12 Best Roast Beef Sandwich Condiments for Flavor-Packed Bites
Roast beef sandwiches are elevated by condiments like mayo for moisture, mustard for tang, BBQ sauce for flavor variety, horseradish for a pungent kick, and sour cream or cream cheese for creaminess.
Nobody wants to eat just roast beef between two slices of bread and nothing else. The trick is finding the right roast beef sandwich condiments that will take it to the next level to more of a deli roast beef sandwich (and even further if you have flavorful beef and add some foods too or cheese). Some of these condiments work better when used on toasted bread. What condiment goes with roast beef?
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1. Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise, a dairy-free condiment, adds moisture to roast beef sandwiches. Though high in saturated fat and cholesterol, low-fat options are available. Spread inside bread slices, it enhances leftover roast beef sandwiches. Always check labels for lactose intolerance concerns.
2. Mustard
Mustard, made from ground mustard seeds, vinegar, and water, is a classic condiment for roast beef sandwiches. Yellow mustard, which you may be familiar with from putting it on hot dogs, is the most common, but certainly not the only variety available. Honey mustard, as the name implies, combines honey as an ingredient.
Spicy brown mustard is made with brown mustard seeds and tends to have more heat than regular mustard. Dijon mustard substitutes the juice of unripe grapes for vinegar, giving it a more pungent flavor. Squirt the mustard on top of the meat you are using in your sandwich.
3. Barbecue Sauce
Barbecue sauce makes a wonderful condiment for roast beef because there are so many kinds, ranging from the tomato-ey variety that comes from Texas to the mustard-based sauce that comes from the Carolinas. You should use barbecue sauce sparingly lest it flows out of your sandwich and onto your shirt.
4. Horseradish
Horseradish, renowned for its pungent flavor, is often considered one of the best condiments for roast beef sandwiches. In the US, it’s frequently mixed with mayo, while in Denmark, it’s blended with whipping cream for open-faced sandwiches. Its potency means it should be used sparingly.
This classic condiment perfectly complements the rich taste of roast beef, adding a zesty kick without overpowering the meat. Its tanginess also balances the palate, cutting through the beef’s richness. Overall, horseradish is a versatile and traditional addition that enhances the flavor of most roast beef sandwiches
5. Sour Cream
Spread sour cream on roast beef sandwiches for a cool contrast. Sour cream, rich in fat, carbs, protein, vitamin A, and B12, adds a distinct flavor. It’s commonly used to balance heat in dishes like chili or soup. Spread evenly on meat or inside bread for a tasty sandwich addition.
6. Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is a form of cheese that is made from milk and cream, resulting in a mild, but fatty substance that nevertheless has some micronutrients. People often spread cream cheese on toast or a bagel in place of butter. Cream cheese is considered slightly healthier than butter because of its lower fat content and because less of it is needed to cover the inside of a slice of bread in a sandwich. At the store, cream cheese comes either in bars or tubs, the latter of which contains a variety of sweet and savory flavorings.
7. Fresh Italian Herbs
Italian herbs, which you can buy fresh at some supermarkets or even grow yourself, can be a substitute for lettuce on any salad. Try fresh basil leaves, fresh oregano, and rosemary leaves plucked from the woody stems. Alternatively, you can mix Italian herbs in sour cream to give it a little added flavor or combine it with olive oil to make it into a dipping sauce.
8. Dry Italian Spices
Dry Italian spices work pretty well too, when mixed in with a cream or olive oil sauce, just like their fresh varieties. One can also simmer a tomato sauce with the spices along with powdered garlic and onions to make a quick marinara sauce that can be used in a roast beef sandwich much as they are used in a meatball sub.
9. Worcestershire Sauce
Worcestershire sauce, originating from Worcester, UK, contains anchovies, vinegar, molasses, onions, and garlic. Commonly used in meat dishes and marinades, it’s reminiscent of ancient Roman garum. Lea and Perrins is a well-known brand. It adds depth and complexity to roast beef sandwiches, enhancing their flavor.
10. Hot Sauce
Hot sauce comes in a stunning variety, but all of it uses some kind of chili pepper as a base. Additional ingredients can be as simple as salt and vinegar, but some varieties use fruits and vegetables to give added flavor. The process of creating hot sauce can be as simple as pureeing or cooking or a combination of both. Check hot sauce labels for heat levels; jalapenos are common, but some use hotter peppers like habaneros or ghost peppers. Tabasco, made with cayenne peppers, is a popular option. Use sparingly based on heat tolerance or pair with cooling condiments like sour cream or yogurt.
