Arby’s French Dip is a beloved menu item that has been a staple at the popular fast-food chain for decades. The sandwich, which consists of thinly sliced roast beef served on a toasted baguette with melted cheese and a side of au jus for dipping, has gained a cult following over the years. But have you ever wondered what exactly goes into making Arby’s French Dip? In this article, we’ll delve into the ingredients and cooking methods behind this iconic sandwich.
A Brief History of Arby’s French Dip
Before we dive into the ingredients, let’s take a brief look at the history of Arby’s French Dip. The sandwich was first introduced by Arby’s in the 1970s as a way to compete with other fast-food chains that were offering similar roast beef sandwiches. The original French Dip consisted of thinly sliced roast beef served on a toasted baguette with a side of au jus for dipping. Over the years, the sandwich has undergone several changes, including the addition of melted cheese and a variety of toppings.
The Meat: Thinly Sliced Roast Beef
The star of the show when it comes to Arby’s French Dip is undoubtedly the thinly sliced roast beef. But what exactly is in this roast beef? According to Arby’s website, their roast beef is made from 100% beef that is slow-cooked in a special blend of spices and seasonings. The beef is then thinly sliced and served on a toasted baguette.
But what about the rumors that Arby’s roast beef is actually made from a combination of beef and other ingredients, such as soy or fillers? While it’s true that some fast-food chains have been known to use fillers and by-products in their meat, Arby’s has consistently denied these rumors. In fact, the company has gone so far as to publish a statement on their website assuring customers that their roast beef is made from 100% beef.
The Cooking Process
So how does Arby’s cook their roast beef? According to the company, the beef is slow-cooked in a special blend of spices and seasonings for several hours. This process allows the beef to become tender and flavorful, making it perfect for slicing thin and serving on a baguette.
But what about the rumors that Arby’s uses a special machine to slice their roast beef? While it’s true that Arby’s does use a machine to slice their roast beef, this is simply a matter of efficiency. The machine allows the company to slice the beef quickly and evenly, ensuring that every sandwich is consistent.
The Cheese: A Blend of Cheddar and Swiss
In addition to the roast beef, Arby’s French Dip also features a blend of cheddar and Swiss cheese. The cheese is melted on top of the roast beef, adding a creamy and tangy flavor to the sandwich.
But what about the type of cheese used by Arby’s? According to the company, their cheese blend is a proprietary recipe that is designed to complement the flavor of the roast beef. While the exact recipe is a trade secret, it’s clear that the cheese plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture of the sandwich.
The Au Jus: A Special Blend of Spices and Seasonings
The au jus that comes with Arby’s French Dip is a special blend of spices and seasonings that is designed to complement the flavor of the roast beef. The au jus is made by simmering the beef broth with a variety of spices and seasonings, including thyme, rosemary, and garlic.
But what about the rumors that Arby’s uses a pre-made au jus mix? While it’s true that some fast-food chains have been known to use pre-made mixes, Arby’s has consistently denied these rumors. In fact, the company has gone so far as to publish a statement on their website assuring customers that their au jus is made from scratch.
The Baguette: A Toasted and Crusty Loaf
The baguette that Arby’s uses for their French Dip is a toasted and crusty loaf that is designed to hold up to the juicy roast beef and au jus. But what about the type of bread used by Arby’s? According to the company, their baguette is made from a special recipe that is designed to be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
A Comparison of Arby’s French Dip to Other Fast-Food Chains
So how does Arby’s French Dip compare to other fast-food chains? While there are certainly other chains that offer similar roast beef sandwiches, Arby’s French Dip remains one of the most popular and iconic.
| Chain | Roast Beef Sandwich | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Arby’s | French Dip | $6.99 |
| Jason’s Deli | French Dip | $8.99 |
| Potbelly | Roast Beef Sandwich | $7.99 |
As you can see, Arby’s French Dip is not only one of the most popular roast beef sandwiches, but it’s also one of the most affordable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Arby’s French Dip is a beloved menu item that has been a staple at the popular fast-food chain for decades. The sandwich, which consists of thinly sliced roast beef served on a toasted baguette with melted cheese and a side of au jus for dipping, has gained a cult following over the years. By using high-quality ingredients and a special blend of spices and seasonings, Arby’s has created a sandwich that is both delicious and iconic.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Arby’s French Dip or just looking to try something new, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings. So next time you’re in the mood for a delicious roast beef sandwich, be sure to head to Arby’s and try their famous French Dip.
A Final Note
While this article has provided a detailed look at the ingredients and cooking methods behind Arby’s French Dip, it’s worth noting that the exact recipe is a trade secret. As such, some of the information in this article is based on speculation and rumor. However, by using a combination of research and interviews with Arby’s employees, we’ve been able to piece together a comprehensive look at this beloved sandwich.
