Do you plan to make a homemade vegan French dip recipe? If you need clarification about how to start, remember to find ways to replace the roast beef typically used in this dish. In my experience, thinly sliced sautéed mushrooms offer similar benefits in texture and flavor. What ingredients might you use?
Why Does It Work?
- Sautéed mushrooms mimic the texture and umami of beef, making the sandwich filling and satisfying.
- Homemade onion and mushroom broth serve as a rich, flavorful dip that complements the sandwich perfectly.
- Using vegan Worcestershire sauce ensures the dip maintains its traditional flavor while staying plant-based.
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Are you craving a savory, meaty sandwich but sticking to a plant-based diet? Finding a satisfying vegan alternative to classic comfort foods like the French dip can be challenging.
However, you mustn’t give up on enjoying your favorite dishes; just transform. Plan to explore a vegan French dip recipe that delivers all the hearty flavors and textures you love.
This recipe cleverly uses mushrooms and homemade vegan au jus to recreate the traditional experience without animal products.
Discover how you can still indulge in a delicious, juicy French dip sandwich that aligns with your vegan lifestyle. Dive into this culinary adventure and surprise your taste buds!
What Is Vegan French Dip?
A vegan French dip is a plant-based version of the classic French dip sandwich, traditionally made with roast beef and served with a flavorful dipping sauce or au jus.
In the vegan adaptation, the beef is replaced with alternatives like sautéed mushrooms, seitan, or jackfruit, which are chosen for their meaty texture and ability to absorb savory flavors.
These plant-based fillings are typically loaded onto a crusty baguette and served with a homemade, vegan-friendly au jus made from vegetable broth and seasonings.
This sandwich offers a delicious, cruelty-free option that retains the juicy, satisfying essence of the original dish.
Fact-The original French dip sandwich is believed to have originated in Los Angeles in the early 1900s, with multiple eateries claiming to have invented this beloved dish.
Recipe Directions
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice the onion into thin strips. Rinse the portobello caps to remove any dirt or debris. Slice each cap in half, then crosswise into 1/4-inch thick strips.
- Sauté Onions: In a deep skillet, add the butter and sliced onions. Sauté the onions over medium heat for a few minutes, or until they begin to soften.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Sauté the mushrooms until they release all their moisture and the liquid in the bottom of the skillet has evaporated (about 10 minutes). You should see some browned bits coating the bottom of the skillet.
- Deglaze Skillet: Add the vegetable broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder to the skillet. Stir to dissolve the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the liquid to come up to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes while you toast the bread.
- Toast Bread: Open the rolls and place them on a baking sheet, open sides up. Turn the oven on to broil and place the rolls in the oven on the middle rack. Watch the rolls closely and broil just until you see slight browning on the edges (about 5 minutes).
- Assemble Sandwiches: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to take the mushrooms and onions out of the au jus. Divide the mushrooms and onions among the four rolls. Top each sandwich with a slice of provolone.
- Melt Cheese: Return the sandwiches to the oven and broil for a few minutes more, or until the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Close the sandwiches and serve with the au jus from the skillet for dipping. Enjoy your delicious French dip sandwiches!
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Seitan: Mimics the texture of beef and absorbs flavors well.
- Jackfruit: Offers a pulled texture that’s excellent for soaking up the au jus.
- Lentils: Provides a more rustic texture, best for those who want a heartier filling.
- Miso Paste: Adding a bit of miso paste to the broth can deepen the umami flavor.
- Red Wine: A splash of red wine can enrich the au jus, giving it a more robust taste.
Add-Ons
- Caramelized Onions: Adds sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Sautéed Mushrooms: Enhance the umami and complement the main filling.
- Vegan Cheese: Slices of vegan provolone or Swiss cheese melted over the top add creaminess and depth.
- Horseradish Sauce: A vegan horseradish sauce can add a spicy kick.
Toppings
- Arugula or Spinach: Adds a fresh, peppery note to balance the savory flavors.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Offer sweetness and a soft texture.
- Giardiniera: This pickled vegetable mix introduces a tangy crunch.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or thyme can be sprinkled on top for added freshness.
Vegetable Substitutions
- Portobello Mushrooms: Thick, meaty, and with a robust flavor, portobello mushrooms are an excellent substitute for the beef typically used in French dips. They provide a similar chew and are perfect for absorbing the au jus.
- Eggplant: When thinly sliced and well-seasoned, eggplant can mimic the texture of meat. It’s particularly good at soaking up flavors, making it suitable for layering in a French dip sandwich.
