National French Dip Day, celebrated on November 12th, is dedicated to one of America’s most beloved sandwiches: the French dip. Known for its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, the French dip sandwich has become a staple on menus nationwide. Whether you enjoy it with extra beef, a flavorful au jus dip, or paired with crispy fries, National French Dip Day is the perfect occasion to savor this iconic dish and learn more about its history.
The History of the French Dip Sandwich
The French dip sandwich is said to have been invented in Los Angeles in the early 20th century. Its origins are somewhat disputed, but most accounts trace it back to two rival eateries: Philippe the Original and Cole’s. Both claim to have created the sandwich, and the debate continues to this day.
According to Philippe’s, the French dip was invented when a chef accidentally dropped a roll of French bread into a pot of hot beef drippings. The customer, who had already ordered the sandwich, asked for the bread to be dipped in the beef drippings to enhance the flavor, and thus, the French dip was born. On the other hand, Cole also claims to have served the first French dip sandwich, with a slightly different backstory involving French immigrants and their preference for dipping their sandwiches in gravy.
Regardless of which restaurant truly created the sandwich, the French dip quickly gained popularity and spread across the United States, becoming a favorite among sandwich lovers. Today, the French dip is a classic comfort food that many people enjoy in various forms.
Why National French Dip Day Matters
National French Dip Day is more than just a celebration of a tasty sandwich—it’s an opportunity to honor the culinary history behind this dish and reflect on the evolution of American comfort food. Here are some reasons why National French Dip Day is so significant:
- Celebrating a Classic American Sandwich: The French dip is a quintessential American sandwich that has stood the test of time. Its combination of tender beef, savory au jus, and crusty bread offers a simple yet satisfying meal that appeals to a wide variety of tastes. National French Dip Day allows us to appreciate this comfort food staple and its role in American culinary culture.
- Honoring Sandwich Heritage: The French dip is part of a rich sandwich tradition that has become ingrained in American food culture. From the BLT to the grilled cheese, sandwiches are versatile, easy-to-make meals that have been customized and adapted in countless ways. National French Dip Day serves as a reminder of how the humble sandwich has evolved into an iconic and beloved dish.
- Encouraging Culinary Exploration: French dip sandwiches have inspired many variations, from the type of bread used to the choice of meat. While beef is the most common filling, you can find versions with turkey, roast pork, or even vegetarian alternatives. The versatility of the French dip encourages culinary creativity and exploration, making it a great dish for experimenting with new flavors and ingredients.
- Promoting Local Diners and Restaurants: Many local diners and sandwich shops serve their own versions of the French dip, and National French Dip Day provides an opportunity to support these businesses. Whether it’s a small-town café or a trendy urban eatery, local restaurants are the heart of the French dip tradition. Celebrating this day by visiting a local restaurant or trying a new version of the sandwich helps support the food industry and keeps the tradition alive.
- Sharing Comfort Food with Loved Ones: The French dip sandwich is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or as a snack, it brings people together over a satisfying meal. National French Dip Day is an opportunity to share this iconic sandwich with loved ones and create new food memories.
How to Celebrate National French Dip Day
There are many fun and delicious ways to celebrate National French Dip Day. Here are some ideas for how you can enjoy this iconic sandwich:
Learn About the History of the French Dip: On National French Dip Day, take the time to learn more about the sandwich’s history, origins, and impact on American food culture. You can research its ties to Los Angeles, its evolution over the years, and its role in the comfort food movement. Understanding the history behind the sandwich makes enjoying it even more special.
Make Your Own French Dip Sandwich: Celebrate National French Dip Day by making your own version of the sandwich at home. You can use roast beef, turkey, or vegetarian alternatives and choose your favorite type of bread, such as French rolls, baguettes, or hoagie buns. Don’t forget to serve the sandwich with a side of au jus for dipping, and consider adding your favorite toppings like cheese, onions, or pickles.
Visit a Local Restaurant: If you prefer not to cook, head to a local diner, sandwich shop, or restaurant that serves French dip sandwiches. Many eateries offer their own spin on the classic, with unique fillings, dipping sauces, and side dishes. Visiting a local establishment supports small businesses and allows you to enjoy a professionally made French dip sandwich.
Host a French Dip Sandwich Tasting: If you like French dip sandwiches, consider hosting a tasting event with friends and family. Gather different versions of the sandwich, whether from local restaurants or homemade creations, and compare flavors, fillings, and dipping sauces. This is a fun way to explore the many variations of the French dip and discover your favorite.
Experiment with Unique Dips: While au jus is the traditional dipping sauce for a French dip sandwich, you can experiment with other sauces to add new flavors. Try horseradish sauce, BBQ sauce, spicy mustard, or cheese sauce for a creative twist on the classic. National French Dip Day is a great excuse to experiment with different dipping sauces and find your perfect combination.
Share Your French Dip Moments on Social Media: Join the celebration by sharing your French dip creations on social media. Post photos of your homemade sandwich or the French dip you enjoyed at a local restaurant. Use hashtags like #NationalFrenchDipDay and #FrenchDipSandwich to connect with fellow foodies and spread the love for this iconic sandwich.
#HASHTAGS
#NationalFrenchDipDay
National French Dip Day is celebrated annually on November 12th
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | November 12 | Saturday |
| 2023 | November 12 | Sunday |
| 2024 | November 12 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | November 12 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | November 12 | Thursday |
| 2027 | November 12 | Friday |
| 2028 | November 12 | Sunday |
| 2029 | November 12 | Monday |
| 2030 | November 12 | Tuesday |
| 2031 | November 12 | Wednesday |
| 2032 | November 12 | Friday |
| 2033 | November 12 | Saturday |
| 2034 | November 12 | Sunday |
| 2035 | November 12 | Monday |
