Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Roast Beef Au Jus Sandwiches?
These are sandwiches made with tender, thinly-sliced deli roast beef simmered in a rich broth of French onion soup and beef consomme, served on toasted hoagie rolls with melted cheese.
What type of beef is best for this recipe?
Thinly sliced deli roast beef is ideal as it absorbs the au jus quickly and remains tender.
How do you make the dipping sauce for these sandwiches?
The dipping sauce, or au jus, is made by combining one 10-ounce can of French onion soup and one 10-ounce can of beef consomme in a pot.
What kind of cheese should I use?
Provolone or Swiss cheese are the most popular choices for their mild flavor and excellent melting properties.
What type of rolls are recommended?
Hoagie rolls are recommended because they are sturdy enough to hold the juicy beef and withstand dipping in the au jus.
How long does it take to cook the beef mixture?
The beef should simmer in the soup and consomme mixture for approximately 15 to 20 minutes over medium-low heat.
How do I toast the hoagie rolls?
Slice the rolls lengthwise, sprinkle with garlic powder, and place them under a broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown.
Can I make these sandwiches in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can combine the beef and soups in a slow cooker on low for 3 to 4 hours before assembling the sandwiches.
Is garlic powder necessary for the recipe?
While optional, garlic powder adds a savory depth of flavor to the toasted bread that complements the beef.
What is beef consomme?
Beef consomme is a rich, clarified beef stock that provides a deep, concentrated savory flavor to the dipping sauce.
Can I use leftover roast beef instead of deli meat?
Absolutely, as long as the leftover beef is sliced very thinly so it can absorb the flavors of the simmering liquid.
How many sandwiches does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make 4 hearty hoagie sandwiches.
Why should I add mayonnaise to the rolls?
Mayonnaise adds creaminess and acts as a slight moisture barrier to prevent the top half of the bun from becoming too soggy.
How do I melt the cheese on the sandwich?
After placing the beef on the rolls, layer the cheese on top and return them to the broiler for 2 to 4 minutes until bubbly.
Can I substitute the French onion soup?
You can substitute it with extra beef broth and sauteed onions, though the canned soup provides a specific seasoned profile.
What are some good side dishes for these sandwiches?
These pair well with potato chips, a crisp green salad, coleslaw, or even French fries.
Can I prepare the au jus in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the liquid mixture ahead of time and simply reheat it with the beef when you are ready to serve.
How should I serve the au jus?
Serve the warm liquid in small individual ramekins or bowls alongside each sandwich for dipping.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the beef in its liquid in an airtight container in the fridge; store the rolls and cheese separately to avoid sogginess.
What is the best way to reheat the leftovers?
Reheat the beef and au jus in a saucepan over medium heat, then assemble on fresh toasted rolls.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick lunch?
Yes, since it uses pre-sliced deli meat and canned soups, it can be prepared in about 30 minutes.
Can I add vegetables to the sandwich?
Sauteed mushrooms, green peppers, or caramelized onions are excellent additions to these sandwiches.
What if I don't have a broiler?
You can toast the rolls in a standard oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit or use a toaster oven until the cheese melts.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free hoagie rolls and ensuring the beef consomme and French onion soup are certified gluten-free.
What is the difference between this and a French Dip?
This recipe is a variation of a French Dip that uses French onion soup for a sweeter, more onion-forward dipping sauce.
Can I use different types of bread?
Yes, ciabatta rolls or French bread baguettes also work well for these sandwiches.
How do I prevent the bread from getting too soggy?
Toasting the bread thoroughly before adding the beef creates a crust that helps resist the moisture from the au jus.
Is beef consomme the same as beef broth?
No, consomme is more concentrated and has a richer flavor and clearer consistency than standard beef broth.
Can I skip the simmering step?
It is not recommended, as simmering allows the beef to soften and absorb the savory flavors of the soup.
Why cut the sandwiches diagonally?
Cutting diagonally makes the sandwich easier to handle and dip into the small bowls of au jus.