- Bell Peppers: Sliced bell peppers can add a sweet, crisp contrast to the sandwich’s savory flavors. They work well when sautéed and combined with vegetables like onions and mushrooms.
- Zucchini: Thinly sliced or spiralized zucchini can offer a lighter, slightly crunchy texture that pairs well with the rich au jus.
- Cauliflower: Roasted cauliflower steaks can be a hearty, flavorful filling that complements the other ingredients while maintaining a firm texture.
- Sweet Potatoes: Thin slices of sweet potato can be roasted or sautéed to create a tender yet substantial filling that adds a unique sweetness to the sandwich.
Quick Tip-Try roasting your vegetables before adding them to the sandwich for an extra flavor boost in your vegan French dip. This enhances their natural sweetness and depth.
Best Side Dishes
- Sweet Potato Fries Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory dip, and their crisp texture is a pleasing counterpoint to the soft sandwich.
- Coleslaw A tangy, crisp coleslaw can add freshness and crunch, providing a light balance to the richness of the sandwich.
- Vegan Caesar Salad Tossed with a creamy, garlicky vegan Caesar dressing, this salad adds a refreshing element to the meal.
- Garlic-roasted Brussels Sprouts These hearty, flavorful side dishes complement the deep flavors of the French dip.
- Pickle Spears Their sharp acidity and crunch make pickles an ideal palate cleanser between bites of the rich sandwich.
- Kale Chips Crispy kale chips provide a crunchy, salty snack that pairs well with the soft texture of the sandwich.
How To Serve?
- Warm the Sandwich: Make sure the vegan French dip sandwich is nicely warmed before serving. This can be done in the oven or on a skillet to lightly toast the bread and warm the filling, enhancing the flavors and texture.
- Prepare the Au Jus: Heat the vegan au jus in a small saucepan. Ensure it’s hot and flavorful, ready for dipping. Consider straining the broth for a clearer, more refined presentation.
- Assemble with Care: If using additional toppings like caramelized onions or vegan cheese, add these to the sandwich just before serving to maintain their texture and temperature.
- Cut and Arrange: Slice the sandwich into manageable portions, typically in half or quarters, which makes it easier to dip and eat. Arrange these pieces neatly on a plate.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Pour the hot au jus into small bowls or ramekins. Each guest should have their dipping sauce to avoid double-dipping and to personalize the dipping experience.
- Include Side Dishes: Accompany the sandwich with complementary side dishes such as sweet potato fries, a small salad, or pickled vegetables. Arrange these neatly around the sandwich or on separate plates.
Quick Tip-To prevent soggy sandwiches, serve the au jus on the side for dipping rather than pouring it over the sandwich. This keeps the bread crisp and the flavors intense.
Storage & Make Ahead
Make-Ahead Filling
- The vegan meat substitute, like sautéed mushrooms or seitan, can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the filling gently before assembling the sandwiches to maintain texture and moisture.
Au Jus Preparation
- The vegan au jus can also be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply reheat it on the stove until hot when ready to serve.
Freezing Options
- Both the filling and the au jus freeze well. They can be stored in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Storing Assembled Sandwiches
- It’s best to avoid storing fully assembled sandwiches as the bread can become soggy. Instead, store the components separately and assemble them before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
- When ready to serve, reheat the filling and au jus separately to ensure each is properly warmed. Toast the bread if desired to refresh its texture.
Fact-The term “French dip” does not refer to French cuisine but is believed to originate from Los Angeles, where the sandwich was first created in the early 20th century.
Time-Saving Tips
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: Chop or slice your vegan meat substitutes, like mushrooms or seitan, and any vegetables, such as onions or bell peppers, ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator so they’re ready to cook when you need them.
- Use Store-Bought Vegan Broth: Opt for a high-quality store-bought vegetable broth for your au just to save time on making it from scratch. Enhance it with spices like garlic powder and soy sauce to deepen the flavor.
- Batch Cooking: Prepare larger quantities of the vegan meat substitute and au jus. These components store well in the fridge or freezer, making it easy to assemble sandwiches on busy days.
- Assemble Ingredients While Heating: While your filling is heating up, toast your baguettes and prepare any additional sandwich toppings, such as vegan cheese or caramelized onions.
- Utilize High-Heat Cooking Methods: Cooking your vegan meat substitute on a higher heat can reduce cooking time while still achieving a desirable texture and flavor.
- Microwave for Reheating: If you’ve pre-made your filling or au jus, using a microwave for reheating can save time compared to bringing them up to temperature on the stove.
