Frederic Melton
French dip sandwiches are hot sandwiches typically made with roast beef, cheese, and bread. The type of cheese used can vary, but provolone is a popular choice due to its creamy texture and mild, tangy flavour, which pairs well with the beef. Swiss cheese is also a common option, and some people may prefer cheddar or mozzarella. Ultimately, the choice of cheese depends on personal preference, as different cheeses can enhance the sandwich in unique ways.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of cheese | Provolone, Swiss, Mozzarella, Cheddar, American, Cheez Whiz |
| Texture | Creamy, semi-hard |
| Flavor | Mild, tangy, nutty |
| Melting properties | Melts well |
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What You'll Learn
Provolone cheese and jus
Provolone is a semi-hard, aged, Italian cheese with a sharp and tangy flavour. It is made from cow's milk and is known to take on a wide range of shapes and sizes. Provolone is a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed melted or cold, making it a great option for pairing with jus.
When it comes to pairing Provolone cheese with jus, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the type of Provolone cheese you choose can vary the flavour profile. Provolone Dolce, the younger and milder version, has a creamy and slightly sweet flavour due to its shorter ageing process of two to three months. On the other hand, Provolone Piccante, the more mature version, is aged for at least four months and has a stronger, tangier flavour with a firmer texture. The longer it's aged, the sharper the taste becomes.
Secondly, the type of jus you are pairing with the Provolone can also vary the flavour combination. Jus, also known as au jus, is a savoury soup broth with a beef flavour. It is typically served as a dipping sauce for sandwiches, such as the classic French Dip sandwich. The combination of juicy roast beef, au jus, melted cheese, and toasted bread creates an ultimate sandwich experience.
When pairing Provolone with jus, consider the following suggestions:
- For a classic combination, use Provolone Piccante, as its sharp and tangy flavour will complement the savoury beef jus.
- If you prefer a milder flavour profile, Provolone Dolce can add a subtle creamy and sweet note to the savoury jus.
- To enhance the flavour of the Provolone and jus combination, consider serving it on a crusty baguette or roll. The hard bread will soak up the jus, softening and creating a cohesive taste experience.
- For a more indulgent option, try melting the Provolone cheese on the sandwich before dipping it into the jus. This will create a warm and comforting bite.
In conclusion, when pairing Provolone cheese with jus, consider the type of Provolone and the flavours you want to highlight. Whether you choose the sharper Provolone Piccante or the milder Provolone Dolce, the combination of the cheese, jus, and bread will create a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Swiss cheese and jus
Swiss cheese is a great topping for a French dip sandwich, which is typically served with a small bowl of extra beef juice (au jus) for dipping. The French dip sandwich is a warm sandwich consisting of roast beef and cheese layered on top of a toasted French baguette. Swiss cheese is a good choice for this sandwich because it melts well and has a mild flavour that won't overpower the other ingredients. It also has a firm but elastic texture, which makes it easy to bite through without being too chewy.
Swiss cheese is a broad term for a variety of cheeses made in Switzerland, which can be hard or semi-hard with a nutty and buttery flavour. When melted, Swiss cheese becomes "gooey" and "slick, stretchy and runny", making it ideal for dishes like French dip sandwiches.
When making a French dip sandwich with Swiss cheese, it's important to use a good quality, crusty baguette that can hold up to the juices without getting soggy. The roast beef should be sliced thinly and warmed in the au jus before being placed on the baguette and topped with the cheese. The sandwich is then baked in the oven until the cheese is melted, and served with a small bowl of extra au jus for dipping.
Swiss cheese can also be used in other dishes that feature jus, such as fondue or grilled meats. Its mild flavour and melting texture make it a versatile cheese that can complement a variety of flavours without being overpowering.
Overall, Swiss cheese and jus are a great combination, especially when paired with roast beef and crusty bread in a French dip sandwich. The key to success is to use high-quality ingredients and to assemble and bake the sandwich just before serving to ensure the bread stays crisp and the cheese is melted and juicy.
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French dip sandwich
A French dip sandwich is a delicious, hearty meal that is surprisingly easy to make. It is a warm sandwich consisting of roast beef and cheese layered on top of a toasted French baguette or hoagie roll. The sandwiches are typically served with a small bowl of extra beef juice (au jus) for dipping.
Ingredients
- Bread: A hard, crusty bread like a baguette or hoagie roll is best. Softer bread will soak up the au jus too quickly and become soggy.
- Beef: Chuck roast, rump roast, or other cheaper cuts of beef that cook well in a slow cooker are ideal.
- Cheese: Swiss or provolone cheese is recommended, but you can use your favourite type.
- Au jus: This can be made by cooking the meat with spices and liquid in a slow cooker, or by heating beef consommé and water in a saucepan.
Method
First, season the beef with salt, pepper, and other desired spices like oregano and thyme. Sear the beef in a hot skillet with a little oil until browned on all sides.
