These lovely little dinner or breakfast rolls are found everywhere in Belgium, and in most parts of France too. The last time I had them was a cosy Bed and Breakfast in Bruges, where they were served warm with fresh butter and boiled eggs for breakfast. They can vary in what type of flour is used, but they must always have the distinctive split, due to them being cut with the handle of a wooden spoon before baking. They are crusty and yet light inside, and make great sandwiches for picnics or a light lunch. This recipe is the result of numerous trial and error baking sessions, and the pistolets bread rolls are nutty and full of onion flavour. I start these off in the bread machine for ease when I am pushed for time, but they are just as easily made the more traditional way, mixing and proving by hand. NB: As one reviewer found out, baking can be a challenge, and in most cases an exact science. Do try to stick to the recipe as written – you won’t be disappointed! Thanks!
The French love these delicious savoury cakes, they can be found in all supermarkets and good boulangeries. The texture is still very light and “cake” like, as these are not yeast risen cakes; however, the texture is also quite robust and firm, slightly “holey”, making these savoury type cakes very easy to slice. You can just slice them and butter them for a snack or use the sliced cake for an unusual and alternative sandwich bread. Or, slice them and then cut into small cubes – then using cocktail sticks attach a chunk of your favourite cheese or spread the cubes with tapenade, cream cheese or your favourite savoury spread. Olives also make a great accompaniment. Please note, that these do NOT have the same texture as a normal sweet cake – as I mentioned before, the texture is holey, firm and amost like a sourdough bread. They freeze beautifully, both in loaves or in slices. Preparation time includes the “resting” time needed for the cake batter.
I found this vintage recipe on the Internet while looking for unique recipes to submit for the Zaar World Tour. It comes from the recipe files of Margaret Dens Buytaert, a Belgain who resided in Wisconsin. The idea of coffee as the liquid in this quick bread intrigues me. Sorry that I will not have a chance to prepare it for a while. If you try it, please share your reactions.
Another version of a croque monsieur. Here in Belgium you can eat it in almost every restaurant that serves snacks.
I have not yet had the good fortune to visit Belgium, but I do frequent a lovely NYC cafe called Le Pain Quotidien, which is based in Belgium. I tried their crispy, caramelized Belgian Sugar Waffle, and was instantly in love. If perled sugar is not available, substitute an equal amount of coarsely crushed sugar cubes. I got this recipe off a Belgian website.
