French dip sandwiches are a classic American dish that has been a staple in many restaurants and households for decades. The combination of tender beef, crispy bread, and savory au jus is a match made in heaven. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making French dip sandwiches that will impress your family and friends.
Understanding the History of French Dip Sandwiches
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the history of French dip sandwiches. The origin of the dish is often attributed to Philippe Mathieu, a French immigrant who owned a deli in Los Angeles in the early 20th century. Mathieu began serving sandwiches made with roast beef and served with a side of au jus, which was a nod to his French heritage. The dish quickly gained popularity, and soon, French dip sandwiches were being served in restaurants all over the United States.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to making French dip sandwiches, the quality of the ingredients is crucial. Here are some tips for choosing the right ingredients:
Beef
The star of the show is, of course, the beef. You’ll want to choose a cut of beef that is tender and flavorful. Some popular options include:
- Prime rib
- Top round
- Rump roast
Look for beef that is grass-fed or grain-fed, as these options tend to be more flavorful and tender.
Bread
The bread is also an important component of the French dip sandwich. You’ll want to choose a bread that is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. Some popular options include:
- Baguette
- Ciabatta
- Hoagie roll
Cheese
Cheese is optional, but it can add a nice layer of flavor to the sandwich. Some popular options include:
- Swiss
- Provolone
- Cheddar
Au Jus
The au jus is the savory broth that is served on the side of the sandwich. You can make your own au jus using beef broth, wine, and spices, or you can use store-bought au jus.
Preparing the Beef
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s start preparing the beef. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Season the Beef
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Season the beef with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Some popular options include thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet and sear the beef on all sides until it is browned. This will help to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust.
Step 3: Roast the Beef
Transfer the beef to a roasting pan and roast it in the oven for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beef. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be at least 130°F (54°C).
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that the beef is cooked, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Slice the Beef
Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
Slice the bread into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick slices and toast it until it is lightly browned.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Assemble the sandwich by placing a few slices of beef onto the toasted bread. Add a slice of cheese, if desired.
Making the Au Jus
The au jus is a crucial component of the French dip sandwich. Here’s a recipe for homemade au jus:
Ingredients
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk until it forms a smooth paste.
- Cook the paste for 1-2 minutes, or until it is lightly browned.
- Gradually add the beef broth and red wine, whisking constantly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the au jus has thickened.
- Season the au jus with thyme, salt, and pepper.
Serving the French Dip Sandwich
The final step is to serve the French dip sandwich. Here are a few tips:
Serve with Au Jus
Serve the sandwich with a side of au jus for dipping.
Add Some Crunch
Add some crunch to the sandwich by topping it with crispy onions or croutons.
Get Creative
Get creative with your French dip sandwich by adding some unique toppings, such as caramelized onions or roasted bell peppers.
| French Dip Sandwich Variations | Description |
|---|---|
| Italian-Style French Dip | Add some Italian flair to your French dip sandwich by topping it with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. |
| Spicy French Dip | Add some heat to your French dip sandwich by topping it with sliced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese. |
In conclusion, making French dip sandwiches is a straightforward process that requires some basic ingredients and cooking skills. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and authentic French dip sandwich that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
What is a French Dip Sandwich?
A French Dip Sandwich is a type of sandwich that consists of a crusty bread roll filled with thinly sliced roast beef, which is typically served with a side of au jus, a savory beef broth, for dipping. The sandwich is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century and has since become a popular dish in many restaurants and households.
The key to a great French Dip Sandwich is the quality of the ingredients, particularly the roast beef and the au jus. The roast beef should be tender and flavorful, while the au jus should be rich and savory. When combined with a crusty bread roll, the result is a delicious and satisfying sandwich that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
What type of bread is best for a French Dip Sandwich?
The best type of bread for a French Dip Sandwich is a crusty bread roll, such as a baguette or a hoagie roll. This type of bread is ideal because it is sturdy enough to hold up to the juices of the au jus without becoming soggy or falling apart. Additionally, the crusty texture of the bread provides a nice contrast to the tender roast beef and the savory au jus.
Some popular options for bread include a French baguette, an Italian hoagie roll, or a crusty sub roll. Avoid using a soft or fluffy bread, such as white bread or whole wheat bread, as it may become soggy or fall apart when dipped in the au jus.
How do I make the au jus for a French Dip Sandwich?
The au jus for a French Dip Sandwich is typically made by simmering the juices of the roast beef in a flavorful broth. To make the au jus, start by roasting a beef roast in the oven until it is tender and flavorful. Then, remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
While the roast is resting, pour the juices from the roasting pan into a saucepan and add some beef broth, wine, or other flavorful liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until it has reduced slightly and intensified in flavor. Strain the au jus through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids and serve it hot alongside the French Dip Sandwich.
Can I use store-bought roast beef for a French Dip Sandwich?
While it is possible to use store-bought roast beef for a French Dip Sandwich, it is generally recommended to use a homemade roast beef for the best flavor and texture. Store-bought roast beef may be pre-cooked and sliced, which can make it dry and less flavorful than a homemade roast beef.
However, if you are short on time or prefer the convenience of store-bought roast beef, look for a high-quality product that is made from tender and flavorful beef. Avoid using deli roast beef or other pre-sliced meats, as they may be too thinly sliced and lack the texture and flavor of a homemade roast beef.
How do I assemble a French Dip Sandwich?
To assemble a French Dip Sandwich, start by slicing the roast beef thinly against the grain. Then, place a few slices of the roast beef onto a crusty bread roll, leaving a small border around the edges of the bread. Place the bread roll onto a baking sheet or oven-safe plate and place it under the broiler for a few minutes until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven and place it onto a serving plate or tray. Serve the French Dip Sandwich hot, with a side of au jus for dipping. You can also add some cheese, such as Swiss or cheddar, to the sandwich for extra flavor and creaminess.
Can I make French Dip Sandwiches ahead of time?
While it is possible to make some components of a French Dip Sandwich ahead of time, such as the roast beef and the au jus, it is generally recommended to assemble the sandwiches just before serving. This is because the bread may become soggy or stale if it is assembled too far in advance, and the flavors of the sandwich may not be as fresh and vibrant.
However, if you need to make the sandwiches ahead of time, consider assembling the components of the sandwich, such as the roast beef and the au jus, and storing them in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the sandwiches. Then, simply assemble the sandwiches and serve them hot, with a side of au jus for dipping.
What are some variations on the classic French Dip Sandwich?
There are many variations on the classic French Dip Sandwich that you can try to mix things up and add some new flavors to the dish. Some popular variations include adding cheese, such as Swiss or cheddar, to the sandwich for extra flavor and creaminess. You can also add some sautéed onions or bell peppers to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
Another variation is to use a different type of meat, such as prime rib or pastrami, instead of roast beef. You can also add some spicy peppers or hot sauce to the au jus for an extra kick of heat. Finally, consider serving the French Dip Sandwich with a side of fries or a salad for a more filling and satisfying meal.