The Perfect Cheese And Baguette Pairing Guide

A baguette is a type of bread that is typically characterised by its long, thin shape, crispy crust, and soft interior. When it comes to cheese, there are endless possibilities to pair with a baguette. A classic French baguette sandwich, known as Jambon Beurre, consists of ham and butter, sometimes accompanied by Emmental or Gruyère cheese. Another popular option is a fresh baguette with slices of tomato and goat cheese, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with dried French herbs. For those who enjoy a more complex flavour profile, a Pan Bagnat sandwich offers a unique combination of marinated tuna, anchovies, vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, and black olives, all dressed with a light vinaigrette.

While these are some traditional combinations, the possibilities for cheese and baguette pairings are endless. From creamy cheeses like Boursin and mozzarella to stronger options like Blue Cheese and Brie, each type of cheese can be complemented by specific additions. For instance, Blue Cheese pairs well with pear and fig jam, while Brie can be enhanced by apricot preserves or honey. Ultimately, the best pairing is a matter of personal preference, and experimentation is encouraged to discover new flavour combinations.

Mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and tomato

To make this dish, start by slicing a French baguette into halves or 1/2-inch diagonal slices. Brush the bread slices with olive oil and either toast them in the oven, on a grill, or on a baking sheet. Rub the toasted bread with fresh garlic—this adds a wonderful layer of flavour to the dish.

Next, prepare the toppings. Slice some ripe, high-quality tomatoes and fresh mozzarella. You can use soft mozzarella or bocconcini (mini mozzarella balls). Chop or julienne some fresh basil leaves. In a bowl, combine the tomatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and let this mixture sit for 30-60 minutes to allow the flavours to infuse.

Now it's time to assemble! Layer the mozzarella slices onto the bread, followed by the marinated tomatoes. Return the assembled baguette to the oven for a minute or two to allow the cheese to melt slightly. Finally, sprinkle the basil on top, along with a drizzle of olive oil, and enjoy!

This dish can be served as a side, appetizer, or even a main course, paired with fruit and grilled vegetables. It's a delicious and simple way to enjoy the flavours of Italy.

Goat's cheese and honey

To make this simple dish, start by toasting slices of baguette. You can toast them in the oven, or on a grill, until they are golden brown. Next, spread creamy goat's cheese onto the toasted baguette slices. You can mix the goat's cheese with a little honey to make it easier to spread and add a little extra sweetness to the flavour. Finally, drizzle honey over the goat's cheese. You can use plain honey or hot honey for a little kick of heat.

This appetizer can be adapted in many ways. You could add toppings such as fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, basil, or mint, or even mix the herbs into the goat's cheese. You could also add caramelized onions, sauteed mushrooms, or fresh fruit like strawberries, blackberries, or peaches. For a more indulgent option, add smoked salmon or a slice of prosciutto.

Brie and apricot preserves

To make this tasty treat, start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Cut a French baguette into 1-inch thick slices and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle the slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste. Bake the slices for about 5 minutes, or until they are lightly toasted.

Once the baguette slices are toasted, it's time to assemble. Spread a teaspoon of apricot preserves onto each slice, then top with a slice of Brie cheese. Pop the assembled bites back into the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the Brie is warm and starts to melt.

For an extra indulgent twist, try baking the Brie and apricot preserves in a puff pastry. Simply place the Brie in the centre of the pastry, top with apricot preserves, and neatly wrap the pastry around the cheese. Brush the pastry with a beaten egg for a golden, crispy finish. Bake until the pastry is golden brown and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!

So, whether you keep it simple or go for the pastry-wrapped option, Brie and apricot preserves on a baguette is a delicious combination that's sure to impress. It's the perfect blend of sweet and savoury, crispy and buttery, and an excellent way to elevate your next party spread.

Cheddar and apple butter

A classic sharp cheddar with some apple butter is a great combination for a baguette. This combination is a twist on a grilled cheese sandwich, marrying salty and sweet elements between two slices of bread.

Ingredients

• 1 block of cheddar cheese
• 1 baguette
• Apple butter
• 1 large Granny Smith apple, cored and thinly sliced
• 1 small shallot, halved and thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
• Butter

Method

First, slice the baguette, apple, and cheese. Spread apple butter on the baguette slices, then top with a slice of apple, followed by a slice of cheese. Place these in a toaster oven until the cheese melts.

Alternatively, you can make an open-faced sandwich. Spread apple butter on slices of baguette, then top with cheese and cook until the cheese melts. In a separate pan, cook the apples, shallots, and rosemary with a pinch of salt until the apples are golden and softened. Place the apple mixture on the baguette slices, then sandwich the two pieces together.

For added flavour, you can also add bacon, pepper jelly, or mustard.

Boursin, turkey, and fresh veggies

Boursin is a creamy, garlic and herb cheese that pairs well with turkey and fresh veggies on a baguette. The salty, creamy cheese is a great base for the sandwich, and the crunch of the baguette adds a nice textural contrast.

To make a delicious baguette sandwich with Boursin, turkey, and fresh veggies, start by slicing the baguette lengthwise and toasting it. You can also brush the baguette with olive oil and either toast it in the oven or on a grill. Next, spread a generous amount of softened Boursin cheese on both cut sides of the baguette. On the bottom half, layer slices of pepper turkey and fresh romaine lettuce leaves. For added crunch and nutrition, you can also include other veggies such as sliced tomatoes, onions, or cucumbers.

If you want to get creative, you can also try incorporating other ingredients that pair well with Boursin. For example, walnuts and oregano go well with Boursin, as do marinated onions and Serrano ham. So, feel free to experiment and add these ingredients to your sandwich for extra flavor.

The beauty of this sandwich is in its simplicity and versatility. You can customize it to your liking, adding or removing ingredients to suit your taste preferences. So, get creative, and enjoy the delicious combination of Boursin, turkey, and fresh veggies on a crispy baguette!

Frequently asked questions