11. Salsa
Salsa, now surpassing ketchup in popularity, offers a flavorful option for roast beef sandwiches. Made with tomatoes, peppers, and onions, it’s versatile. Salsa Verde, with tomatillos, is common in Tex-Mex cuisine and adds a tangy twist to sandwiches. Its popularity extends to hamburgers as well.
12. Tapenade
Tapenade is a concoction that combines black olives, capers, and anchovies to make either a condiment or a spread. The ingredients are either chopped, crushed, or blended and then added to olive oil to make a thick paste. Some varieties add garlic, lemon juice, or even brandy to add extra flavor. Tapenade is used in both French and Louisiana cooking in various dishes. Dollop some on top of the roast beef or use it as a spread for the bread.
13. Hummus
Hummus, a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, offers a nutritious option for roast beef sandwiches. Made with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, it’s rich in fiber and vitamins. Varieties may include red pepper or other spices. Widely available in US supermarkets, it serves as a healthy alternative to traditional spreads like cream cheese or butter.
Pairing Tips
Creating the perfect roast beef sandwich involves more than just slapping some condiments together. Here are some expert tips to help you pair condiments like a pro:
- Balance Flavors: Experiment with a combination of sweet, tangy, spicy, and savory condiments to find the perfect balance of flavors. For example, pair the richness of mayonnaise with the tanginess of mustard or the heat of horseradish.
- Consider Texture: Think about the texture of your condiments and how they complement the texture of the roast beef. Creamy condiments like sour cream or cream cheese can add a smooth contrast to the meat, while crunchy options like pickles or crispy onions can provide a satisfying crunch.
- Layer Wisely: Don’t just pile all your condiments on at once. Layer them strategically to ensure each one shines through. Start with a base of mayonnaise or mustard on the bread, then add your meat, followed by complementary toppings like sliced cheese, lettuce, or tomato, and finally, finish with a zesty sauce or spread.
- Consider Cultural Pairings: Explore condiments from different cuisines to add an extra dimension of flavor to your sandwich. For example, try pairing roast beef with chimichurri sauce for a South American twist, or experiment with Asian-inspired flavors like wasabi mayo or teriyaki sauce.
- Customize to Taste: Ultimately, the best condiment pairings are the ones that suit your personal preferences. Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize your sandwich with unique flavor combinations that appeal to your taste buds.
By following these pairing tips, you can elevate your roast beef sandwich game and create mouthwatering combinations that are sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best condiments for roast beef sandwich?
The best condiments for a roast beef sandwich include horseradish sauce, mustard, mayo, Worcestershire sauce, and chimichurri. Each of these condiments adds its own unique flavor profile, enhancing the taste of the beef without overpowering it.
What sauce goes with roast beef sandwich?
When it comes to selecting the ideal sauce for a roast beef sandwich, horseradish sauce stands out as the top choice. Its bold flavor and creamy consistency elevate the taste of the beef, creating a delicious and satisfying combination.
What are some roast beef sandwich toppings?
To add extra flavor and texture to your roast beef sandwich, consider topping it with ingredients like crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, thinly sliced onion, tangy pickles, and your favorite cheese. These toppings complement the rich taste of the beef and add a refreshing crunch to each bite.
What is the best dressing for a roast beef sandwich?
When it comes to dressing up a roast beef sandwich, horseradish sauce is undoubtedly the best choice. Its creamy texture and robust flavor enhance the overall taste experience, making it a delicious addition to any sandwich.
What are some roast beef sandwich ideas?
Elevate your roast beef sandwich game with creative toppings and flavor combinations. Consider adding caramelized onions for a touch of sweetness, peppery arugula for freshness, or creamy avocado slices for richness. Experiment with different sauces and condiments to customize your sandwich to your liking.
Does Arby’s offer roast beef sandwiches?
Yes, Arby’s menu includes a variety of roast beef sandwiches, featuring thinly sliced, oven-roasted beef piled high on a toasted bun. You can enjoy these sandwiches with classic accompaniments like horseradish sauce or Arby’s signature sauces for a delicious and satisfying meal.
