ROAST BEEF DIPPERS

If you are looking for a quick and easy winter lunch, look no further. The sauce helps heat the meat, then doubles as a dip.

Dipping sauce

    1 1/4 cups water
    2 dried bay leaves
    1 1/4 teaspoons beef base
    1 teaspoon Italian tomato paste
    1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
    1/4 teaspoon minced dried onion
    1/8 teaspoon dried thyme

    Thinly sliced roast beef
    1 loaf French bread
    Butter

1.  In a 2-quart saucepan, heat the water, bay leaves, beef base,
     tomato paste, parsley, onion and thyme. Simmer for 10
     minutes.

2.  Heat the slices of roast beef in the hot sauce for 1 minute. Cut
     the bread in half horizontally to make 1 large sandwich.

3.  Butter bread halves. Layer the hot beef on one half, then top
     with the other bread half.

4.  Slice into 2-inch sandwiches, then slice each sandwich
     diagonally. The point makes it easier to dip the sandwich.
     Serve the hot dipping sauce in small bowls on each plate.

     Makes 4 servings