Ingredients:

4 lbs beef chuck roast

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 large onion, thinly sliced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup beef broth

1/2 cup soy sauce

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon dried thyme

6-8 hoagie rolls

8-12 slices provolone cheese

Preparation:

Sear the beef chuck roast, seasoned with salt and pepper, in a skillet with olive oil until it forms a golden-brown crust.

Place the onions and garlic in the slow cooker, topped with the seared roast.

Mix beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and thyme. Pour over the beef.

Cook on low for 8 hours, or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily.

Shred the beef and skim the fat from the cooking juices, discarding the bay leaf. Use the juices as au jus for dipping.

Broil the hoagie rolls with shredded beef and provolone cheese until the cheese melts.

Serve immediately, accompanied by warm au jus.

Variations & Tips:

For added flavor, mix a splash of red wine into the broth.

Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Sautéed mushrooms can be added for an earthy flavor.

Refrigerate the juices for easier fat removal, resulting in a clearer au jus.

A dab of horseradish sauce on the bun adds a tangy zest.

Select high-grade chuck roast for the best flavor.

Enjoy this effortless yet satisfying meal, a testament to the beauty of simple, slow-cooked goodness. The French Dip Sandwich is not just a meal; it’s a culinary journey that promises warmth and comfort in every bite.