The holiday season is a time that many people look forward to with great anticipation. It encompasses the months of October, November, and December, each bringing its own unique spirit and celebrations. Personally, I can’t help but feel that the autumn months have flown by at an accelerated pace this year. It almost feels as if we’ve jumped straight from summer to the holiday hustle without taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of fall. August, for example, is traditionally the month filled with carefree days, refreshing lemonade, and children joyfully returning to school after summer break. So why do we feel the need to rush headfirst into the busy season, neglecting the simple pleasures that summer offers?
I apologize for my minor rant, but I firmly believe in savoring each month for what it uniquely represents. Sure, August might seem like a “nothing month” on the surface, but it holds its own special charm, doesn't it? We should take the time to enjoy the present rather than being consumed by thoughts of what lies ahead. This is something I grapple with regularly, especially as I navigate the complexities of planning a wedding, establishing a career, and diligently saving for a house.
Now, moving on from my musings, let’s talk about October. This month is often associated with a sense of spookiness and the excitement of Halloween, which is just around the corner. Then comes November, a month that evokes the warm flavors of chestnuts and maple syrup, filled with gatherings centered around Thanksgiving feasts featuring turkey and all the trimmings. It serves as a preparatory month for the grand finale of the year, Christmas, which brings a wave of warmth and gratitude as we reflect on what we are thankful for. Finally, we arrive at December, the heart of the holiday season, where festive decorations fill our homes, holiday shopping is in full swing, and the aroma of seasonal treats wafts through the air, engaging all our senses. After three months of emotional highs and festive activities, how could we not experience the infamous January Blues? Thankfully, I have a delightful recipe that can help us warm our souls and bring comfort during those chilly winter days spent in cozy pajamas.
One random Thursday in January, I decided that it was high time to recreate the much-loved Winter Carnival French Dip Sliders. I have to admit, I didn’t follow the recipe to the letter due to some ingredient challenges; I had to leave out Worcestershire sauce and cooking sherry. Finding cooking sherry in Orlando proved to be quite the challenge. I even paid a visit to a liquor store to inquire about possible substitutes, but alas, my efforts were met with silence, akin to the sound of crickets chirping. If anyone has suggestions for alternatives to cooking sherry, I’m all ears! On the other hand, I discovered that Worcestershire sauce is widely available at Walmart, both under name brands and store brands. In the grand scheme of things, omitting these ingredients didn’t drastically impact the overall essence of the dish—or did it? I decided to pair the sliders with barbecue pop chips for a crunchy accompaniment, and for dessert, we indulged in some Mallomars that I snagged on sale. It turned out to be a flavor-filled lunch that left us satisfied.
Now, here’s an update for you: during my first attempt at making this recipe, I was unable to find cooking sherry or Worcestershire sauce. However, after relocating to Colorado, I found both ingredients with ease. Isn’t that amusing? Their presence certainly enhances the flavor
As for our ratings:
- My personal rating: 10/10. These sliders were truly delightful. I managed to prepare them in just 30 minutes, making them an excellent quick dinner option for busy families. The flavors were undeniably savory, and they didn’t carry the heavy richness that restaurant French Dip sandwiches often do, making them easy on the stomach. They paired remarkably well with the barbecue chips. I am definitely inclined to try this recipe again, as I’m curious to see if the addition of cooking sherry and Worcestershire sauce will elevate the flavor even further.
- Shayne’s rating: 10/10. The combination of roast beef, cheese, and Hawaiian rolls topped with caramelized onions was a winning formula that delighted my husband. He enjoyed the sliders so much that he requested I increase the recipe to yield 24 sandwiches instead of just 12. No critiques from him on this one!
In fact, the sliders were so enjoyable that Shayne and I devoured them all for lunch, each of us indulging in six sliders.
Now, let’s take a moment to discuss the financial aspect of this recipe. There are plenty of opportunities for money-saving swaps; you can use off-brand products and still achieve a delicious result. As a millennial—or simply someone who values saving money—this is always a priority. This recipe is perfect for those who need a quick meal option without the burden of excessive costs associated with takeout. I did my grocery shopping at Walmart for this particular trip, and here’s a breakdown of the costs:
- Great Value Pure Cane Sugar: $1.83
- Chopped Onions: $1.12
- College Inn 99% Fat Free Broth: $2.08
- Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter: $3.43
- Sam’s Choice Hawaiian Slider Buns: $2.50
- Walmart Deli Roast Beef Fresh Cuts: $8.22
- Worcestershire sauce (if purchased): $1.00
- Holland Sherry (if purchased): $2.18
The total for this recipe came to $22.36. That’s certainly cheaper than dining out or ordering takeout, wouldn’t you agree? The most expensive item on the list was the roast beef, while the cheapest were the Worcestershire sauce and frozen chopped onions.
When it comes to fresh cuts of meat and produce, preferences vary. Personally, I prefer fresh-cut meat for the added flavor, while I often choose frozen produce. Frozen items tend to have a longer shelf life, especially in humid climates where fresh produce can spoil quickly. Convenience also plays a significant role in my decisions.
To summarize the outcomes and recommendations: making these sliders was an excellent way to combat the January Blues. Not only did they warm my soul and fill our stomachs, but they also allowed me to save time and money. The comforting sandwiches reminded me of the joy of winter carnival foods, bringing a sense of nostalgia and happiness during the dreary winter months.
I’ve actually made these French Dip Sliders on two separate occasions: once for my housewarming party and again as a snack for a friend’s move-in celebration. They have become a welcomed favorite within my circle of friends, and I can confidently say that this recipe is sure to please anyone who tries it!
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