Au Jus

Au Jus, a French term meaning “with juice,” is a simple yet incredibly flavorful sauce that complements various dishes, especially when served with roast meats like beef or lamb. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create a rich and savory Au Jus sauce that’s perfect for enhancing the flavor of your favorite meals. For a unique twist, consider using Better Than Bouillon No Beef Base for an even more robust flavor. Let’s dive into the world of Au Jus!

Yields: 1 1/2 cups

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tablespoon butter or vegan margarine, such as Earth Balance
• 1 shallot, minced
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 2 cups faux-beef stock or Pressure Cooker Vegetable Stock (see Chapter 5)
• 1 cup red wine
• 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Start by adding the butter to the pressure cooker. Sauté the minced shallot over medium-high heat until it turns a lovely golden brown color.
2. Stir in the flour to create a roux. The roux will help thicken the sauce and provide a smooth texture.
3. Add the faux-beef stock (or Pressure Cooker Vegetable Stock for a vegetarian option), red wine, liquid smoke, salt, and pepper to the roux. These ingredients will infuse the sauce with depth and flavor.
4. Lock the pressure cooker lid into place and bring it to high pressure. Once the desired pressure is achieved, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for approximately 5 minutes. This cooking method ensures the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Allow the pressure to release naturally. Once the sauce is done cooking under pressure, remove the lid and continue to simmer the sauce over low heat. Let it simmer until it reduces by half, concentrating the flavors and creating a rich and savory Au Jus sauce.

USES:

Your homemade Au Jus sauce is a flavorful addition to your culinary arsenal. Here are some delightful ways to use it:

• Roast Meats: Au Jus sauce is traditionally served with roast meats like beef, lamb, or pork. Drizzle it over slices of roast beef for a classic and delectable pairing. It enhances the meat’s natural flavors and adds moisture.
• French Dip Sandwich: Create a mouthwatering French dip sandwich by using Au Jus as a dipping sauce. Pile thinly sliced roast beef (or your preferred protein) onto a crusty roll, and serve with a side of warm Au Jus for dipping.
• Burgers: Elevate your burgers by adding a touch of Au Jus sauce. Pour it over a juicy patty for a rich and savory twist. Top with caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor.
• Steak: Pour Au Jus sauce over your cooked steak for a luxurious and savory finish. It’s an excellent complement to grilled or pan-seared cuts.
• Prime Rib: Au Jus is a classic accompaniment for prime rib. Serve it alongside this tender and flavorful roast to enhance its taste.
• Meatloaf: Transform your meatloaf into a gourmet dish by drizzling Au Jus sauce over slices or individual servings. It adds moisture and elevates the dish’s overall flavor profile.
• Mashed Potatoes: Use Au Jus sauce as a rich and savory gravy for mashed potatoes. The combination of creamy potatoes and flavorful sauce is a match made in comfort food heaven.
• Dipping for Appetizers: Au Jus sauce can be a delightful dipping sauce for appetizers like onion rings, mozzarella sticks, or even fried mushrooms. It adds a savory kick to these crunchy snacks.
• Beefy Pasta: Incorporate Au Jus into pasta dishes for a unique twist. Toss it with cooked pasta, thinly sliced beef, and sautéed vegetables for a hearty and flavorful meal.
• Sautéed Vegetables: For a vegetarian option, drizzle Au Jus sauce over sautéed or roasted vegetables like mushrooms, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. It adds a savory depth that complements the earthy flavors.
• Rice Bowls: Enhance rice bowls or grain-based dishes by spooning Au Jus sauce over them. It can bring a burst of umami flavor to a variety of grain and protein combinations.

With its rich and savory profile, Au Jus sauce is a versatile condiment that elevates a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re serving it with meats, sandwiches, or even vegetarian options, this sauce adds depth and flavor to your culinary creations. Enjoy experimenting with its delicious uses!

Now that your Au Jus sauce is ready, you have a delectable accompaniment that’s perfect for drizzling over roast meats or any dish in need of a burst of savory goodness. Enjoy the depth and richness that this sauce adds to your culinary creations!