While the sandwich may have European roots, it’s the American knack for adaptation and reinvention that has turned it into a beloved staple, emblematic of the nation’s culinary landscape. In other words, sandwiches are very American, and the French Dip is an interesting example.

Okay, What’s a French Dip?

To those who haven’t had one, the French Dip is the most boring sandwich ever invented—even more boring than the BLT. But to those in the know, the French Dip is an incredible combination of a few simple ingredients: French bread, roast beef, optional Swiss cheese, and au jus dipping gravy.

The French Dip sandwich is a bit of an enigma. It is an incredibly simple sandwich, to the point where people I know have scoffed at the very idea of it. It’s true, this ain’t no twenty-ingredient muffaletta. Originally, it’s a three-part humble beast (though these days it’s usually made with four components).

The French Dip is a masterclass in minimalism. It relies on a few high-quality ingredients that complement each other perfectly. There's no need for complicated sauces or extra toppings.The key is tender, thinly sliced roast beef, often cooked to medium-rare perfection. The beef is juicy, flavorful, and melts in your mouth. The sturdy yet soft French roll is also important because it can hold up to dipping without falling apart. It should be crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. Finally, Au jus is the real star. Au jus is a savory, beefy broth made from the juices and drippings of the roast. It’s rich, flavorful, and adds an extra layer of depth to the sandwich. Dipping the sandwich into the au jus enhances the flavor and provides a delightful textural contrast.

Not to mention, the French Dip has an undeniable comfort factor. Warm beef, hearty bread, and hot broth make it a satisfying and cozy meal. Perfect for ma-and-pa diners as well as nights in.

The French Dip is… Californian?

The French Dip ain’t French. It’s called the French Dip because you dip it in a French-style au jus. However, it was created in Los Angeles, likely by Philippe Mathieu or Cole's Pacific Electric Buffet in the early 20th century (they both claim to have invented the sandwich around the year 1918). Both restaurants still operate today and have contributed to the sandwich’s enduring popularity through their long-standing reputations. The French Dip gained prominence due to its unique concept and the rise of sandwich shops and diners. Being in Los Angeles, a burgeoning metropolis with a diverse population and a growing food scene, provided a fertile ground for the sandwich to gain a loyal following. In the early days, the sandwich’s unique appeal and the flavorful au jus likely spread through word of mouth. Regular patrons at Philippe’s and Cole’s would have shared their delicious experiences, bringing in more curious diners. However, as diners and delis became central to American food culture, the French Dip fit perfectly into this trend. It offered a hearty, satisfying meal that was both affordable and easy to prepare.

So What Do We Do With this Sammich?

Well, you eat it, and that should have been obvious.

But seriously, here’s some stuff to keep in mind…

1. Quality Ingredients Matter: Since the French Dip is all about simplicity, the quality of each component really shines through. Opt for high-quality roast beef, fresh French rolls, and a well-made au jus.

2. Temperature is Key: Serve the sandwich warm, and make sure the au jus is hot. If you’re making it at home, keep the components separate until you’re ready to eat, so everything stays at its best.

3. Customize to Your Taste: While the classic French Dip is wonderful as-is, there’s room for personalization. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, add a slice of caramelized onion, or even a touch of horseradish for an extra kick. Just remember, the goal is to complement, not overpower, the simple elegance of the original sandwich.

4. Dipping Technique: Don’t be shy with the au jus. Dunk the sandwich generously, letting it soak up the savory broth. The goal is to achieve that perfect balance of crispy exterior and a slightly soggy interior.

5. Pairing Ideas: Complement your French Dip with classic sides like a crisp pickle, potato chips, or a simple side salad. A cold drink can also be a great choice to balance out the rich flavors of the sandwich.

Ultimately, the French Dip’s charm lies in its straightforwardness. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, less is more. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a sandwich that delivers both comfort and flavor with minimal fuss, the French Dip is the way to go. Enjoy!

    Matthew Christensen
    Weekly Newsletter Contributor since 2023
    Email the author! matthew@dvo.com