Taste the Heart of Illinois: Easy French Dipped Sandwich Recipe

Illinois has a rich culinary history, blending the best of American heartland traditions with influences from all over the world. One of the state’s most beloved sandwiches is the French Dipped Sandwich, a savory, mouth-watering delight perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly Chicago afternoon or preparing it for a cozy family meal, this sandwich brings together tender meat, fresh bread, and a delectable dipping sauce known as "au jus" (meaning "with juice" in French).

Photo bythissillygirlskitchen.com

The French Dipped Sandwich is all about simplicity, but don’t be fooled – it’s packed with flavor. Known for its combination of juicy, slow-cooked beef served on a crispy French roll, this Illinois-style dish is the perfect blend of rich textures and bold tastes. And the best part? It’s easy to make at home, no matter where you live. Let’s walk through how to create this iconic sandwich, Illinois style.

Recipe: Illinois Style Easy French Dipped Sandwich

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast or top round roast
• 1 French baguette or 4 crusty French rolls
• 4 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Provolone cheese slices (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the beef: Season the beef roast with black pepper, thyme, and rosemary. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides until golden, then set aside.
2. Make the au jus: In the same pot, add sliced onions and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, stirring to combine. Return the beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Cook the beef: Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the beef simmer for 2 to 3 hours, or until it’s tender and easily shredded. If you have a slow cooker, you can transfer the mixture to it and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Shred the beef: Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Strain the broth to create a smooth dipping sauce and return the shredded beef to the pot to soak up more flavor.
5. Assemble the sandwich: Slice the French baguette or rolls and pile on the shredded beef. If desired, place provolone cheese on top and broil for 2-3 minutes until melted.
6. Serve and dip: Pour the strained broth (au jus) into small bowls. Serve the sandwiches with the dipping sauce on the side, allowing everyone to dip their sandwich in the savory broth for the full French dipped experience.

A Sandwich That Brings Illinois to Your Plate

The French Dipped Sandwich is more than just a meal – it’s a flavorful experience. As you dip the warm, crusty bread into the rich au jus, the flavors explode, taking you straight to the heart of Illinois. Whether you’re serving this at a family gathering or treating yourself to a cozy lunch, this sandwich is the perfect comfort food.

This Illinois-style French Dipped Sandwich will remind you of the state’s famous comfort foods, like Chicago’s deep-dish pizza or hearty Italian beef sandwiches. With every bite, you’ll taste the warmth and soul of Illinois, where every meal is a reason to gather and enjoy good company.

Sources:

French Dip Sandwich Recipe (with Au Jus) (thegourmetbonvivant.com)

French Dip Sandwich Recipe (seriouseats.com)

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