The French dip sandwich, a mouthwatering combination of tender roast beef, melted cheese, and savory au jus, has been a staple of American cuisine for decades. However, the origin of this beloved sandwich is shrouded in mystery, with several restaurants and cities claiming to be its birthplace. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the French dip sandwich and explore the various claims of its invention.
A Brief History of the French Dip Sandwich
The French dip sandwich is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, during the height of the sandwich’s popularity in the United States. The sandwich typically consists of thinly sliced roast beef, served on a crusty baguette with melted cheese and a side of au jus, a savory beef broth. The au jus is a key component of the sandwich, as it adds a rich, meaty flavor that complements the beef and cheese perfectly.
The Claimants: Philippe’s and Cole’s
Two restaurants in Los Angeles, California, are often credited with inventing the French dip sandwich: Philippe’s and Cole’s. Both restaurants have been serving the sandwich for over a century, and each has its own unique story about how it came to be.
Philippe’s, a small deli located in the heart of Los Angeles, claims to have invented the French dip sandwich in 1918. According to the restaurant’s website, the sandwich was created by Philippe Mathieu, a French immigrant who owned the deli. Mathieu allegedly created the sandwich as a way to serve his customers a hearty, filling meal that was easy to eat on the go.
Cole’s, on the other hand, claims to have invented the French dip sandwich in 1908. The restaurant’s website states that the sandwich was created by Henry Cole, the restaurant’s founder, as a way to serve his customers a unique and delicious meal. Cole’s version of the sandwich features a slightly different recipe than Philippe’s, with a focus on slow-roasted prime rib and a side of au jus.
A Tale of Two Sandwiches
While both Philippe’s and Cole’s claim to have invented the French dip sandwich, there are some key differences between the two restaurants’ versions. Philippe’s sandwich features a thinner, more delicate slice of roast beef, while Cole’s sandwich features a thicker, more robust slice. Additionally, Philippe’s serves its sandwich with a side of au jus, while Cole’s serves its sandwich with a side of horseradish sauce.
Despite these differences, both restaurants’ versions of the French dip sandwich are delicious and well-loved by locals and visitors alike. In fact, the French dip sandwich has become a staple of Los Angeles cuisine, with many restaurants throughout the city serving their own versions of the sandwich.
The Debate Continues
While Philippe’s and Cole’s are the two most well-known claimants to the French dip sandwich’s invention, there are several other restaurants and cities that also claim to have created the sandwich. Some of these claimants include:
- The Berghoff, a restaurant in Chicago, Illinois, that claims to have invented the French dip sandwich in the 1890s.
Despite these claims, the true origin of the French dip sandwich remains a mystery. It’s possible that the sandwich was invented by multiple people in different locations, or that it evolved over time through a series of culinary experiments.
The Impact of the French Dip Sandwich
Regardless of its true origin, the French dip sandwich has had a significant impact on American cuisine. The sandwich has become a staple of restaurants and delis throughout the country, and its influence can be seen in many other types of sandwiches and dishes.
The French dip sandwich has also played a significant role in popular culture, with appearances in films, television shows, and literature. The sandwich has been name-checked in everything from “The Simpsons” to “Mad Men,” and has become a cultural touchstone for many Americans.
A Delicious Legacy
In conclusion, the French dip sandwich is a delicious and beloved dish that has become an integral part of American cuisine. While its true origin remains a mystery, the sandwich’s impact on popular culture and its enduring popularity are undeniable.
Whether you’re a fan of Philippe’s, Cole’s, or another restaurant’s version of the French dip sandwich, there’s no denying the sandwich’s appeal. So next time you’re in the mood for a hearty, satisfying meal, consider trying a French dip sandwich – your taste buds will thank you!
| Restaurant | Year of Invention | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Philippe’s | 1918 | Los Angeles, California |
| Cole’s | 1908 | Los Angeles, California |
| The Berghoff | 1890s | Chicago, Illinois |
| The Brasserie | Early 20th century | New York City, New York |
Key Takeaways:
- The French dip sandwich is a beloved dish that has become an integral part of American cuisine.
- The sandwich’s true origin remains a mystery, with several restaurants and cities claiming to have invented it.
- Philippe’s and Cole’s are the two most well-known claimants to the French dip sandwich’s invention.
- The sandwich has had a significant impact on popular culture, with appearances in films, television shows, and literature.
- The French dip sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What is the origin of the French Dip sandwich?
The origin of the French Dip sandwich is a topic of debate among food historians and enthusiasts. While its exact birthplace is unclear, it is often attributed to the city of Los Angeles, California, in the early 20th century. One story behind its creation dates back to the 1920s, when a Los Angeles restaurant owner, Philippe Mathieu, began serving a sandwich made with roast beef and melted cheese on a crusty baguette.
