Are you a fan of the classic ham and cheese croissant? Did you know that this delicious pastry has its origins in France?
The French croissant has become an iconic symbol of French breakfast, loved in all its forms – plain, chocolate, almond, and of course, ham and cheese.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of the French croissant and give you some tips on where to find the best ones in Paris. Plus, we’ll teach you how to say “ham and cheese croissant” in French so you can impress your friends and order with confidence on your next trip to France.
So grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!
How To Say Ham And Cheese Croissant In French?
The French language is known for its beautiful and complex vocabulary, and the ham and cheese croissant is no exception. In French, a ham and cheese croissant is called “croissant au jambon et fromage.”
To break it down further, “croissant” means crescent in French, which refers to the shape of the pastry. “Jambon” means ham, and “fromage” means cheese.
Now that you know how to say it in French, you can confidently order this delicious treat at any bakery or café in France.
The History Of The French Croissant
The croissant is an iconic French pastry that has become a staple of French cuisine. However, its history suggests that it may not be originally French at all. In fact, the origins of the croissant can be traced back to 13th century Austria, where it was called the kipferl, which is the German word for crescent.
It was an Austrian artillery officer named August Zang who founded a Viennese bakery in Paris in the 19th century that served Viennese specialties including kipferl and the Vienna loaf. This bakery inspired imitators, and the French version of the kipferl was named after the shape given to it: a crescent – the French word being croissant.
While the croissant may have had Austrian origins, the French made it their own by making it with puffed pastry, which is a French innovation. The modern croissant was developed in the early 20th century when French bakers replaced the brioche dough of the kipferl with a yeast-leavened laminated dough.
The croissant became popular in France and was already a breakfast staple by the late 1860s. It has fully taken root in its adopted land, and today, croissants are part of the category of pastries that the French call Viennoiseries, a nod to their origins in Vienna.
Where To Find The Best Croissants In Paris
Paris is known for its delicious pastries, and the croissant is at the top of the list. If you’re looking for the best croissants in Paris, there are a few places that stand out.
First on the list is Laurent Duchêne’s boulangerie in the Butte aux Cailles neighborhood. This family-run bakery offers traditional French pastries, including their famous buttered croissant with a chocolate swirl and homemade praline spread. Laurent Duchêne’s innovative take on the classic pastry has earned him the title of Meilleur Ouvrier de France, a craftsman award for his culinary achievements.
Another great option is Du Pain et des Idées in the 10th arrondissement. This bakery is known for its flaky, buttery croissants with a crispy exterior and soft interior. Their croissants are made using traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients, resulting in a truly authentic French pastry experience.
If you’re looking for a more modern take on the croissant, head to L’Éclair de Génie in the Marais neighborhood. While they are known for their éclairs, their croissants are also worth trying. They offer unique flavors such as matcha and raspberry, as well as classic flavors like plain and chocolate.
No matter where you go in Paris, you’re sure to find delicious croissants. But if you want to experience some of the best, be sure to check out these local favorites.
How To Order A Ham And Cheese Croissant In French
Ordering a ham and cheese croissant in French can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some simple phrases to use when placing your order:
– “Bonjour, je voudrais un croissant au jambon et fromage, s’il vous plaît.” (Hello, I would like a ham and cheese croissant, please.)
– “Est-ce que vous avez des croissants au jambon et fromage?” (Do you have any ham and cheese croissants?)
– “Je prends un croissant au jambon et fromage, s’il vous plaît.” (I’ll take a ham and cheese croissant, please.)
It’s important to note that in France, many bakeries and cafes may not have pre-made ham and cheese croissants sitting out. Instead, they may make them fresh to order. Don’t be afraid to ask if this is the case and be prepared for a short wait while they prepare your croissant.
Additionally, if you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s important to communicate this clearly when ordering. The text above mentions that the ham and cheese croissant is not dairy-free or gluten-free and contains fresh yeast. If you have any concerns about the ingredients or preparation of your croissant, don’t hesitate to ask the staff for more information.
Other Delicious Croissant Varieties To Try In France
While the classic croissant is a staple in French bakeries, there are many other delicious croissant varieties to try in France. One such variety is the pain au chocolat, which is a regular butter croissant with small bars of chocolate rolled in between the layers. Another popular option is the croissant aux amandes, which is a croissant filled with almond cream and sprinkled with sliced almonds before being baked again to create a crispy exterior.
For those who prefer a sweeter option, the brioche croissant is a great choice. It’s made with a sweeter bread dough and often topped with large sprinkles of sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
If you’re looking for something savory, try the croissant jambon-fromage, which is a croissant filled with ham and cheese. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a quick snack on-the-go.
No matter what your preference, there’s a croissant variety for everyone in France. So next time you visit a French bakery, don’t be afraid to try something new and delicious!
Tips For Making The Perfect Croissant At Home
Making croissants at home can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you perfect your homemade croissants:
1. Use cold ingredients: Cold ingredients are essential for making croissants. Cold milk and butter will help keep the dough firm and prevent it from becoming too sticky.
2. Be patient: Croissants require time and patience. Don’t rush the process or try to cut corners. Follow the recipe instructions carefully and allow the dough to rest in the refrigerator for the recommended time.
3. Use a ruler or measuring tape: The size of the dough is crucial when making croissants. Use a ruler or measuring tape to ensure that your dough is the correct size and shape.
4. Use a silicone baking mat: A silicone baking mat will make it easier to roll out the dough and transfer it to a baking sheet. It’s also non-stick, which will prevent the dough from sticking.
5. Keep the dough cold: If at any point the dough becomes too warm, stop what you’re doing and place it back in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. Keeping the dough cold is essential for achieving flaky, buttery croissants.
6. Use a sharp knife: When cutting or slicing the dough, use a sharp knife to ensure clean edges. Dragging a dull knife through the dough can cause it to tear or become misshapen.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making perfect homemade croissants that are buttery, crisp, and flaky – just like those you’d find in a French bakery!