Roast beef sandwiches are a classic comfort food, beloved for their rich, savory flavor and tender meat. Whether you’re enjoying one at a deli or making it at home, the right accompaniments can turn a simple sandwich into a memorable meal. Let’s dive into the best sides, sauces, and beverages to complement your roast beef sandwich.
What Goes Well with Roast Beef Sandwich?
Why Are Roast Beef Sandwiches So Popular?
Roast beef sandwiches have stood the test of time. The combination of tender, flavorful beef and fresh bread is simply irresistible. Plus, they can be customized with various toppings and condiments to suit any taste.
Side Dish Pairings
What Vegetables Go Well with a Roast Beef Sandwich?
Vegetables are a great way to add freshness and crunch to your meal, balancing out the rich flavors of roast beef.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with a roast beef sandwich. The creamy, tangy flavor of coleslaw complements the savory beef, and its crunchy texture adds a satisfying contrast.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabbage | 2 cups | Shredded |
| Carrots | 1 cup | Shredded |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup | |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tbsp | |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp | |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Pickles
Pickles add a tangy and refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the roast beef. Whether you prefer dill, bread and butter, or spicy pickles, they all work wonderfully as a side or even as a topping.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions make a fantastic side dish. Their smoky, slightly charred flavor complements the roast beef and adds a touch of healthy goodness to your meal.
Starch Pairings
What Starches Go Well with a Roast Beef Sandwich?
Starches help make your meal more filling and can soak up any delicious juices from the sandwich.
French Fries
French fries are a classic pairing with any sandwich, and roast beef is no exception. Whether you prefer them crispy or soft, seasoned or plain, fries are always a hit.
Potato Salad
Potato salad, with its creamy texture and flavorful dressing, pairs beautifully with roast beef sandwiches. The combination of tender potatoes and tangy dressing makes for a delicious side dish.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes | 4 cups | Cooked and diced |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup | |
| Mustard | 2 tbsp | |
| Pickles | 1/2 cup | Chopped |
| Green onions | 1/4 cup | Chopped |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a comfort food favorite that pairs well with roast beef sandwiches. The creamy, cheesy pasta adds a rich and satisfying element to your meal.
Sauces and Condiments
What Sauces Go Well with a Roast Beef Sandwich?
The right sauce can elevate the flavor of your sandwich, adding moisture and an extra layer of taste.
Horseradish Sauce
Horseradish sauce is a classic choice for roast beef. Its sharp, spicy flavor cuts through the richness of the meat, creating a perfect balance.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Horseradish | 1/4 cup | Freshly grated |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup | |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Au Jus
Au jus, a flavorful beef broth, is perfect for dipping roast beef sandwiches. It enhances the beefy flavor and adds a moist, savory touch to each bite.
Mustard
Whether you prefer Dijon, spicy brown, or classic yellow, mustard adds a tangy kick that pairs well with roast beef. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance your sandwich.
Unique Pairings
What Unique Ingredients Go Well with a Roast Beef Sandwich?
Exploring unique pairings can make your roast beef sandwich even more exciting and delicious.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese, with its bold and tangy flavor, pairs wonderfully with roast beef. Crumble it onto your sandwich or mix it into a creamy spread for a unique and delicious twist.
Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory depth of flavor to your sandwich. Their rich taste complements the beef perfectly and adds a gourmet touch.
| Unique Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Blue cheese | 1/2 cup | Crumbled |
| Caramelized onions | 1 cup | Cooked until golden brown |
| Arugula | 1 cup | Fresh and peppery |
Arugula
Arugula’s peppery bite adds a fresh and slightly spicy contrast to the rich roast beef. It’s a great way to add some greens to your sandwich.
Beverage Pairings
What Beverages Go Well with a Roast Beef Sandwich?
The right drink can enhance your dining experience, complementing the flavors of your meal.
Red Wine
A bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, pairs beautifully with roast beef. The rich, tannic flavors of the wine complement the savory beef, making each bite more enjoyable.
| Beverage | Suggested Pairing |
|---|---|
| Red Wine | Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot |
| Beer | Stout, Porter |
| Soft Drinks | Cola, Iced Tea |
| Cocktails | Bloody Mary, Old Fashioned |
Beer
For beer lovers, a stout or porter is a great choice. The robust, malty flavors of these beers enhance the richness of the roast beef.
Soft Drinks
Soft drinks like cola and iced tea are classic choices that pair well with roast beef sandwiches. Their sweetness and acidity balance the savory flavors of the beef.
Cooking Methods
What Cooking Methods Work Best for Roast Beef?
The way you cook your roast beef can significantly impact the flavor and texture of your sandwich.
Roasting
Roasting is a traditional method that brings out the best in beef. Cook your roast beef slowly in the oven until it’s tender and flavorful. This method ensures a juicy, delicious result.
| Cooking Method | Notes |
|---|---|
| Roasting | Cook slowly in the oven |
| Slow Cooking | Cook in a slow cooker for tender beef |
| Grilling | Adds a smoky flavor to the beef |
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is another excellent method for making roast beef. Cook your beef in a slow cooker with some broth and seasonings until it’s fall-apart tender.
Grilling
Grilling your roast beef adds a smoky flavor that can make your sandwich even more delicious. Sear the beef over high heat, then finish cooking it over indirect heat until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Recipe Ideas
What Are Some Delicious Recipes with Roast Beef Sandwiches?
Classic Roast Beef Sandwich
A classic roast beef sandwich is simple yet delicious. Pile thinly sliced roast beef onto a fresh roll, add some horseradish sauce and arugula, and you have a perfect sandwich.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roast beef | 8 oz | Thinly sliced |
| Rolls | 4 | Fresh |
| Horseradish sauce | 1/2 cup | See recipe above |
| Arugula | 1 cup | Fresh |
French Dip Sandwich
A French dip sandwich is a delicious twist on the classic roast beef sandwich. Serve the beef on a crusty roll with a side of au jus for dipping.
Roast Beef and Blue Cheese Sandwich
For a gourmet touch, try a roast beef and blue cheese sandwich. Spread some blue cheese on your roll, add the roast beef and caramelized onions, and enjoy.
Conclusion
Roast beef sandwiches are a versatile and delicious meal that can be enjoyed in many ways. From classic side dishes and sauces to unique pairings and beverages, there are countless ways to elevate your sandwich experience. Try out these suggestions and discover new favorite combinations that make every bite unforgettable.
FAQs
What vegetables go well with a roast beef sandwich?
Coleslaw, pickles, and grilled vegetables are excellent choices that add freshness and crunch to your meal.
What sauces go well with a roast beef sandwich?
Horseradish sauce, au jus, and mustard are fantastic options that enhance the flavor of roast beef.
Can you pair a roast beef sandwich with starches?
Yes, French fries, potato salad, and macaroni and cheese are great starch pairings that complement roast beef sandwiches.
What beverages go well with a roast beef sandwich?
Red wine, beer, and soft drinks like cola and iced tea are excellent beverage choices.
What are some unique pairings for a roast beef sandwich?
Blue cheese, caramelized onions, and arugula add interesting and delicious flavors to your roast beef sandwich.
With these pairings and tips, your roast beef sandwich experience is sure to be delightful. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations and find your perfect match!