French dip sandwiches are a classic American dish that has been a staple in many restaurants and households for decades. The combination of tender roast 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 with roast beef, from preparing the ingredients to serving the final product.
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 origins of this dish are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. One story behind the creation of the French dip sandwich is that it was invented by a Los Angeles restaurant owner named Philippe Mathieu in the 1920s. Mathieu, who owned a deli called Philippe’s, began serving sandwiches made with roast beef and dipped in a savory broth to hungry workers at the nearby docks.
The Key Components of a French Dip Sandwich
A traditional French dip sandwich consists of three main components: roast beef, bread, and au jus. Here’s a brief overview of each component:
- Roast Beef: The roast beef used in French dip sandwiches is typically thinly sliced and cooked to perfection. The beef can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasting, grilling, or braising.
- Bread: The bread used in French dip sandwiches is usually a crusty bread, such as a baguette or ciabatta. The bread is toasted or grilled to give it a crispy texture.
- Au Jus: The au jus is the savory broth that the sandwich is dipped in. The au jus is typically made with beef broth, wine, and spices.
Preparing the Ingredients
Before we can start assembling the sandwiches, we need to prepare the ingredients. Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need:
- 3 pounds roast beef
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups bread, sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 slices cheese (optional)
Cooking the Roast Beef
To cook the roast beef, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Season the roast beef with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Place the roast beef in a roasting pan and put it in the oven. Roast the beef for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Roasting Times for Different Levels of Doneness
| Level of Doneness | Roasting Time |
| — | — |
| Rare | 1-2 hours |
| Medium-rare | 1.5-2.5 hours |
| Medium | 2-3 hours |
| Medium-well | 2.5-3.5 hours |
| Well-done | 3-4 hours |
Assembling the Sandwiches
Once the roast beef is cooked, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Here’s a step-by-step guide to assembling the sandwiches:
- Slice the roast beef into thin strips.
- Toast or grill the bread until it’s crispy.
- Butter the bread with 1-2 tablespoons of butter.
- Place 2-3 slices of roast beef on each slice of bread.
- Place 1-2 slices of cheese on top of the roast beef (if using).
- Place the other slice of bread on top of the cheese.
Serving the Sandwiches
To serve the sandwiches, place them in a bowl or on a plate and serve with a side of au jus. The au jus can be served in a bowl or poured directly over the sandwich.
Tips for Serving French Dip Sandwiches
- Serve the sandwiches immediately after assembling them.
- Use a high-quality au jus that’s rich and flavorful.
- Offer a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, Swiss, or provolone.
- Serve the sandwiches with a side of fries or a salad.
Making the Au Jus
The au jus is a critical component of the French dip sandwich. Here’s a recipe for making au jus from scratch:
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions for Making Au Jus
- In a large pot, combine the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Let the au jus simmer for 1-2 hours, or until it’s reduced and flavorful.
- Season the au jus with salt and pepper to taste.
Conclusion
French dip sandwiches are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With this guide, you’ll be able to make French dip sandwiches with roast beef that are sure to impress your friends and family. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, cook the roast beef to perfection, and serve the sandwiches with a rich and flavorful au jus. Bon appétit!
What is a French Dip Sandwich?
A French Dip Sandwich is a type of sandwich that typically consists of thinly sliced roast beef, served on a crusty baguette or hoagie roll, and dipped in a flavorful au jus sauce. The sandwich is often associated with French cuisine, but its origins are unclear. Some believe it was created by French immigrants in the United States, while others claim it was invented by a Los Angeles deli owner in the early 20th century.
Regardless of its origins, the French Dip Sandwich has become a beloved dish around the world, and its popularity can be attributed to the tender and juicy roast beef, the crispy bread, and the rich and savory au jus sauce. When made correctly, a French Dip Sandwich is a truly satisfying and delicious meal that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What type of roast beef is best for French Dip Sandwiches?
The best type of roast beef for French Dip Sandwiches is a thinly sliced, slow-cooked roast beef that is tender and juicy. Top round or prime rib roast beef is often used for French Dip Sandwiches, as it is lean and has a rich flavor. The roast beef should be cooked low and slow to break down the connective tissues and make it tender and easy to slice.
When selecting a roast beef for French Dip Sandwiches, look for one that is labeled as “top round” or “prime rib.” You can also ask your butcher to slice the roast beef thinly against the grain, which will make it easier to slice and serve. Avoid using deli roast beef or pre-sliced roast beef, as it may be too thin and lack the rich flavor of a slow-cooked roast beef.
How do I make the au jus sauce for French Dip Sandwiches?
The au jus sauce for French Dip Sandwiches is made by simmering the juices from the roast beef with some aromatics and seasonings. To make the au jus sauce, start by deglazing the roasting pan with a little bit of red wine or beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Then, add some beef broth, onions, carrots, celery, and herbs to the pan, and simmer the mixture until it is reduced and flavorful.
The au jus sauce should be rich and savory, with a deep beef flavor. You can also add some Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the au jus sauce to give it a bit of umami flavor. Strain the au jus sauce before serving to remove any solids, and serve it hot alongside the French Dip Sandwiches.
What type of bread is best for French Dip Sandwiches?
The best type of bread for French Dip Sandwiches is a crusty baguette or hoagie roll. The bread should be sturdy enough to hold up to the juices from the roast beef and the au jus sauce, but still soft and tender on the inside. A baguette or hoagie roll with a crispy crust and a soft interior is perfect for French Dip Sandwiches.
When selecting a bread for French Dip Sandwiches, look for one that is freshly baked and has a crispy crust. You can also toast the bread before assembling the sandwiches to give it a bit of crunch. Avoid using a soft or fluffy bread, as it may become soggy and fall apart when dipped in the au jus sauce.
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, slice the bread in half lengthwise and toast it until it is crispy. Next, place a few slices of the roast beef onto the bread, followed by a spoonful of the au jus sauce. Finally, top the sandwich with some melted cheese, such as Swiss or provolone, and serve it immediately.
When assembling the sandwiches, be sure to use a generous amount of roast beef and au jus sauce. You can also add some sautéed onions or bell peppers to the sandwich for extra flavor. Serve the French Dip Sandwiches hot, with a side of the au jus sauce for dipping.
Can I make French Dip Sandwiches ahead of time?
While it is possible to make French Dip Sandwiches ahead of time, it is best to assemble and serve them immediately. The roast beef and au jus sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen, but the sandwiches should be assembled just before serving. This will ensure that the bread stays crispy and the cheese stays melted.
If you need to make French Dip Sandwiches ahead of time, you can assemble the sandwiches without the au jus sauce and refrigerate them for up to a few hours. Then, just before serving, dip the sandwiches in the au jus sauce and serve them hot. You can also make the au jus sauce ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
What are some variations of French Dip Sandwiches?
There are many variations of French Dip Sandwiches that you can try. Some popular variations include adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the sandwich, using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, or adding some sliced ham or turkey to the sandwich. You can also use different types of bread, such as a ciabatta or a sub roll, or add some spicy peppers or hot sauce to the au jus sauce.
Another variation of French Dip Sandwiches is to use a different type of roast beef, such as a prime rib or a ribeye. You can also add some horseradish or mustard to the au jus sauce for extra flavor. Experiment with different ingredients and variations to find your favorite way to make French Dip Sandwiches.