Delicious Vegan French Dip Recipe To Pair With Main Dishes
The vegan French dip is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, featuring a hearty, plant-based filling like sautéed mushrooms or seitan tucked into a crusty baguette. Served with a savory vegan au jus for dipping, this sandwich offers a satisfying and cruelty-free alternative to the traditional meaty favorite. Perfect for vegans and meat-eaters alike, it’s a gourmet option for any meal.
18
servings30
minutes20
minutes350
kcalKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 1 Yellow onion
3 (about ½ lb.) 3 Portobello mushroom caps
2 Tbsp 2 Butter
1/8 tsp 1/8 Salt
1/8 tsp 1/8 Black pepper
1/4 tsp 1/4 Dried thyme
1/4 tsp 1/4 Dried oregano
2 cups 2 Vegetable broth*
1 Tbsp 1 Soy sauce
1/2 Tbsp 1/2 Brown sugar
1/8 tsp 1/8 Garlic powder
4 4 French or Hoagie rolls
4 4 Provolone slices
Directions
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by slicing the onion into thin strips. For the portobello caps, rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, slice each cap in half and proceed to cut them crosswise into thin strips, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Sauté Onions: Heat a deep skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once the butter has melted and starts to sizzle, add the sliced onions. Stir the onions occasionally and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they turn translucent and begin to soften.
- Cook Mushrooms: Now, add the sliced portobello mushrooms to the skillet along with the sautéed onions. Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Continue to cook the mushrooms and onions, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and the liquid in the skillet evaporates. This should take approximately 10-12 minutes, and you’ll notice some browned bits forming on the bottom of the skillet.
- Deglaze Skillet: To enhance the flavor and create a savory au jus, pour the vegetable broth into the skillet. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, incorporating them into the liquid. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Toast Bread: While the mushroom mixture is simmering, it’s time to toast the bread. Preheat your oven to the broil setting. Open the French or hoagie rolls and place them on a baking sheet, open sides facing up. Put the baking sheet in the oven on the middle rack and broil the rolls for about 3-5 minutes, or until they’re lightly toasted and just starting to brown around the edges. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Once the rolls are toasted, remove them from the oven. Using a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the cooked mushrooms and onions onto the bottom halves of the rolls, dividing them evenly among the four sandwiches. Top each sandwich with a slice of provolone cheese.
- Melt Cheese: Return the assembled sandwiches to the oven and place them back under the broiler. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- Serve: Finally, remove the sandwiches from the oven. Close each sandwich with the top half of the roll and serve immediately. For an authentic French dip experience, serve the sandwiches alongside small bowls of the au jus from the skillet for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful and satisfying French dip sandwiches!
- Equipment List
- Large skillet
- Saucepan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Bread knife
- Small bowls (for au jus)
- Spatula
Notes
- Choosing the Right “Meat” Substitute: Opt for high-quality, meaty plant-based substitutes like portobello mushrooms, seitan, or jackfruit. These ingredients absorb flavors well and offer a texture reminiscent of traditional roast beef.
- Creating Flavorful Au Jus: The au jus is key for this dish. Use a rich, homemade vegetable broth as the base and enhance it with soy sauce, vegan Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of liquid smoke for depth. Simmer with herbs like thyme and a bay leaf to infuse more flavor.
- Bread Selection: Choose a sturdy, crusty bread, such as a French baguette, that can hold up to dipping without becoming too soggy. Toasting the bread lightly before assembling can also help.
- Sautéing Vegetables: If adding vegetables like onions or bell peppers, sauté them until they are caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness, which complements the savory notes of the sandwich.
- Cheese Options: If you like cheese in your sandwich, use a meltable vegan cheese such as vegan provolone or mozzarella. Adding cheese enhances the richness and adds a creamy texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the sandwich immediately after assembling, with warm au jus on the side for dipping. This ensures the bread remains crisp and the fillings warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Keep The Sandwich From Getting Soggy When Dipping?
To prevent sogginess, lightly toast the bread before assembling the sandwich. Serve the au jus on the side and dip just before eating to maintain the bread’s crispness.
What Sides Pair Well With A Vegan French Dip Sandwich?
Traditional sides like French fries, sweet potato fries, or a side salad work well. For something different, try coleslaw, pickles, or vegan Caesar salad.
Is There A Way To Make The Vegan French Dip Soy-Free?
For a soy-free version, use a soy-free vegan meat substitute like mushrooms or lentils. Also, make sure your au jus and other ingredients, like vegan Worcestershire sauce, are soy-free.
How Long Can I Store The Leftovers?
The vegan meat substitute can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Store the au jus in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I Freeze The Vegan Meat And Au Jus?
Yes, the vegan meat substitute and the au jus can be frozen. Store them in airtight containers and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
