Photo by Dev Benjamin on Unsplash
Has your freezer ever been empty? A few weeks ago, I opened my freezer door and a package of chicken wings fell on my foot, beckoning to be thrown into the air fryer. From that moment, and with the looming hurricane season ahead, I decided it was time to use or lose what's in my freezer.
I've spent the majority of the month rotating through the meats and veggies found in the dark recesses, creating some relatively tasty meals in the process. I've had to live into the mantra "I have food at home" several times, and even though I've had a lot to work with stashed away, I've still had to buy perishables and some frozen foods along the way.
Some creations have included:
- BBQ air fryer chicken wings
- Breakfast sausage patties and crumbled sausage for wraps
- Grilled Burgers w/ onions
- Steaks
- My version of Chicken Parm by using what's in the fridge
- the thawing of butterbraids I bought from the last youth group fundraiser
- fruit smoothies
This week, I opted to use the beef shoulder roast I had tucked in the back corner. I became the recipient of this wonderful slab through a butcher's selection of Butcher Box. (Another great way to get quality meat cuts and some surprises- although, it might be slightly pricier than your local Walmart or Food Lion).
So, after googling what to make with this beauty, I decided upon a beef dip or otherwise known as a French Dip sandwich. My last beef dip was last January, I believe.
Anyway, this meal is incredibly easy to make! Thaw your beef in the fridge about a day or so before you plan to cook. The larger the selection, the longer it will take to thaw, of course.
If you prefer, you can brown the meat to create a nice crust before cooking it in the crockpot, but that isn't necessary if you are short on time.
This can be cooked in the crockpot/ slow cooker or in an instapot, and time will vary.
With your beef, include:
- Sliced Onions (1- 2 did it for me)
- Garlic (I opted for minced, but if you love peeling and dicing, then fresh might be for you)
- Spices such as salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, rosemary, & thyme.
- McCormick makes packets for Au Jus or Slow Cookers French Dip Seasoning mix.
- 1 cup of Water, or follow instructions on the packet.
Cook on low for 6–8 hours. Afterward, slice your beef, separate the Au jus for the dipping, and build your sandwiches!
To build your sandwich, the best hoagie rolls you can find are needed. Then your favorite cheese, although Provolone is recommended.
Toast your sandwiches in the oven/ toaster, and be on your way to a quick, easy dinner!
Pair with a salad and/ or other veggies for a complete meal.
What meals can you make with your freezer contents?
.png)
These are all great suggestions! Thanks for the inspiration. I have some ground beef that I need to use up this weekend.
ReplyDelete