What Cheese for French Dip?
The best cheese for a French Dip sandwich is generally a meltable and flavorful variety, with options like provolone, Swiss, and Monterey Jack being popular choices due to their ability to complement the rich beef and savory au jus.
Understanding the French Dip Landscape
The French Dip sandwich, a culinary classic, boasts a simple yet satisfying combination: thinly sliced roast beef nestled in a crusty roll, served with a side of au jus for dipping. The choice of cheese can significantly enhance, or detract, from this experience. It’s not just about slapping any cheese on it; it’s about finding a cheese that complements the beef’s richness, melts beautifully, and doesn’t overpower the other flavors. We’ll explore the best options and why they work.
The Holy Trinity: Provolone, Swiss, and Monterey Jack
These three cheeses consistently top the list for French Dip sandwiches, each offering a slightly different flavor profile and melting characteristic. Understanding these differences is key to crafting your perfect dip.
- Provolone: Offers a mild, slightly tangy flavor and excellent meltability. Its subtle taste allows the beef to remain the star while adding a creamy texture. Both mild and sharp provolone work well, depending on your preference for intensity.
- Swiss: Known for its distinctive nutty and slightly sweet flavor, Swiss cheese brings a delightful complexity to the sandwich. Its melt is smooth and even. Emmental Swiss or Baby Swiss are suitable choices.
- Monterey Jack: A mild, buttery cheese that melts exceptionally well. Monterey Jack provides a creamy texture without overpowering the other ingredients. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle cheese flavor.
Beyond the Basics: Expanding Your Cheese Horizons
While provolone, Swiss, and Monterey Jack are reliable choices, other cheeses can also work well, adding unique dimensions to your French Dip.
- Havarti: Creamy and slightly sweet, Havarti provides a rich and buttery flavor that complements the beef.
- Fontina: A semi-soft cheese with a nutty and earthy flavor that melts beautifully.
- Gouda: Offers a rich, caramel-like flavor, especially when aged. However, use sparingly as its stronger flavor can dominate.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Cheese
The best cheese is subjective, but here are key factors to consider:
- Meltability: The cheese should melt smoothly and evenly, creating a desirable texture.
- Flavor Profile: The cheese should complement the beef and au jus, not clash with them.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best cheese is the one you enjoy the most!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing the wrong cheese can ruin your French Dip. Here are some common pitfalls:
- Strong, pungent cheeses: Avoid cheeses like blue cheese, gorgonzola, or sharp cheddar, as their strong flavors will overpower the other ingredients.
- Cheeses that don’t melt well: Avoid hard cheeses like Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.
- Overdoing it with quantity: Too much cheese can make the sandwich heavy and greasy.
Choosing the Right Bread
The bread is as important as the cheese. A sturdy roll that can withstand the au jus is essential.
- French Roll: A classic choice with a slightly crusty exterior and a soft interior.
- Hoagie Roll: A longer roll that works well for larger French Dips.
- Ciabatta: Offers a chewy texture and a slightly tangy flavor.
Perfecting the Au Jus
A rich and flavorful au jus is crucial for a truly exceptional French Dip.
- Use high-quality beef broth.
- Add caramelized onions, garlic, and herbs for depth of flavor.
- Simmer for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Table: Cheese Comparison for French Dip Sandwiches
| Cheese | Flavor Profile | Meltability | Complementary Flavors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provolone | Mild, slightly tangy | Excellent | Beef, Herbs |
| Swiss | Nutty, slightly sweet | Excellent | Beef, Caramelized Onions |
| Monterey Jack | Mild, buttery | Excellent | Beef, Mild Spices |
| Havarti | Creamy, slightly sweet | Good | Beef, Roasted Vegetables |
| Fontina | Nutty, earthy | Good | Beef, Mushrooms |
| Gouda (Aged) | Rich, caramel-like | Good | Beef, Spicy Au Jus |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if I don’t like any of the standard cheeses?
Experiment with other mild, meltable cheeses like Mozzarella (though it can be a bit bland) or even a very mild cheddar if you prefer a stronger flavor profile. The key is to choose something that doesn’t overpower the beef and au jus.
Can I use a cheese blend instead of a single cheese?
Yes! Blending cheeses can create a more complex and interesting flavor. A blend of provolone and Monterey Jack, or Swiss and Gruyere (use Gruyere sparingly due to its stronger flavor) can be particularly delicious.
Is it better to use sliced cheese or shredded cheese?
Sliced cheese generally melts more evenly and smoothly than shredded cheese. However, if you’re using shredded cheese, ensure it’s high-quality and melts well. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses that contain cellulose, which can hinder melting.
Should I add the cheese before or after dipping the sandwich in the au jus?
Adding the cheese before dipping allows it to melt slightly from the heat of the beef. After dipping, the melted cheese will meld with the au jus for an even more flavorful experience.
Can I use a vegan cheese alternative?
Yes, there are several vegan cheese alternatives that melt well. Look for brands specifically designed for melting, such as those made with cashews or tapioca starch. Flavor profiles can vary, so read reviews to find one that suits your taste.
How much cheese should I use per sandwich?
A good starting point is about 2-3 ounces of cheese per sandwich. Adjust the amount to your liking, but remember that too much cheese can overwhelm the other flavors.
What’s the best way to melt the cheese on the sandwich?
You can melt the cheese under a broiler, in a toaster oven, or even by covering the sandwich with foil and placing it in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Does the type of bread affect the cheese choice?
To some extent, yes. A richer, denser bread like brioche might stand up to a slightly stronger cheese, while a lighter roll might be better suited to a milder cheese.
Can I add other toppings besides cheese?
Absolutely! Caramelized onions, roasted peppers, and horseradish sauce are all popular additions that complement the beef and cheese.
What drinks pair well with a French Dip sandwich?
A light-bodied beer, such as a pilsner or lager, pairs well with the richness of the sandwich. Red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, can also be a good choice.
How can I prevent my sandwich from getting soggy when dipped in the au jus?
Dip only the bottom half of the sandwich in the au jus to prevent it from becoming overly soggy. Also, use a sturdy roll that can withstand the moisture.
What’s the most important factor in making a great French Dip?
While the cheese is important, the quality of the beef and the flavor of the au jus are paramount. Start with high-quality ingredients, and the rest will fall into place.