Jambon Beurre like a Parisian

Featured photo credit: Weekender

Paris, the city of lights, is renowned for its culinary excellence, and among the countless delights that grace its streets, the humble yet extraordinary jambon beurre holds a special place. This classic French ham and butter sandwich has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike. You may be wondering how a sandwich as simple as jambon beurre could be so darn satisfying? Let’s dive into the delicious simplicity of this French classic. 🇫🇷

The French Love Affair:

In the heart of French gastronomy, the jambon beurre isn’t just a sandwich. It’s an experience that encapsulates the essence of the country’s culinary artistry. So why do Parisians love this unassuming treat? It’s not just about the incredible flavor; it’s about affordability. In a city known for its high living costs, this sandwich offers a delicious escape that won’t break the bank. 🤑

A Veritable Pillar of French Cuisine:

Jambon beurre isn’t just your average sandwich; it’s like a French food mascot, deeply tied to their culinary soul. In the world of French eats, it’s the poster child for keeping it simple yet classy, shouting out their love for top-notch ingredients and old-school recipes. 🍞

Perfect Harmony of Flavors:

At the heart of every outstanding jambon beurre lies a delicate balance of flavors. The simplicity of the sandwich is deceptive; it’s a masterpiece where each element plays a crucial role. A crusty baguette (food history buffs, you should check out its origin), high-quality butter, and savory ham mesh perfectly together to create a sandwich you didn’t know you needed.

Recommended Ingredients for the Perfect Jambon Beurre:

🥖 Baguette:

A jambon beurre’s success begins with a crusty, freshly baked baguette. The exterior should be golden and crispy, providing the perfect contrast to the soft, airy texture within. Parisians appreciate the artistry of a well-made baguette, as it sets the stage for the entire sandwich experience. In fact while you’re visiting the city you should take the time to learn how to make your own French baguettes so that you can enjoy the taste of Paris at home.

🧈 Butter:

The butter used is no ordinary spread—it’s French butter, with a rich and creamy consistency that elevates the sandwich to a level of unparalleled indulgence. Parisians savor the luxuriousness it adds, as well as the sandwich’s moreish nature. If you’ve ever taken a croissant baking class, you already know what a FUNDAMENTAL ingredient this is for the French. .

🍖 Ham:

The star of the show, ham, takes center stage. Parisians insist on the highest quality, opting for well-cured, flavorful ham that brings depth to every bite. To make your sandwich into a real treat head to your local butcher (if it’s at a French Market even better 😉).

Recommended Places to Savor a Jambon Beurre in Paris:

Caractère de Cochon (42 Rue Charlot, 75003 Paris)

This is THE address for a good jambon beurre, behind the charcuterie that you’ll find here, is a specialist in all things pork, who puts his heart into his work with a wide variety of hams (white, stuffed with truffle, black from Bigorre, Basque, Corsican…), sausages and hocks. In the heart of the marais district you’ll find your meaty sandwich made in heaven. It’s the ultimate stop for a grab and go yet fairly luxurious jambon beurre.

Racines: Fromagerie du quartier (2 Rue Ferdinand Flocon)

This stop is not only a fantastic place for a good jambon buerre, with the ham freshly sliced from their in-shop deli counter. They also have a delicious and dizzying amount of cheese options in case you’d like to pick up a raclette and charcuterie plate for after your quick bite. This place is the stuff French apéro dreams are made of!

Le Severo (8 Rue des Plantes, 75014 Paris):

Known for its exceptional meat offerings, Le Severo crafts a jambon beurre that’s a carnivore’s dream. The ham, sourced meticulously, pairs perfectly with their house-made baguette.

Boulangerie du Square (50 Rue Hermel, 75018 Paris)

This bakery-pastry shop near the 18th district town hall isn’t easy to spot, but it’s definitely worth seeking out. Its unassuming white exterior hides a treasure trove of high-quality, fresh, seasonal, and homemade products, all reasonably priced. From bread crafted with organic Île-de-France flours – making the jambon beurre of course – to buttery AOP croissants with a delightful crispiness.

Le Petit Vendôme (8 Rue des Capucines, 75002 Paris):

Tucked away in the heart of Paris, Le Petit Vendôme is a hidden gem renowned for its classic jambon beurre. The simplicity of their preparation allows the quality of each ingredient to shine through.

Boulangerie Bo (85bis Rue de Charenton, 75012 Paris):

Some of you may have fond memories of this place from your 5 day Parisian extravaganza with Let’s Eat Paris, but for those of you who have yet to discover this gem you should absolutely head over for delicate pastries, breads and lunch treats. You can get your fresh bread at the boulangerie and then head to marché aligre for the perfect ham.

Jambon beurre isn’t just a sandwich; it’s like a taste trip through the heart of French food. When you’re strolling around Paris, don’t miss out on grabbing this classic treat. Sink your teeth into the perfect mix of a crunchy baguette, creamy butter, and tasty ham. And if you want to recreate that crucnhy Parisian perfection at home, make sure you join a bread baking class while in Paris!

If your taste buds are tingling for more French culinary adventures, why not bring the experience home? Cook’n With Class offers French cuisine classes, French dessert and baking classes, and so many more. Delve into the heart of French gastronomy and refine your cooking skills in our classes with some friends or to make some new friends. Join us at Cook’n With Class and let the cooking adventure begin! 👩‍🍳👨‍🍳