically about 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) long. Using a serrated knife will help you cut the bread cleanly without crushing it.
Step 3
To enhance the flavor of your Jambon-Beurre, lightly toast the baguette. You can bake it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 3-5 minutes until lightly golden, or toast it in a dry pan over medium-low heat until golden brown on both sides. This step adds a wonderful crispness.
Step 4
Using a butter knife or spatula, generously spread the softened butter onto one half of the toasted baguette. Feel free to adjust the amount of butter to your preference, but spreading it to coat the entire surface will significantly boost the flavor.
Step 5
Arrange the thinly sliced Jambon ham over the buttered bread, overlapping the slices as desired. You can add as much ham as you like for extra flavor. If you wish, you can also add slices of cheese at this stage. Top with the other half of the baguette to complete your basic Jambon-Beurre sandwich. It really is that simple!
Step 6
This finished Jambon-Beurre sandwich is excellent on its own, but adding fresh salad greens can create a more complex and refreshing taste. You can either tuck the greens inside the sandwich or serve them alongside. This combination helps to cut through any richness, making the sandwich a healthier and more vibrant option. Enjoy your simple yet sophisticated Jambon-Beurre sandwich!
