Easy French Dip Sandwiches are a classic comfort food that many people enjoy. This delicious sandwich is made with tender roast beef and served on a soft roll with au jus for dipping. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be made in just a few minutes.
One of the best things about Easy French Dip Sandwiches is how easy they are to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this sandwich is sure to hit the spot.
There are many variations of the French Dip Sandwich, but the easy version is perfect for those who don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. It’s also a great way to use up leftover roast beef. So why not give this classic sandwich a try and see for yourself how delicious and easy it can be?
History of French Dip Sandwiches
French Dip Sandwiches, also known as Beef Dip Sandwiches, are a classic American sandwich that traces its roots to Los Angeles in the early 20th century. The sandwich consists of thinly sliced roast beef on a French roll, which is then dipped in au jus, a flavorful beef broth.
There are two popular stories about the origin of the French Dip Sandwich. The first one claims that the sandwich was invented in 1918 by a French immigrant named Philippe Mathieu. According to this story, Mathieu accidentally dropped a French roll into a pan of hot beef broth while making a sandwich for a police officer. The police officer liked the sandwich so much that Mathieu started making it regularly and eventually added roast beef to the recipe.
The second story claims that the sandwich was invented by a restaurant called Cole’s P.E. Buffet in downtown Los Angeles. According to this story, a customer asked for a sandwich with extra meat, and the server accidentally dropped the roll into a pan of hot beef broth. The customer liked the sandwich so much that he started ordering it regularly, and it became a popular item on the menu.
Regardless of which story is true, the French Dip Sandwich quickly became a hit in Los Angeles and spread to other parts of the country. Today, it is a staple on many restaurant menus and is often served with a side of fries or potato chips. So, the next time you bite into a delicious French Dip Sandwich, remember its humble origins in the city of angels.
Essential Ingredients
When it comes to making the perfect French Dip sandwich, having the right ingredients is crucial. Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to make a delicious French Dip sandwich:
Bread Selection
The bread used for a French Dip sandwich should be sturdy enough to hold up to the meat and au jus, but not too dense or heavy. A crusty baguette or hoagie roll is a popular choice, but a soft and fluffy ciabatta or sourdough roll can also work well.
Meat Choices
The traditional meat for a French Dip sandwich is roast beef, sliced thin and piled high. However, you can also use other types of meat, such as turkey, ham, or even pork. Just make sure the meat is tender and flavorful.
Cheese Varieties
Adding cheese to a French Dip sandwich is optional, but it can add an extra layer of flavor and texture. Swiss, provolone, and cheddar are all popular choices. Make sure to choose a cheese that melts well and complements the flavor of your chosen meat.
Au Jus Preparation
The au jus is what gives a French Dip sandwich its signature flavor. It’s made by simmering beef broth, garlic, and other seasonings until it’s rich and flavorful. Some recipes call for adding red wine or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor. Serve the au jus on the side for dipping, or pour it over the sandwich for a more decadent experience.
By using the right bread, meat, cheese, and au jus preparation, you can create a French Dip sandwich that is sure to impress.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Bread Preparation
To start making Easy French Dip Sandwiches, the first step is to prepare the bread. Take a French baguette and slice it into 4-6 inch pieces. Cut the bread in half lengthwise, and lightly toast it in the oven or on a pan. This will give the bread a nice crunch and prevent it from getting soggy when dipped in the au jus.
Meat Cooking Techniques
Once the bread is prepped, it’s time to cook the meat. The best meat to use for French Dip Sandwiches is thinly sliced roast beef. You can either buy pre-sliced roast beef from the deli or cook a roast beef in the oven and slice it thinly. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced roast beef to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes until browned on both sides.
Assembling the Sandwich
After the bread and meat are prepared, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Spread a layer of Dijon mustard on one side of the bread and a layer of mayonnaise on the other. Add a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the roast beef and place it on one side of the bread. Top it off with the other half of the bread.
Dipping Sauce Tips
The final step is to prepare the dipping sauce. The most common dipping sauce for French Dip Sandwiches is au jus, which is made by simmering beef broth with herbs and spices. You can either make it from scratch or use a store-bought mix. Serve the sandwich with a small bowl of au jus on the side for dipping.
Overall, making Easy French Dip Sandwiches is a quick and easy process that can be done in under 30 minutes. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying sandwich that is perfect for lunch or dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
French dip sandwiches are a hearty meal on their own, but adding a side dish can make it even more satisfying. Here are a few side dish suggestions that pair well with the flavors of the French dip sandwich:
- French fries: The classic pairing for any sandwich, French fries are a perfect side dish for French dip sandwiches. They add a crispy and salty element that complements the savory beef and au jus.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy side dish that adds a nice contrast to the warm and tender French dip sandwich. The tangy dressing of coleslaw also helps cut through the richness of the beef.
