A thin loaf of French bread is often referred to as a baguette—the iconic, crusty-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside bread that’s a staple in French baking and loved around the world.
🥖 Quick Facts about a French Baguette:
- Length: Typically around 24–26 inches (60–65 cm)
- Width: Narrow—about 2–2.5 inches
- Crust: Crisp and golden
- Interior (crumb): Light, airy, and chewy
🍽️ How to Use a Thin French Loaf:
- Sandwiches: Slice lengthwise for paninis or classic jambon-beurre (ham & butter).
- Bruschetta: Cut into rounds, toast, and top with tomatoes, cheese, or spreads.
- Garlic Bread: Butter, garlic, parsley, and bake until crisp.
- Soup Sidekick: Serve slices warm with stews, bisques, or French onion soup.
- Crostini or Canapés: Great for appetizers—top with tapenade, goat cheese, or smoked salmon.
🥖 Want to Make One at Home?
Here’s a simple baguette recipe if you’re up for baking:
Ingredients:
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1½ tsp instant yeast
- 1¼ cups warm water
Quick Instructions:
- Mix flour, yeast, and salt. Add water and knead into a sticky dough.
- Let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Shape into long, thin loaves. Let rise again for 30–45 mins.
- Slash the tops, bake at 450°F (230°C) for 20–25 mins with steam (a pan of water in the oven helps).
Want help making your own or ideas for meals that pair well with a baguette?