If making the au jus from scratch, place the seasoned beef in a slow cooker and add the desired spices and liquid (this could include beef stock, red wine, or even coke). Cook on low heat for several hours until the meat is tender.
If using pre-made beef consommé, heat it in a saucepan with water to make a rich beef broth. Place the roast beef in the broth and warm for a few minutes.
To assemble the sandwich, slice the bread in half and lightly butter one side. Add slices of meat to the other side and top with cheese. Place in the oven on a high broil until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden.
Serve the sandwich with a small bowl of the warm au jus for dipping.
Variations
- To make it healthier, serve on a whole wheat bun and leave off the cheese.
- For a "Philly style" sandwich, add caramelized onions and bell peppers.
- Add some spice with jalapeños, yellow pepper, diced chillies, or crushed red pepper.
- For extra flavour, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or lemon asparagus.
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Italian beef sandwich
An Italian beef sandwich is a delicious and hearty meal, perfect for any time of the year. This sandwich is typically made with tender, slow-cooked beef and paired with spicy toppings and juices. Here's a detailed guide on how to make this mouth-watering sandwich:
Ingredients:
- Beef roast: Look for a 3-4 pound beef roast, preferably a boneless chuck roast or chuck shoulder pot roast.
- Beef consommé or broth: Canned beef consommé or beef broth with extra bouillon can be used.
- Peppers: Pepperoncini peppers or giardiniera (spicy pickled vegetables) add a nice kick to the sandwich.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning mix, fresh minced garlic, and kosher salt enhance the flavour.
- Bread: Hoagie rolls, French rolls, or any type of bun you prefer.
- Cheese: Pepper jack cheese or provolone cheese adds a creamy texture and mild flavour.
Instructions:
- Bring the beef roast to room temperature before cooking.
- Use a heavy-duty roasting pan or a Dutch oven that can go from stovetop to oven.
- Sear the meat: Heat some vegetable oil or olive oil in the pan over medium-high heat. Sear all sides of the roast until a nice brown crust forms.
- Slow cook the beef: Simmer at a lower heat for a longer period, about 6 hours, until the meat is tender and falls apart. Keep it covered in its natural juices and beef broth for maximum juiciness.
- Prepare the toppings: You can add extra toppings like red onions, sweet peppers, hot peppers, or other vegetables of your choice.
- Assemble the sandwich: Slice the beef thinly and place it on the bun. Top with your choice of cheese and any desired toppings.
- Serve with au jus: Ladle some of the beef juices into a small cup for dipping.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients and toppings to your taste preferences. This sandwich is best served with sides like pasta salad, fruit salad, potato chips, or baked Parmesan fries. Now you're ready to enjoy a delicious and authentic Italian beef sandwich!
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Best bread for cheese and jus
When it comes to choosing the best bread for a cheese and jus pairing, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to select a bread that can withstand the moisture of the jus without becoming soggy. Soft bread should be avoided as it will quickly soak up the liquid and cause the sandwich to fall apart. Instead, opt for a crusty bread with a hard exterior, such as a baguette, hoagie, sub roll, or any other type of crusty bread. This will provide a nice contrast in texture and ensure that your sandwich stays intact.
Another important factor is the flavour and quality of the bread. A good-quality, fresh baguette is often a popular choice as it has a crispy exterior that can hold up to the jus, while the inside remains soft and chewy. Toasting the bread can also help to add a bit of crunch and enhance the flavour. However, be cautious not to over-toast, as too much crustiness can be undesirable.
Additionally, consider the size and shape of the bread. For a hearty sandwich, a larger baguette or roll is ideal, while smaller slices or rolls can be used for more modest portions. The bread should be able to accommodate the cheese and jus without becoming overwhelmed.
When pairing cheese and jus, it's essential to consider the type of cheese being used. Different cheeses have varying strengths and flavours, so choose a bread that will complement the cheese rather than overpower it. For stronger-flavoured cheeses, a neutral bread like a traditional French baguette is a safe bet. For milder cheeses, you could experiment with different types of bread, such as a nutty, seeded loaf or a sweet brioche, to add another layer of flavour to the dish.
Lastly, don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different bread options. While a traditional baguette or hoagie is a classic choice for a reason, there's no harm in trying something new. As long as you keep in mind the key considerations of texture, flavour, and quality, you can explore various bread options to find your perfect pairing.
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Frequently asked questions
A French dip sandwich is a warm sandwich consisting of roast beef and cheese layered on top of a toasted French baguette or hoagie. The sandwiches are typically served with a small bowl of extra beef juice (au jus) for dipping.
Provolone, Swiss cheese, and Mozzarella are all popular choices to pair with jus.
A good-quality baguette is a popular choice, but any crusty bread such as a hoagie, sub roll, or ciabatta bread will work. It's important to avoid soft bread as it will soak up the jus too quickly and become soggy.