- Roasted vegetables: For a healthier option, roasted vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers make a great side dish. The roasted flavors of the vegetables pair well with the beef, and the added fiber and nutrients make it a well-rounded meal.
Beverage Pairings
A French dip sandwich is a hearty meal that pairs well with a variety of beverages. Here are a few beverage suggestions that complement the flavors of the French dip sandwich:
- Beer: A cold beer is a classic pairing for any sandwich, and the French dip sandwich is no exception. A light lager or pale ale pairs well with the savory beef and au jus.
- Red wine: A glass of red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, pairs well with the richness of the beef and adds a touch of elegance to the meal.
- Iced tea: For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea is a refreshing beverage that complements the savory flavors of the French dip sandwich. It also helps cleanse the palate between bites.
Overall, French dip sandwiches are a versatile meal that can be paired with a variety of side dishes and beverages. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairing.
Storage and Reheating
Easy French Dip Sandwiches are a great make-ahead meal that can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. To ensure the best quality, it is important to store the sandwich components separately.
The cooked beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the beef in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
The French bread can be stored in a plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and place in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
The beef broth can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the broth in a saucepan over medium heat and heat until hot.
When ready to assemble the sandwich, slice the bread and heat it in the oven as directed above. Warm the beef in the microwave and heat the broth on the stovetop. Assemble the sandwich and serve immediately.
By following these simple storage and reheating instructions, you can enjoy delicious Easy French Dip Sandwiches anytime, anywhere.
Customization Ideas
Vegetarian Alternatives
For those who prefer a meatless option, there are a few alternatives to consider. One option is to use sliced portobello mushrooms in place of the beef. Marinate the mushrooms in a mixture of soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and garlic before sautéing them in a pan. Another option is to use seitan, a wheat-based protein, in place of the beef. Simply sauté the seitan in a pan with onions and garlic for added flavor.
Additional Toppings
While the classic French dip sandwich is delicious on its own, there are many toppings that can be added to enhance the flavor. Sautéed onions and peppers are a great addition, as are sliced avocado and tomato. For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or sriracha sauce. Other toppings to consider include pickles, roasted red peppers, and even pineapple.
Sauce Variations
While the traditional French dip sandwich is served with au jus for dipping, there are many other sauces that can be used to add flavor. Horseradish sauce is a popular option, as is honey mustard or garlic aioli. For a more tangy flavor, try adding a bit of Worcestershire sauce to the au jus. Another option is to mix the au jus with a bit of mayonnaise and mustard to create a creamy dipping sauce.
Nutritional Information
Easy French Dip Sandwiches are a delicious and filling meal that can be enjoyed any time of day. However, it’s important to be aware of the nutritional information before indulging in this dish.
One serving of a French Dip Sandwich contains approximately 550 calories, with 28 grams of fat, 38 grams of carbohydrates, and 35 grams of protein. This makes it a relatively high-calorie meal, but the high protein content can help you feel full and satisfied.
It’s worth noting that the nutritional information can vary depending on the type of bread, meat, and cheese used in the sandwich. For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat bread, lean roast beef, and low-fat cheese.
In addition to the sandwich itself, it’s important to consider the nutritional content of the dipping sauce. Most French Dip Sandwiches are served with a side of au jus sauce, which can be high in sodium. To reduce sodium intake, consider making your own au jus using low-sodium beef broth.
Overall, while Easy French Dip Sandwiches can be a tasty and satisfying meal, it’s important to be mindful of the nutritional content and make healthier choices when possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cheese to complement French dip sandwiches?
The best cheese to complement French dip sandwiches is provolone cheese. It has a mild flavor that does not overpower the taste of the beef and au jus sauce.
What are the essential ingredients for a classic French dip sandwich?
The essential ingredients for a classic French dip sandwich are thinly sliced roast beef, French bread, provolone cheese, and au jus sauce. Some variations may include additional ingredients such as onions or horseradish sauce.
Which bread type is ideal for making French dip sandwiches?
The ideal bread type for making French dip sandwiches is French bread. It has a crispy crust and a soft interior that can hold up to the moistness of the beef and au jus sauce.
What are some recommended side dishes to serve with French dip sandwiches?
Some recommended side dishes to serve with French dip sandwiches are French fries, coleslaw, or a side salad. These sides complement the sandwich and add some variety to the meal.
How does a wet French dip sandwich differ from the traditional version?
A wet French dip sandwich is similar to the traditional version, but it is served with extra au jus sauce poured over the sandwich. This makes the bread even more moist and flavorful.
Can you use deli meat to make a French dip sandwich, and if so, how?
Yes, you can use deli meat to make a French dip sandwich. Simply purchase thinly sliced roast beef from the deli counter and assemble the sandwich with French bread, provolone cheese, and au jus sauce.