📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven's broiler or toaster oven. This will help toast the bread slices evenly and quickly.
2. Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. These will serve as the base for your crostini. Aim for even slices to ensure consistent toasting.
3. Brush each baguette slice lightly with olive oil. This adds a touch of richness and helps the bread crisp up nicely in the oven.
4. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Place them under the broiler or in the toaster oven for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. Watch them closely to prevent burning!
5. While the bread is toasting, start on the fig jam. In a small saucepan, combine the fig jam, balsamic vinegar, and fresh thyme. Simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will deepen the flavors and create a luscious, slightly tangy jam. Remove from heat and set aside.
6. Thinly slice the brie cheese. You'll want slices that are thin enough to melt easily on the warm crostini.
7. Cook the shaved beef. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shaved beef and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if necessary.
8. Once the baguette slices are toasted, remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before assembling the crostini.
9. Spread a generous spoonful of the fig jam mixture on each toasted baguette slice. This will provide a sweet and savory base for the other ingredients.
10. Top the fig jam with a slice of brie cheese. The warmth of the toast will begin to melt the brie, creating a creamy and decadent layer.
11. Add the cooked beef on top of the brie. Arrange it nicely so each crostini has a good portion of beef.
12. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme. This adds a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous aroma to the crostini.
13. Serve the beef and brie crostini immediately. These are best enjoyed warm, when the brie is melty and the flavors are at their peak.