The hot roast beef sandwich is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Thinly sliced roast beef, served on a crusty roll with melted cheese and savory au jus, is the perfect remedy for a chilly day or a satisfying meal any time of the year. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to make the perfect hot roast beef sandwiches, from selecting the right cut of beef to assembling the final product.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
When it comes to making hot roast beef sandwiches, the right cut of beef is essential. You want a cut that is tender, flavorful, and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. Here are a few options to consider:
Top Round
Top round is a popular choice for roast beef sandwiches because it is lean, tender, and has a mild flavor. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to other cuts of beef.
Rump Roast
Rump roast is another popular choice for roast beef sandwiches. It is a bit fattier than top round, which makes it more tender and flavorful.
Prime Rib
Prime rib is a more expensive option, but it is also the most tender and flavorful. It has a lot of marbling, which makes it juicy and delicious.
Cooking the Roast Beef
Once you have selected the right cut of beef, it’s time to cook it. Here are the steps to follow:
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is a low temperature that will help to cook the beef slowly and evenly.
Seasoning the Beef
Rub the beef all over with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings. You can also add some garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Roasting the Beef
Place the 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. 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).
Letting the Beef Rest
Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the beef to retain its tenderness.
Slicing the Roast Beef
After the beef has rested, it’s time to slice it thinly against the grain. You can use a meat slicer or a sharp knife to slice the beef. Try to slice the beef as thinly as possible, so it’s easy to stack on the sandwich.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here are the steps to follow:
Toasting the Bread
Start by toasting the bread. You can use a crusty roll or a hoagie roll. Slice the roll in half and place it under the broiler for a few minutes, or until it’s lightly toasted.
Adding the Cheese
Add a slice or two of cheese to the bread. You can use cheddar, Swiss, or provolone cheese.
Adding the Roast Beef
Add a few slices of roast beef to the bread. You can add as much or as little beef as you like, depending on your preference.
Adding the Au Jus
Add a few tablespoons of au jus to the sandwich. Au jus is the juice that the beef was cooked in, and it adds a lot of flavor to the sandwich.
Adding the Toppings
Add any toppings you like to the sandwich. Some popular toppings include horseradish sauce, mustard, and pickles.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to consider:
Using a Slow Cooker
You can also cook the roast beef in a slow cooker. Simply season the beef and place it in the slow cooker with some beef broth. Cook the beef on low for 8-10 hours, or until it’s tender and flavorful.
Adding Some Spice
You can add some spice to the sandwich by using a spicy cheese or adding some hot sauce. You can also add some sliced jalapeños or banana peppers to the sandwich.
Using a Different Type of Bread
You can use a different type of bread to make the sandwich. Some popular options include a crusty baguette or a ciabatta roll.
Conclusion
Making hot roast beef sandwiches is a simple process that requires some basic ingredients and a bit of patience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create delicious hot roast beef sandwiches that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a special treat, hot roast beef sandwiches are a great option.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Top round or rump roast | 2-3 pounds |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Garlic powder and onion powder | To taste |
| Dried herbs like thyme or rosemary | To taste |
| Cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or provolone) | 2-3 slices |
| Au jus | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Horseradish sauce or mustard | To taste |
| Pickles or sliced jalapeños | To taste |
By following the recipe and tips outlined in this article, you can create delicious hot roast beef sandwiches that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
What is the best cut of beef for hot roast beef sandwiches?
The best cut of beef for hot roast beef sandwiches is typically a tougher cut that becomes tender with slow cooking. Some popular options include top round, rump roast, or prime rib. These cuts have a good balance of flavor and tenderness, making them ideal for slicing thin and serving on a sandwich.
When selecting a cut of beef, look for one that is at least 3-4 pounds to ensure you have enough meat for a crowd. You can also consider purchasing a pre-seasoned or pre-cooked roast to make the cooking process easier. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking and reheating.
How do I cook the roast beef for hot roast beef sandwiches?
To cook the roast beef, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Season the roast with your desired spices and place it in a roasting pan. Roast the beef 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, which should be at least 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the beef more tender and flavorful. You can also cook the roast beef in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a more hands-off approach. Simply season the beef and cook it on low for 8-10 hours or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
What is the best way to slice the roast beef for hot roast beef sandwiches?
The best way to slice the roast beef is against the grain, using a sharp knife or meat slicer. This will help to create tender and easy-to-chew slices. Slice the beef into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick, and place them on a cutting board or tray.
To make the slicing process easier, you can also chill the roast beef in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before slicing. This will help to firm up the meat, making it easier to slice thinly and evenly. You can also use a meat slicer or deli slicer to get uniform slices.
What are some popular toppings for hot roast beef sandwiches?
Some popular toppings for hot roast beef sandwiches include melted cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, and sautéed onions or bell peppers. You can also add some horseradish sauce or au jus for extra flavor. Other toppings might include sliced tomatoes, lettuce, or pickles.
When it comes to cheese, you can use shredded, sliced, or melted cheese, depending on your preference. For sautéed onions or bell peppers, simply heat some oil in a pan and cook the vegetables until they are tender and caramelized. You can also add some garlic or herbs for extra flavor.
What type of bread is best for hot roast beef sandwiches?
The best type of bread for hot roast beef sandwiches is a crusty bread that can hold up to the juices and toppings. Some popular options include a French baguette, Italian sub roll, or a crusty ciabatta. You can also use a hoagie roll or a pretzel bun for a more rustic option.
When selecting a bread, look for one that is fresh and has a good texture. You can also toast the bread before assembling the sandwich to give it a crispy texture. Simply place the bread under the broiler for a few minutes or grill it in a pan until it is toasted.
How do I assemble the hot roast beef sandwiches?
To assemble the hot roast beef sandwiches, start by slicing the bread in half and toasting it if desired. Then, add a few slices of the roast beef to the bread, followed by your desired toppings. You can also add some cheese or sauce to the bread before adding the beef.
Once you have added all of the toppings, place the other half of the bread on top of the sandwich and serve immediately. You can also wrap the sandwich in foil or parchment paper and serve it as a take-out option. Be sure to serve the sandwiches hot, as this will help to melt the cheese and bring out the flavors of the beef.
Can I make hot roast beef sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make hot roast beef sandwiches ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving. You can cook the roast beef and slice it ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to assemble the sandwiches.
To reheat the beef, simply place it in a pan with some au jus or broth and heat it over low heat until it is warmed through. You can also reheat the beef in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overheat it. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving and serve hot.