French Dip Sandwich (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Key Components

01 - 6 soft hoagie rolls or French buns
02 - 12 slices of provolone cheese
03 - About 3 pounds of beef chuck roast, trimmed
04 - 1 tablespoon cooking oil, like vegetable oil

→ Rich Sauce Blend

05 - 1 bay leaf for that classic taste
06 - 1/3 cup of low-sodium soy sauce
07 - 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt to taste
09 - 1 cup of regular Coke (not diet)
10 - 1/4 cup of dried minced onions
11 - 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) beef consommé
12 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder for flavor
13 - 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
14 - 1 tablespoon beef bouillon granules
15 - 1/2 teaspoon powdery onion seasoning
16 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

# Instructions:

01 - Warm up some oil in a sturdy skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chuck on all sides so it gets a nice browned crust, then transfer it into the slow cooker.
02 - Dump the sauce components, like the consommé, Coke, soy sauce, and those awesome spices, right over the beef in your cooker. It’s all about adding that deep flavor as it simmers.
03 - Cook everything on LOW for about 4 hours. Once the beef is tender, take it out and slice it finely against the grain. Toss the sliced meat back in the cooker and let it absorb the juices for another 1-2 hours.
04 - Separate the fat from the cooking juices to make a dipping sauce. Pile the meat onto the split rolls, add 2 cheese slices on each, and bake at 350°F until the cheese melts beautifully. Serve with a small bowl of au jus for dipping.

# Notes:

01 - If beef consommé isn't available, beef broth works fine too. Just check with someone at the store if you're unsure where to find it.
02 - For a different method, roast in a covered dish at 425°F for 30 minutes, then at 300°F for 3-4 hours. Slice the meat after letting it rest for 15 minutes. Return it to a 200°F oven with the broth for 15 more minutes.
03 - Three pounds of beef is enough for six generously sized sandwiches.