When it comes to satisfying our cravings for a hearty, comforting meal, few things hit the spot quite like a hot roast beef sandwich. The tender, juicy beef, the crispy bread, and the gooey cheese all come together to create a culinary experience that’s hard to beat. But what if you don’t have access to a deli or a roast beef joint? Fear not, dear readers, because today we’re going to show you how to make hot roast beef sandwiches using lunch meat.
The Benefits of Using Lunch Meat
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of making hot roast beef sandwiches with lunch meat, let’s talk about the benefits of using this convenient and accessible ingredient. Here are a few reasons why lunch meat is a great choice:
- Convenience: Lunch meat is widely available in most supermarkets and can be easily stored in the fridge for later use.
- Affordability: Compared to buying a whole roast beef or visiting a deli, lunch meat is a cost-effective option.
- Versatility: Lunch meat can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to salads to wraps.
Choosing the Right Lunch Meat
Not all lunch meats are created equal, and when it comes to making hot roast beef sandwiches, you’ll want to choose a high-quality option that’s tender, flavorful, and has a good texture. Here are a few things to look for when selecting a lunch meat:
Look for Thinly Sliced Meat
Thinly sliced meat is essential for making hot roast beef sandwiches. Look for lunch meat that’s been sliced to a uniform thickness, ideally around 1/8 inch. This will ensure that your sandwiches cook evenly and are easy to bite into.
Opt for a Lean Cut
A lean cut of meat is not only healthier, but it’s also less likely to be tough or chewy. Look for lunch meat that’s made from a lean cut of beef, such as top round or sirloin.
Check the Ingredients
When choosing a lunch meat, be sure to check the ingredients list. Avoid meats that contain added preservatives, artificial flavorings, or excessive sodium.
Assembling the Sandwiches
Now that we’ve covered the benefits of using lunch meat and how to choose the right option, it’s time to start assembling our hot roast beef sandwiches. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
- 4 slices of lunch meat
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup of au jus (optional)
Buttering the Bread
The first step in assembling our sandwiches is to butter the bread. Take two slices of bread and spread a tablespoon of butter on each slice. This will help create a crispy, golden-brown crust on our sandwiches.
Adding the Lunch Meat
Next, add two slices of lunch meat to each sandwich. You can trim the meat to fit the bread if needed.
Adding the Cheese
Now it’s time to add the cheese. Sprinkle a half cup of shredded cheese on top of the lunch meat. You can use one type of cheese or a combination of different cheeses.
Assembling the Sandwiches
Place the two slices of bread together to form a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Cooking the Sandwiches
There are a few ways to cook hot roast beef sandwiches, but one of the most popular methods is to use a panini press or a skillet. Here’s how to cook your sandwiches using a skillet:
Heating the Skillet
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt.
Cooking the Sandwiches
Place two sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches.
Serving the Sandwiches
Once your sandwiches are cooked, it’s time to serve them. Here are a few ideas for serving hot roast beef sandwiches:
Au Jus
Serve your sandwiches with a side of au jus, a savory beef broth that’s perfect for dipping. You can make your own au jus by simmering beef broth with some onions and herbs, or you can use store-bought au jus.
Roasted Vegetables
Serve your sandwiches with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts. Simply toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender.
Conclusion
Making hot roast beef sandwiches with lunch meat is a simple and delicious way to satisfy your cravings for a hearty, comforting meal. By choosing the right lunch meat, assembling the sandwiches with care, and cooking them to perfection, you can create a culinary experience that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So next time you’re in the mood for a hot roast beef sandwich, don’t be afraid to get creative and use lunch meat. Your taste buds will thank you.
Additional Tips and Variations
Here are a few additional tips and variations to help you take your hot roast beef sandwiches to the next level:
Using a Panini Press
If you have a panini press, you can use it to cook your sandwiches instead of a skillet. Simply place the sandwiches in the press and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Adding Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions are a great addition to hot roast beef sandwiches. Simply cook some onions in a skillet until they’re soft and caramelized, then add them to your sandwiches.
Using Different Types of Cheese
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese. Some popular options include cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone.
Adding Some Spice
If you like a little heat in your sandwiches, you can add some spice with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a slice of jalapeno pepper.
By following these tips and variations, you can create a hot roast beef sandwich that’s truly unique and delicious.
What type of lunch meat is best for hot roast beef sandwiches?
The best type of lunch meat for hot roast beef sandwiches is thinly sliced roast beef. You can find this in most supermarkets, usually in the deli section. Look for a brand that is low in sodium and has no added preservatives. You can also use leftover roast beef from a previous meal, sliced thinly.
When choosing a lunch meat, make sure to read the label and check the ingredients. Opt for a product that is made from 100% beef and has no fillers or by-products. This will ensure that your hot roast beef sandwiches are not only delicious but also healthy.
How do I assemble the hot roast beef sandwiches?
To assemble the hot roast beef sandwiches, start by slicing the lunch meat into thin strips. Then, place a few slices of the roast beef onto a slice of bread. You can use any type of bread you like, but a crusty bread or a hoagie roll works well. Add some cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, and a few slices of sautéed onions and bell peppers.
Next, place the sandwiches under the broiler for a few minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted. You can also grill the sandwiches in a panini press or grill for a crispy exterior. Serve the hot roast beef sandwiches hot, with your favorite sides, such as fries or a salad.
Can I add other toppings to the hot roast beef sandwiches?
Yes, you can add other toppings to the hot roast beef sandwiches to give them more flavor and texture. Some ideas include sliced mushrooms, diced tomatoes, and spinach. You can also add a dollop of horseradish sauce or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
When adding toppings, make sure not to overload the sandwich. You want to be able to taste the roast beef and the other ingredients, so keep the toppings simple and balanced. Also, consider the flavor profile of the toppings and how they will complement the roast beef.
How do I make the au jus for the hot roast beef sandwiches?
To make the au jus for the hot roast beef sandwiches, you can use the juices from a roast beef that you cooked previously. Simply strain the juices and serve them on the side. You can also use beef broth or stock as a substitute.
If you want to make a more authentic au jus, you can simmer the juices from the roast beef with some beef broth and a few aromatics, such as onions and carrots. This will create a rich and flavorful sauce that is perfect for dipping the hot roast beef sandwiches.
Can I make the hot roast beef sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the hot roast beef sandwiches ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble them just before serving. You can slice the lunch meat and cheese, and sauté the onions and bell peppers ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before broiling or grilling.
If you need to make the sandwiches ahead of time, you can assemble them and refrigerate them for up to a few hours. Then, simply broil or grill them when you’re ready to serve. Keep in mind that the sandwiches may not be as crispy or toasted if they’re made ahead of time.
How do I store leftover hot roast beef sandwiches?
To store leftover hot roast beef sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them for up to a day. You can also freeze them for up to a few months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the sandwiches and reheat them in the oven or microwave.
When reheating the sandwiches, make sure to heat them until they’re hot and the cheese is melted. You can also add a few slices of fresh cheese or a dollop of horseradish sauce to give them a boost of flavor.
Can I make the hot roast beef sandwiches in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make the hot roast beef sandwiches in a slow cooker. Simply place the sliced lunch meat, cheese, and sautéed onions and bell peppers in the slow cooker. Add some beef broth or stock, and cook on low for a few hours.
When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the sandwiches and serve them hot. You can also keep the sandwiches warm in the slow cooker for a few hours, making it a great option for a party or gathering.