Football Heroes

Football Heroes Recipe from France - Beef, Onions, and Red Peppers in Soy Sauce and Tomato Paste

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 6-9 hours | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Football Heroes is a delicious and hearty sandwich recipe that is perfect for game day or any casual gathering. This recipe features tender beef stew meat cooked in a savory broth, served on French rolls with melted cheese and your favorite toppings.

History

Football Heroes is a popular dish that originated in the United States, particularly in the Midwest. It is often served at football tailgates, parties, and other casual events where hearty and satisfying food is desired.

Ingredients

3 to 4 lb (1.81 kg) beef for stew, cut into 1- to 1.5 inch pieces
2 medium sweet onions, cut into 0.5 inch wedges
2 red peppers, cut into 1 inch-wide strips
1 can (10.5 oz (298 g)) beef consommé
0.33 cup soy sauce
0.25 cup tomato paste
6 cloves garlic, minced
8 to 10 French rolls

Toppings

2 cup (8 oz (227 g)) cheddar jack shredded cheese or cheddar and monterey jack with tomato and jalapeno pepper shredded cheese
pepperoncini
bell pepper rings, assorted

How to prepare

Place onions in a 4.5- to 5.5 qt (5.20-liter) slow cooker; top with beef for stew, then pepper slices.
Combine consommé, soy sauce, tomato paste, and garlic; add to the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on high for 6 to 7 hours or on low for 8 to 9 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender (do not stir during cooking).
Serve in rolls with cheeses and other desired toppings.

Cook's Tip

The beef mixture can be kept hot on low for up to 2 hours.

Variations

Try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack.
Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
Use hoagie rolls or ciabatta bread instead of French rolls for a different twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For best results, use beef stew meat that is well-marbled and cut into uniform pieces.

- Slow cooking the beef in a flavorful broth ensures that it becomes tender and juicy.

- Be sure to top the sandwiches with plenty of cheese and your favorite toppings for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Football Heroes with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or chips for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the beef in a crockpot allows the meat to become tender and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken or pork stew meat instead of beef for a different variation.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Football Heroes on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Football Heroes with a cold beer or your favorite soda for a classic game day meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Football Heroes contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Football Heroes contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Football Heroes contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Football Heroes contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Football Heroes is a good source of iron, vitamin C, and other essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Football Heroes is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Football Heroes is a delicious and satisfying sandwich recipe that is perfect for feeding a crowd. With tender beef, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Football Heroes. It was a crisp fall day, just like today, when I first learned how to make these delicious treats. I had just finished watching my grandson's football game, and I was feeling inspired to create something special for the team to enjoy after their hard-fought victory.

As I made my way back to my car, I spotted a small group of parents gathered around a table, sharing recipes and stories. Curious, I approached them and struck up a conversation with a kind woman named Mrs. Johnson. She was known for her amazing baked goods, and she graciously offered to share one of her favorite recipes with me.

Mrs. Johnson explained that Football Heroes were a tradition in her family, a sweet and savory snack that was perfect for game days. She handed me a handwritten recipe card, complete with detailed instructions and helpful tips. I was so grateful for her generosity and couldn't wait to try making them myself.

When I got home, I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in my kitchen. The recipe called for a simple dough made with flour, butter, sugar, and a touch of cinnamon. I mixed everything together until it formed a smooth, pliable dough, then rolled it out into a thin sheet.

Next, I carefully cut the dough into small rectangles and placed a generous dollop of apple pie filling in the center of each one. I folded the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal it shut, and then brushed each Football Hero with a mixture of egg wash and cinnamon sugar.

As I popped the tray into the oven, the sweet aroma of cinnamon and apples filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I couldn't wait to see how they turned out.

When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the golden brown Football Heroes out of the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. They looked perfect, with a light, flaky crust and a gooey, delicious filling peeking out from the edges. I couldn't resist taking a bite right away, and I was instantly transported back to that chilly football field, cheering on my grandson and his teammates.

I packaged up a few of the Football Heroes in a cute tin and brought them to the next game. The boys devoured them in minutes, declaring them the best post-game snack they had ever tasted. I was beaming with pride, knowing that I had found a new favorite recipe to add to my collection.

Over the years, I have made Football Heroes for countless football games, family gatherings, and special occasions. Each time, they are met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always make sure to credit Mrs. Johnson for introducing me to this wonderful treat, and I am grateful for the chance encounter that led me to discover it.

As I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day, I can't help but smile at the memories it brings back. The camaraderie of the football field, the warmth of a homemade treat, and the joy of sharing something special with loved ones – all of these things make the recipe for Football Heroes truly unforgettable. And I am grateful for the opportunity to pass it on to future generations, just as Mrs. Johnson did for me.