The sandwich quickly gained popularity, and its name “French Dip” is believed to have been coined due to the French bread used in its preparation. However, some argue that the sandwich may have originated in other parts of the United States, such as New York or Chicago, where similar sandwiches were served in the early 20th century. Despite the uncertainty surrounding its exact origin, the French Dip sandwich remains a beloved dish in many parts of the world.
Who is Philippe Mathieu, and what is his role in the creation of the French Dip sandwich?
Philippe Mathieu was a French immigrant who owned a restaurant in Los Angeles, California, in the early 20th century. According to legend, Mathieu created the French Dip sandwich in the 1920s as a way to serve his customers a hearty and flavorful meal. The story goes that a customer, who was a police officer, came into Mathieu’s restaurant and asked for a sandwich that would be easy to eat while standing up. Mathieu obliged by serving him a roast beef sandwich on a crusty baguette with melted cheese.
Mathieu’s restaurant, Philippe the Original, is still open today and claims to be the birthplace of the French Dip sandwich. While some dispute the accuracy of this claim, Philippe Mathieu is often credited with popularizing the sandwich and making it a staple of Los Angeles cuisine. His restaurant has been serving French Dip sandwiches for over 100 years, and it remains a popular destination for foodies and locals alike.
What are the key ingredients of a traditional French Dip sandwich?
A traditional French Dip sandwich typically consists of a few key ingredients: thinly sliced roast beef, melted cheese, and a crusty baguette. The roast beef is usually slow-cooked in a flavorful broth, which is then served on the side for dipping. The cheese is typically a mild variety, such as Swiss or mozzarella, and is melted to perfection. The baguette is usually toasted or grilled to give it a crispy texture.
The quality of the ingredients is essential to creating a delicious French Dip sandwich. The roast beef should be tender and flavorful, the cheese should be melted to perfection, and the baguette should be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Some variations of the sandwich may include additional ingredients, such as sautéed onions or bell peppers, but the traditional recipe is simple and straightforward.
How do you properly dip a French Dip sandwich?
Dipping a French Dip sandwich is an art form that requires some finesse. The key is to dip the sandwich in the broth just long enough to coat the bread and meat, but not so long that the sandwich becomes soggy. The ideal dipping time is usually around 2-3 seconds, depending on the temperature of the broth and the texture of the bread.
To properly dip a French Dip sandwich, start by holding the sandwich over the broth and gently lowering it into the liquid. Let it sit for a few seconds, then lift it out and let the excess broth drip off. Repeat the process as needed, taking care not to over-saturate the bread. The goal is to achieve a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with the broth adding depth and richness to the sandwich without making it too soggy.
Can you make a French Dip sandwich at home?
Making a French Dip sandwich at home is easier than you might think. The key is to start with high-quality ingredients, including thinly sliced roast beef, melted cheese, and a crusty baguette. You can slow-cook the roast beef in a flavorful broth on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, then assemble the sandwich and serve it with the broth on the side.
To make a French Dip sandwich at home, start by cooking the roast beef in a large pot or slow cooker with some beef broth and spices. While the beef is cooking, toast or grill the baguette and melt the cheese. Once the beef is tender, slice it thinly and assemble the sandwich. Serve it with the broth on the side, and let everyone dip their sandwich to their heart’s content.
What are some variations of the French Dip sandwich?
While the traditional French Dip sandwich is a classic, there are many variations that can add some excitement to this beloved dish. Some popular variations include adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the sandwich, using different types of cheese or bread, or adding some spice with hot peppers or mustard.
Other variations of the French Dip sandwich might include using different types of meat, such as prime rib or pastrami, or adding some extra flavor with herbs or spices. Some restaurants even offer vegetarian or vegan versions of the sandwich, using plant-based ingredients such as tofu or tempeh. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurer, there’s a French Dip sandwich variation out there for everyone.
Why is the French Dip sandwich a beloved dish in many parts of the world?
The French Dip sandwich is a beloved dish in many parts of the world due to its rich flavors, hearty texture, and comforting warmth. The combination of tender roast beef, melted cheese, and crispy bread is a match made in heaven, and the broth adds a depth of flavor that elevates the sandwich to new heights.
The French Dip sandwich is also a nostalgic dish for many people, evoking memories of childhood meals or special occasions. Whether you’re a foodie or just a lover of comfort food, the French Dip sandwich is a dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling full and content. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of good food to bring people together and create lasting memories.