Beef au Jus is a classic dish that elevates any meal with its rich and savory flavor. The term “au jus” means “with juice,” referring to the flavorful sauce made from the beef’s drippings. Perfect as a dipping sauce for roast beef sandwiches or as a side to your favorite cuts of meat, this recipe is a must-try for meat lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of beef drippings, aromatic herbs, and seasonings creates a deeply flavorful sauce.
- Versatile Use: Serve it with sandwiches, roasts, or even mashed potatoes for an added layer of deliciousness.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for any cook.
- Restaurant Quality: Enjoy the gourmet taste of a high-end restaurant in the comfort of your home.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Beef drippings or beef broth
- Unsalted butter
- All-purpose flour
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
- Salt and black pepper
- Water or additional beef broth
Directions
- Collect Beef Drippings: If using drippings from roasted beef, strain them to remove any solids. Alternatively, use high-quality beef broth as a base.
- Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Create a Roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden brown, forming a roux.
- Add Liquid: Gradually pour in the beef drippings or broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Season and Flavor: Add Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Strain: If desired, strain the au jus to remove any herbs or garlic for a smooth sauce.
- Serve: Serve hot alongside your favorite beef dishes or as a dipping sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 4 servings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Herb Choices: Swap thyme for oregano or parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Wine Addition: Add a splash of red wine for a more robust taste.
- Garlic-Free: Skip the garlic for a milder sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux.
- Vegetarian: Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly au jus.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow the au jus to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency.
FAQs
What is au jus made of?
Au jus is typically made from beef drippings, butter, flour, and seasonings like garlic and herbs.
Can I make au jus without beef drippings?
Yes, you can use high-quality beef broth or stock as an alternative.
What is the difference between au jus and gravy?
Au jus is thinner and lighter than gravy, with a more concentrated flavor.
Can I freeze au jus?
Yes, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
How do I thicken au jus?
You can whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it, if desired.
Is au jus gluten-free?
Traditional recipes are not, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
Can I add onions to my au jus?
Yes, sautéed onions can add sweetness and depth to the flavor.
What dishes pair well with au jus?
It complements roast beef, French dip sandwiches, mashed potatoes, and prime rib perfectly.
How can I enhance the flavor of my au jus?
Add a splash of red wine or a dash of soy sauce for extra depth.
Can I make au jus ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to two days in advance and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Beef au Jus is a flavorful and versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re elevating a weeknight dinner or preparing a holiday feast, this rich and savory sauce is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and endless variations, it’s a recipe worth mastering. Try it today and bring restaurant-quality flavor to your table!
PrintBeef au Jus
Beef au Jus is a classic French sauce made from the natural juices of roasted beef, often served alongside dishes like prime rib or French dip sandwiches to enhance their flavor.
Ingredients
- Beef Drippings or Butter: 2 tablespoons (use beef drippings if available for richer flavor)
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 tablespoon (optional, for slight thickening)
- Beef Broth: 2 cups, preferably low-sodium
- Red Wine: 1/4 cup (optional, adds depth of flavor)
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Onion Powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the beef drippings or butter.
- If using flour for a slightly thicker au jus, sprinkle it into the pan and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add Liquids:
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add the red wine (if using) and Worcestershire sauce, continuing to whisk.
- Season:
- Stir in the garlic powder and onion powder.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Simmer:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Strain and Serve:
- For a smooth consistency, strain the au jus through a fine-mesh sieve into a serving bowl.
- Serve hot alongside your beef dish, such as prime rib or French dip sandwiches.
Notes
- No Drippings? If beef drippings aren’t available, butter serves as a suitable substitute.
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use red wine, you can replace it with additional beef broth.
- Consistency: Traditional au jus is meant to be a thin, flavorful sauce. The optional flour provides a slight thickness but should not make it as thick as gravy.