Jambon Beurre (French Ham and Butter Sandwich)

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Jambon Beurre (French Ham and Butter Sandwich) is literally ham and butter nested in a crusty baguette. This is an easy recipe with only three ingredients, that will transport you all the way back to Paris.

This delicious sandwich pairs well with this refreshing Hugo Spritz, Aperol Spritz and Apperol Orange Margarita.

What is Jambon Beurre

Jambon Beurre is simply a French ham and butter sandwich. It sells over 3 million sandwiches a day and it is considered the most popular sandwich in France.

It traces back to the 19th century where it was made for the working class to grab and go. At the time it was made with lard. At the beginning of the 20th century it was transformed using better ingredients.

Last summer I visited The Sentinel in Marfa - from all places- and as part of their summer menu they were serving Jambon Beurre with arugula. Let me tell you! That was one of the best sandwiches I've had. I have been dreaming about that sandwich. Yes! It was that good! So, finally found all the ingredients to make it at home and share with y'all!!

What you will need to make the Jambon Beurre

What makes this sandwich so good is the quality of the ingredients. This is a simple sandwich but it is packed with so much flavor. The idea is that you want to make it closer to the ones in Paris!

Here is what you need:

**See the Recipe Card below for detailed measurements and directions**

Bread - Ficelle which is thinner and slightly sweet type of baguette is ideal to make this sandwich. But a regular baguette works well here. If you live in a place where you have access to a french bakery, get a crusty baguette. You can always use a regular loaf of french bread.
Ham - Here is the deal, you want to get the best ham. It is part of the experience. Jambon de Paris is the recommended ham for this sandwich. I found it at Spec's but it is also available at Whole Foods and Tree Little Pigs (which is the one I am using here!
Butter - Personally I think the butter is the star of the sandwich. Therefore you need high quality butter. I recommend using Isigny Sainte-Mere Beurre D'Isigny AOP. It is unsalted butter made with grass feed cows in Isigny, France. It is creamy, luscious and rich flavor. It is sold at Whole Foods also but I bought this one at Marky's which had a 15% discount.

Making the French Ham and Butter Sandwich

This sandwich comes together quickly. It is super easy and delicious! Let's make it:

ONE: Gather all your ingredients. It is important for the butter to be at room temperature.

TWO: Slice the baguette length wise with a serrated knife.

THREE: Spread a generous amount of butter evenly on both sides of the baguette. You really want to the flavor of the butter to stand out.

FOUR: Add the slices of ham to cover on of the baguette halves. Top with the other half of the bread. Cut diagonally in half.

Helpful Hint: It is not necessary to toast or heat the bread since this is a cold/room temp sandwich. Also it is important that the butter is at room temperature for easy spreading.

Recipe Substitutions

While you want to stick to make this sandwich as close to the Parisian one, sometimes it is not possible to find the ingredients that are needed.

Here are alternatives:

Prosciutto - If you can't find Jambon de Paris, I recommend Italian Prosciutto Cotto or Jamón Iberico. It is salty and pairs well with the butter. Also Cooked Ham is another great substitution for French ham.
French Loaf - instead of a baguette you can use a long french loaf.
Vegan - use plant based butter like Miyoko's and this Vegan ham from Yves. While it will not taste the same as the non vegan version, it can satisfy that need for a good ham and butter sandwich. Don't skimp on the ingredients.

Recipe Variations

Purists will take issue with adding anything to the Jambon Beurre on top of ham and butter. But here are a few that are great additions without taking from the flavor:

Arugula - arugula and spinach mix to the sandwich this adds a peppery flavor to the sandwich which pairs well with the ham and butter.
Pickles - add pickles if you love them but I personally think it overpowers the sandwich taking away from the ham and butter. But you do you!!
Cheese - add Gruyere cheese for a tangy kick. Again this is not required since the two ingredients in the sandwich are great on their own.
Mini Sandwiches - This sandwich is intended for two people. Slice in small pieces if you having a gathering.

Check out one of my favorite sandwiches where pickles actually are ok to add!

Storage

Store the sandwich by wrapping the sandwich tight using plastic wrap. If you add arugula you really don't need to separate it. Eat it within a day.

This sandwich won't freeze well.

FAQ

What ham is a good substitute for Jambon de Paris?

Prosciutto is a good substitute however it will not give you the same flavor but it works great. Also cooked ham is another good alternative.

What drinks pair well with the Jambon Beurre sandwich?

Wine: Light red wine like a Bordeaux and Coteaux Champenois.
Cocktails: Apperol Spritz, Hugo Spritz or Tino de Verano.
Beer: French Beer 1664 or Modelo.

What do you with a Jambon Beurre Sandwich?

French Onion Soup, Tomato Soup, Grapes, Chips, Fries and maybe a salad are great accompaniments for this sandwich.

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

Pairing

These are my favorite drinks that pair well with this recipe:

If you make this recipe I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a comment below.

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