The French dip with beef consommé is a beloved classic that combines simple ingredients with bold, satisfying flavors. Often served in diners, pubs, and home kitchens across North America, this sandwich has stood the test of time thanks to its savory beef, crusty bread, and rich dipping broth. What makes it truly memorable is the beef consommé a clarified, deeply flavorful broth that brings out the best in every bite. Whether enjoyed as comfort food on a rainy day or served at gatherings, the French dip sandwich with beef consommé continues to capture the hearts and taste buds of food lovers everywhere.
What Is a French Dip Sandwich?
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
A traditional French dip sandwich is made with thinly sliced roast beef, piled high on a crusty French roll or baguette. The sandwich is typically served hot and accompanied by a small bowl of warm beef broth for dipping. Though it originated in Los Angeles, not France, its name reflects the French-style bread used in the recipe.
The Role of Beef Consommé
Beef consommé is not just any broth. It’s a clarified stock that has been simmered with egg whites and mirepoix (a mix of onions, carrots, and celery) to remove impurities, resulting in a clear, concentrated, and intensely flavored liquid. In a French dip sandwich, this consommé replaces regular beef broth, adding a depth of flavor that elevates the dish to a new level.
Origins and Popularity
A Los Angeles Classic
The French dip sandwich is believed to have been created in the early 20th century in Los Angeles. Two restaurants, Philippe the Original and Cole’s, claim to have invented it. Regardless of its true origin, the sandwich gained popularity quickly and is now a mainstay on menus across the U.S. and beyond.
Why People Love It
There’s something inherently comforting about the combination of warm, tender meat and rich consommé. The textures and temperatures contrast perfectly: the crusty bread holds up to the dipping, the beef melts in your mouth, and the consommé adds umami and warmth. It’s a sensory experience that’s hard to beat.
How to Make French Dip with Beef Consommé
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.5 to 2 pounds of thinly sliced roast beef (deli-style or homemade)
- 4 to 6 crusty hoagie rolls or French baguettes
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of beef consommé, or homemade if preferred
- 1 to 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth (optional, for added volume)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for toasting rolls)
- Optional: provolone, Swiss, or mozzarella cheese
Cooking Instructions
To make a classic French dip with beef consommé, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven or broiler for toasting the rolls.
- Warm the beef consommé in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth if needed to make more dipping liquid. Keep it warm but don’t boil.
- Place the sliced roast beef into the consommé and let it warm gently for 23 minutes.
- Split your hoagie rolls and toast them lightly with butter if desired. Toasting prevents sogginess and adds texture.
- Using tongs, layer the warm beef onto the rolls. Add cheese if using, and melt it under the broiler for about a minute.
- Serve with a small bowl of the consommé on the side for dipping.
Tips for Perfecting the Sandwich
Choosing the Right Bread
A crusty French roll is ideal for a French dip because it holds up well when dipped in the consommé. Avoid overly soft rolls, which can become soggy and fall apart. A slight toast helps preserve structure and adds a golden crunch to each bite.
Best Cuts of Beef
Roast beef is the traditional filling, and deli-sliced versions work well for convenience. However, if you prefer to make it from scratch, opt for cuts like top round, rump roast, or chuck roast cooked until tender. Leftover roast beef from a Sunday dinner also makes an excellent sandwich filling.
Enhancing the Consommé
Canned beef consommé is convenient, but if you want to deepen the flavor, you can simmer it with garlic, thyme, bay leaf, and a splash of red wine for 1015 minutes. Strain before serving to maintain the clarity of the consommé.
Variations to Explore
Cheese Additions
Though not part of the original recipe, many people love adding melted cheese to their French dip. Provolone, Swiss, and mozzarella are popular choices. The gooey texture pairs well with the warm beef and adds a creamy element to balance the saltiness of the consommé.
Onions and Peppers
For a more robust version, try sautéing onions or bell peppers and adding them to the sandwich. Caramelized onions, in particular, lend a sweet-savory contrast that enhances the flavor profile.
Horseradish or Mustard
A thin layer of horseradish sauce or spicy mustard can provide a zesty punch without overpowering the other flavors. Just use sparingly to maintain balance.
Pairings and Sides
Best Side Dishes
French dip sandwiches are hearty enough to stand on their own, but the right side dish can turn them into a complete meal. Some great options include:
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Potato salad or coleslaw
- Dill pickles or pickled vegetables
- Simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
Drinks That Complement
Pair your sandwich with a cold beer, iced tea, or a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. The richness of the beef consommé pairs well with drinks that have a strong, clean finish.
French Dip in Popular Culture
Restaurant Menus and Modern Takes
The French dip with beef consommé appears on countless restaurant menus, from upscale eateries to casual diners. Many chefs have created their own versions, sometimes using prime rib or brisket, and offering house-made consommé as a signature dipping sauce. These gourmet twists show how versatile and enduring the sandwich truly is.
A Comfort Food Favorite
For many people, the French dip is a go-to comfort food. Its warmth, familiarity, and rich flavor make it a nostalgic favorite. Whether it’s a childhood memory or a weekend treat, this sandwich continues to bring joy to generations of eaters.
The French dip with beef consommé is more than just a sandwich it’s a culinary experience rooted in simplicity, flavor, and comfort. The combination of tender beef, crusty bread, and a savory dipping broth makes it unforgettable. By using high-quality ingredients and understanding the role of consommé, you can create a version that’s both authentic and uniquely yours. Whether you’re preparing it at home or ordering at your favorite restaurant, this timeless dish never fails to satisfy. For fans of hearty, savory meals, the French dip with beef consommé remains a flavorful icon in the world of sandwiches.