Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 3–4 lbs beef chuck roast

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)

• ¼ cup soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce)

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (adds depth)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 bay leaves

• 6 hoagie rolls or French rolls

• 6 slices provolone, Swiss, or mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef

   • Season chuck roast lightly with salt and pepper.

   • Place in slow cooker along with sliced onion and garlic.

2. Make the Broth

   • In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce (or Worcestershire), balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper.

   • Pour mixture over the roast. Add bay leaves.

3. Slow Cook

   • Cover and cook on low 7–8 hours (or high 4–5 hours), until beef is very tender and shreds easily.

4. Shred & Strain

   • Remove roast and shred with two forks.

   • Strain cooking liquid and skim excess fat. Reserve as au jus for dipping.

5. Assemble Sandwiches

   • Toast hoagie rolls lightly.

   • Pile shredded beef on rolls, top with a slice of cheese, and place under broiler until cheese melts.

6. Serve

   • Ladle hot au jus into small bowls for dipping.

   • Serve immediately.