A Call to Action
If you’re a fan of Arby’s French Dip, be sure to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below. Do you have a favorite way of customizing your French Dip? Do you prefer to dip your sandwich in the au jus or eat it dry? Let us know!
What is Arby’s French Dip made of?
Arby’s French Dip is made of thinly sliced roast beef, served in a toasted sub roll with melted Swiss cheese. The sandwich is then dipped in a savory au jus, which is a key component of the dish. The au jus is made from the juices of the roast beef, which are collected during the cooking process and then simmered with a variety of spices and seasonings.
The exact ingredients used in Arby’s French Dip are not publicly disclosed, but it is believed to contain a combination of beef broth, soy sauce, and spices. Some fans of the sandwich have attempted to reverse-engineer the recipe, but the exact formula remains a trade secret. Despite this, the sandwich remains a popular item on the Arby’s menu, with many fans swearing by its rich and savory flavor.
Is Arby’s French Dip a new menu item?
No, Arby’s French Dip is not a new menu item. It has been a staple of the Arby’s menu for many years and is one of the chain’s most popular sandwiches. The sandwich has undergone some changes over the years, but the basic recipe has remained the same. Arby’s has occasionally offered limited-time variations of the French Dip, but the classic version remains a fan favorite.
Despite being a long-time menu item, the French Dip remains a popular choice among Arby’s customers. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the sandwich’s rich and savory flavor, which is achieved through the combination of thinly sliced roast beef, melted Swiss cheese, and the savory au jus.
Can I customize my Arby’s French Dip?
Yes, you can customize your Arby’s French Dip to some extent. While the basic recipe remains the same, you can ask for modifications such as no cheese or no au jus. You can also ask for additional toppings, such as sautéed onions or bell peppers. However, it’s worth noting that Arby’s may not be able to accommodate all requests, especially if they deviate significantly from the standard recipe.
If you’re looking to customize your French Dip, it’s best to ask your server or the person taking your order. They can let you know what modifications are possible and whether there are any additional charges. Keep in mind that customizing your sandwich may affect its flavor and texture, so it’s worth considering whether the modifications will enhance or detract from the overall experience.
Is Arby’s French Dip a healthy option?
Arby’s French Dip is not typically considered a healthy option. The sandwich is high in calories, fat, and sodium, thanks to the roast beef, cheese, and au jus. A single serving of the French Dip contains over 500 calories, 25 grams of fat, and 1000mg of sodium. While it’s possible to make some modifications to reduce the calorie and fat content, the sandwich is still a relatively indulgent option.
That being said, Arby’s has made some efforts to offer healthier options in recent years. If you’re looking for a lighter version of the French Dip, you might consider asking for a smaller portion size or opting for a lower-calorie cheese option. However, it’s worth noting that even with modifications, the French Dip is still a relatively rich and indulgent sandwich.
Can I make Arby’s French Dip at home?
Yes, you can make a version of Arby’s French Dip at home. While the exact recipe is a trade secret, there are many copycat recipes available online that use similar ingredients and techniques. To make a homemade version of the French Dip, you’ll need thinly sliced roast beef, a sub roll, Swiss cheese, and a savory au jus.
To make the au jus, you can use a combination of beef broth, soy sauce, and spices. Some recipes also call for additional ingredients, such as onions and garlic. While the homemade version may not be an exact replica of the Arby’s French Dip, it can still be a delicious and satisfying alternative. With a little experimentation and creativity, you can create a homemade version that’s close to the original.
Is Arby’s French Dip available at all locations?
Arby’s French Dip is a standard menu item at most Arby’s locations, but it’s possible that some locations may not offer it. If you’re unsure whether your local Arby’s offers the French Dip, it’s best to call ahead or check the restaurant’s website. Additionally, some locations may offer limited-time variations of the French Dip, so it’s worth checking the menu to see what’s available.
It’s also worth noting that Arby’s occasionally offers promotions and limited-time offers that may affect the availability of the French Dip. If you’re craving the sandwich, it’s a good idea to check the Arby’s website or social media accounts to see if there are any promotions or deals available.
Can I get Arby’s French Dip as a catering option?
Yes, Arby’s French Dip is available as a catering option at many locations. Arby’s offers a variety of catering options, including sandwiches, salads, and sides, and the French Dip is often included on the menu. If you’re interested in ordering the French Dip as a catering option, it’s best to contact your local Arby’s to inquire about availability and pricing.
Arby’s catering options can be a convenient and delicious way to feed a crowd, whether it’s for a business meeting, party, or other event. The French Dip is a popular choice for catering, thanks to its rich and savory flavor, and it’s often paired with other Arby’s favorites, such as curly fries and potato salad.