The English dip sandwich. The name itself sparks curiosity and perhaps a touch of confusion. While it sounds like a British culinary staple, it’s actually a relatively obscure term with roots firmly planted in American food culture. It refers to a specific type of sandwich, though the precise ingredients and preparation methods can vary quite a bit, leading to the mystery surrounding its true definition. In essence, it’s a roast beef sandwich served with a side of flavorful jus, designed for dipping. However, that’s just the beginning. Let’s unravel the enigma and explore the delightful depths of the English dip sandwich.
Unpacking the Basic Concept: Roast Beef and Au Jus
At its heart, the English dip sandwich is built upon two fundamental components: thinly sliced roast beef and au jus. The quality of both significantly impacts the final product.
The Star: Perfectly Cooked Roast Beef
The roast beef needs to be prepared meticulously. Overcooked or dry roast beef is a major culinary sin in the context of a dip sandwich. Ideally, it should be cooked to a medium-rare or medium doneness, ensuring tenderness and a rich, beefy flavor. The slices should be thin, allowing them to soak up the au jus without becoming soggy. Pre-packaged deli roast beef can work in a pinch, but freshly roasted beef is always the superior choice. The cut of beef used can also influence the taste and texture. Popular options include sirloin, ribeye, or even a leaner cut like round roast, depending on personal preference.
The Soul: Rich and Flavorful Au Jus
The au jus is more than just gravy; it’s the soul of the English dip sandwich. It’s a flavorful broth, typically made from the pan drippings of the roast beef, enriched with beef broth, herbs, and sometimes a touch of wine or Worcestershire sauce. The key is to achieve a deep, savory flavor that complements the beef without overpowering it. Simmering the au jus for an extended period allows the flavors to meld together and intensify, resulting in a truly exceptional dipping experience. A good au jus should be rich, slightly salty, and have a pleasant aroma.
Diving Deeper: Bread, Cheese, and Variations
Beyond the core components, the choice of bread, the inclusion of cheese, and other variations contribute significantly to the overall character of the English dip sandwich.
The Foundation: Choosing the Right Bread
The bread serves as the vessel for the roast beef and au jus, so selecting the right type is crucial. A sturdy roll or baguette is ideal, as it can withstand the soaking without falling apart. French rolls, sourdough rolls, or even crusty Italian bread are excellent choices. The bread should be toasted or lightly grilled to provide a bit of texture and prevent it from becoming excessively soggy when dipped. Soft, flimsy bread is generally avoided, as it will quickly disintegrate under the weight of the beef and moisture of the au jus.
The Melty Goodness: The Role of Cheese
While not always included, cheese can add a delightful layer of flavor and richness to the English dip sandwich. Provolone, Swiss, or even a mild cheddar are popular choices. The cheese is typically melted over the roast beef, either under a broiler or during a final heating of the sandwich. The gooey, melted cheese adds a creamy texture and complements the savory flavors of the beef and au jus. However, purists argue that cheese detracts from the pure, unadulterated beefy flavor, so its inclusion is often a matter of personal preference.
Beyond the Basics: Regional and Personal Variations
Like many classic dishes, the English dip sandwich has evolved over time, resulting in a variety of regional and personal variations. Some variations include:
- Adding Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory caramelized onions can add depth and complexity to the sandwich.
- Using Different Sauces: Some people experiment with horseradish sauce or a creamy Dijon mustard for an extra kick.
- Incorporating Vegetables: Thinly sliced tomatoes or roasted bell peppers can add freshness and color.
- Spicy Variations: A dash of hot sauce or chili flakes can add a fiery element to the au jus or the sandwich itself.
These variations highlight the flexibility of the English dip sandwich and allow for individual creativity in the kitchen. The key is to maintain the core principles of high-quality roast beef, flavorful au jus, and a sturdy bread.
Tracing the Origins: Is It Really English?
Despite its name, the English dip sandwich is not a traditional English dish. Its origins are likely rooted in the French dip sandwich, which is believed to have originated in Los Angeles, California.
The French Dip Connection
The French dip sandwich is widely credited to either Philippe the Original or Cole’s Pacific Electric Buffet, both in Los Angeles, around the early 20th century. The exact origin story is debated, but both establishments claim to have invented the dish. The basic concept of the French dip – roast beef served on a French roll with au jus – is essentially the same as the English dip sandwich. It’s possible that the “English” designation was simply a marketing ploy or a regional variation that emerged over time.
The American Adaptation
Regardless of its exact origins, the English dip sandwich is undoubtedly an American adaptation of the French dip. The name may have been chosen to evoke a sense of sophistication or to differentiate it from other similar sandwiches. It’s also possible that the term “English” was used loosely to describe a certain style of cooking or presentation. The lack of a definitive history makes it difficult to pinpoint the precise reason for the name.
Making Your Own English Dip Sandwich: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating your own English dip sandwich at home is a rewarding culinary experience. Here’s a simple guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Preparing the Roast Beef
Start with a good quality cut of beef, such as sirloin or ribeye. Season it generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Roast it in the oven at a moderate temperature until it reaches your desired level of doneness (medium-rare or medium is recommended). Let the roast beef rest before slicing it thinly.
Step 2: Crafting the Au Jus
While the roast beef is cooking, prepare the au jus. Deglaze the roasting pan with beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add additional beef broth, herbs (such as thyme and rosemary), and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Simmer the au jus for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Strain the au jus to remove any solids.
Step 3: Assembling the Sandwich
Slice open your chosen roll or baguette and lightly toast or grill it. Layer the thinly sliced roast beef onto the bread. If desired, add a layer of melted cheese.
Step 4: Dipping and Enjoying
Serve the sandwich with a side of the prepared au jus. Dip each bite of the sandwich into the au jus and savor the delicious combination of flavors.
