French cuisine is world-renowned for its rich and delicious flavors, with cheese famously being a staple of many French dishes. However, when it comes to grilled cheese sandwiches, one might wonder what the French people call this classic American comfort food.
While the origins of grilled cheese are uncertain, it has become an iconic dish in the United States that is enjoyed by countless people. But with France being known for its fantastic cheeses, it’s no surprise that French cuisine has its interpretations of this classic sandwich. In this article, we will explore what the French people call grilled cheese and how they put their own unique spin on it.
The History of the Grilled Cheese Sandwich in France
Although the Grilled Cheese sandwich is a staple in American households and fast-food chains, its origin is unclear. However, it is believed to have roots in Europe, particularly in the 18th century when French cuisine peaked in popularity. The French had a relatable sandwich, the Croque Monsieur, made with bread, ham, and cheese. The dish is still found in French cafes today and remains a popular choice for a quick bite.
Buttery and cheesy, the Grilled Cheese sandwich made its way to France after World War I when the American army camped there. It was considered a fast and convenient meal to prepare and could be made with common ingredients found in any kitchen, such as bread and cheese. Although the sandwich did not have any unusual ingredients, the flavor profile and cooking method were new to the French. As a result, it caught on, and people started calling it “Croque Americain,” translated as the American twist on the beloved Croque Monsieur.
The Ingredients Used for a Classic French Grilled Cheese
When it comes to making a classic French grilled cheese, the ingredients used are minimalistic but effective. Firstly, bread plays a huge role in the recipe. In France, pain de mie is the preferred bread for grilled cheese. It is a traditional white bread that is cut into small, thin slices. It is light, fluffy, and perfect for toasting to create that crispy outer layer.
Next comes the cheese, and France is a cheese lover’s paradise. There is no one type of cheese that French people use for grilled cheese as they have a wide variety of options to choose from. However, there are a few of the most popular types such as Comté, Brie, Roquefort, and Gruyere. These cheeses are known for their strong flavors, and when grilled with butter, they melt and become creamy. Lastly, a small amount of butter is used to coat the bread slices, which helps to achieve a golden and crispy crust. When these ingredients come together in a French grilled cheese, the result is a delectable combination of creamy cheese and crispy bread that’s a treat for your taste buds.
The Regional Variations of Grilled Cheese in France
France is well-known for its culinary traditions, and grilled cheese is no exception. However, the French version of this simple dish has many regional variations that are worth exploring. In some regions, a grilled cheese sandwich is known as a croque-monsieur, a traditional French dish made with cooked ham and cheese sandwiched between two slices of bread and grilled.
In other regions, the grilled cheese may be known as a croque-madame, which is a croque-monsieur topped with a fried egg. Then there are other regions where a grilled cheese sandwich is simply called a sandwich au fromage grille. French people also love to experiment with the ingredients in their grilled cheese sandwiches, often adding ingredients like mushrooms, bacon, or onion. With so many regional variations of this tasty dish, it is definitely worth exploring the different flavors and ingredients that the French have to offer.
How to Order a Grilled Cheese in French Cafes and Restaurants
Ordering a grilled cheese in a French café or restaurant can be a bit tricky because it’s not a typical French dish. However, with a little knowledge, you can confidently order your favorite grilled cheese sandwich in French. Here are a few useful phrases that you can use to get your desired sandwich:
To order a grilled cheese sandwich in French, you can say “Un sandwich au fromage grillé, s’il vous plaît.” This translates to “A grilled cheese sandwich, please.” Another way to order it is by saying “Un croque-monsieur, s’il vous plaît.” Although this sandwich is not exactly the same as a grilled cheese, it’s close enough and popular in French restaurants. Keep these phrases in mind when ordering grilled cheese, and you won’t have to worry about any confusion or misinterpretation from the waiter.
Comparing American and French Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
When it comes to grilled cheese sandwiches, both American and French cuisines have their own unique take on this comfort food classic. In America, a grilled cheese typically consists of sliced bread with melted cheese, while in France, it is known as a croque-monsieur and is made with ham and gruyere cheese baked on bread with bechamel sauce.
Another popular variation in France is the croque-madame, which includes a fried egg on top of the traditional croque-monsieur. Both countries use different types of bread and cheese, with American grilled cheese favoring the use of white bread and processed cheese, while the French opt for crusty bread with cheeses such as gruyere, brie, or camembert. Despite their differences, both versions of grilled cheese sandwiches are beloved comfort foods and are enjoyed all around the world.
Creative Twists on the Traditional French Grilled Cheese
In recent years, chefs and food enthusiasts in France have put their own creative spin on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. These variations often incorporate traditional French ingredients and techniques, resulting in a more elevated and sophisticated take on the beloved comfort food.
Some variations include using artisanal cheeses like brie or comté, adding caramelized onions or fresh herbs, and swapping out the traditional white bread for a baguette or croissant. Others add a touch of sweetness with fig jam or honey, or a savory twist with bacon or prosciutto. These creative twists on the traditional French grilled cheese offer a delicious and unique experience for those looking to try something new.
The Significance of Grilled Cheese in French Culture and Cuisine
Grilled cheese sandwiches are not traditionally a part of French cuisine, and as such do not hold a significant role in French culture. However, there has been a growing trend of grilled cheese sandwiches being served in cafes and eateries across the country, especially in Paris. This trend has mainly been attributed to the influence of American cuisine.
Despite not having deep roots in French culture, grilled cheese sandwiches have been embraced by French chefs and foodies as an exciting new addition to their culinary repertoire. Many have experimented with different cheeses, bread, and even added ingredients such as ham or tomatoes to create unique variations of the classic grilled cheese sandwich. While not a traditional French dish, the grilled cheese sandwich has certainly gained a place in French cuisine as a delicious and beloved comfort food.
Final Verdict
In France, grilled cheese has a different name and approach than the classic American version. Croque-monsieur, the French version of a grilled cheese sandwich, is a popular snack and meal option that is served in cafes and restaurants across the country. The sandwich is made with bread, ham, and cheese, and is usually topped with bechamel sauce and more cheese before it is baked in the oven. The end result is a delicious and savory dish that has a crunchy outside and a creamy, cheese-filled center.
Despite its differences from the American version, the croque-monsieur has become a beloved sandwich for many people, and it continues to inspire chefs and home cooks to create their own variations. Whether you prefer the classic version or a new take on the recipe, there’s no denying that the grilled cheese and its French cousin have become a staple in the world of comfort food. So next time you’re looking to indulge in a cheesy treat, don’t forget to try the French version and discover its unique flavors and textures for yourself.