Finding the Best English Dip Sandwich: A Quest for Flavor
While making your own English dip sandwich is a great option, sometimes you just want to enjoy one prepared by a professional. Finding the best English dip sandwich can be a culinary quest in itself.
Local Delis and Restaurants
Start by exploring local delis and restaurants. Look for establishments that specialize in sandwiches or have a reputation for using high-quality ingredients. Read online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends and family.
Key Factors to Consider
When evaluating an English dip sandwich, consider the following factors:
- Quality of the roast beef: Is it tender, flavorful, and thinly sliced?
- Flavor of the au jus: Is it rich, savory, and well-seasoned?
- Texture of the bread: Is it sturdy enough to hold the sandwich together without becoming soggy?
- Overall balance of flavors: Do the ingredients complement each other harmoniously?
The Pursuit of Perfection
The search for the perfect English dip sandwich is a personal journey. What one person considers to be the best may not appeal to another. However, by considering the key factors and exploring different options, you can discover your own favorite version of this classic sandwich.
The Enduring Appeal of the English Dip Sandwich
Despite its somewhat ambiguous name and variations in preparation, the English dip sandwich continues to hold a special place in American culinary culture. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity, its comforting flavors, and its customizable nature.
A Timeless Classic
The combination of tender roast beef, flavorful au jus, and sturdy bread is a timeless classic. It’s a satisfying and comforting meal that can be enjoyed any time of day.
A Versatile Dish
The English dip sandwich is also a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit individual tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer it with cheese, caramelized onions, or a spicy kick, the possibilities are endless.
A Culinary Adventure
Exploring the world of the English dip sandwich is a culinary adventure. From trying different variations to searching for the best version in your city, there’s always something new to discover. So, embrace the mystery, indulge in the deliciousness, and embark on your own English dip sandwich journey. The flavors are sure to delight.
What exactly IS an English Dip Sandwich?
An English Dip Sandwich, also known as a French Dip Sandwich (though the ‘English’ moniker persists in some circles), is a hot sandwich composed of thinly sliced roast beef served on a crusty roll or baguette. Crucially, it is accompanied by a portion of the pan juices, known as au jus, in which the sandwich is dipped before each bite.
The key element differentiating the English Dip from a regular roast beef sandwich is the au jus. The rich, flavorful pan drippings add moisture and intensify the beefy flavor, transforming it into a deeply savory and satisfying experience. Some variations may include toppings like Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, or horseradish sauce for added complexity.
Is it really called an “English” Dip or is it a typo?
While commonly known as a French Dip Sandwich, some older recipes and regions do refer to it as an “English Dip.” This is not strictly a typo, but rather a historical variation in terminology. The origins of the name are debated, with no definitive answer as to why “English” was sometimes used.
The more widely accepted and documented name is “French Dip,” and that is the terminology most restaurants and recipes utilize today. However, encountering “English Dip” isn’t entirely incorrect, though it’s less prevalent and may cause confusion. Using “French Dip” is the safer and more universally understood option.
What makes the au jus so important to an English Dip?
The au jus is the cornerstone of the English Dip (or French Dip) sandwich. It’s not merely a side sauce; it’s an integral part of the sandwich experience. The bread is deliberately dipped into the au jus, allowing it to soak up the rich beefy flavors and moisten the interior of the sandwich.
Without the au jus, the sandwich is simply a roast beef sandwich. The dipping process elevates the flavors and textures, creating a unique culinary experience. The contrast between the crispy crust of the bread and the juicy, flavorful interior is what truly defines the English Dip.
What kind of bread is best for an English Dip Sandwich?
The ideal bread for an English Dip sandwich is a sturdy, crusty roll or baguette. The bread needs to be able to withstand being dipped in au jus without falling apart completely. A soft, flimsy roll would become soggy and disintegrate.
The crust provides a textural contrast to the tender roast beef and moist interior created by the au jus. Options like a French roll, a torpedo roll, or even a sourdough baguette can all work well, provided they have a robust crust and a somewhat open crumb structure.
What kind of roast beef is traditionally used in an English Dip?
Thinly sliced roast beef is the standard filling for an English Dip sandwich. The specific cut of beef can vary, but typically it’s a leaner cut like top round, bottom round, or sirloin tip. These cuts are flavorful and relatively inexpensive, making them ideal for roasting and slicing thinly.
Some recipes might call for prime rib or other more expensive cuts for a richer flavor, but these are less common. The key is to roast the beef until it’s cooked through but still tender, and then slice it as thinly as possible, ideally using a meat slicer, to maximize the surface area that comes into contact with the au jus.
Can I make an English Dip vegetarian or vegan?
Creating a vegetarian or vegan version of an English Dip requires substituting the roast beef with a plant-based alternative and crafting a flavorful, non-meat-based au jus. Options for the “meat” include sliced portobello mushrooms, roasted eggplant, or seitan “beef.”
The au jus can be made using vegetable broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce (make sure it’s vegan, as some contain anchovies), and herbs like thyme and rosemary. Caramelized onions can also add depth of flavor. While it won’t replicate the exact flavor of the original, it can provide a similarly satisfying savory experience.
Where did the English Dip Sandwich originate?
The English Dip, better known as the French Dip, has disputed origins, but the most popular story points to Philippe the Original restaurant in Los Angeles, California, around 1918. The story goes that the owner, Philippe Mathieu, accidentally dropped a roll into a pan of roasting juices.
A police officer, liking the sound of it, requested the sandwich that way, and others followed suit. While Cole’s Pacific Electric Buffet, also in Los Angeles, claims to have invented the sandwich, the prevailing narrative and much of the historical evidence support Philippe the Original as the originator.