Au Jus is a flavorful and savory sauce often served with beef. One serving of Au Jus (85 g) contains roughly 50 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie addition to your meal.
In addition to being a tasty addition to your meal, Au Jus also offers some nutritional benefits. It is high in sodium and protein and contains a variety of vitamins and minerals.
In this article, we'll explore the calorie and nutritional content of Au Jus, its benefits, and how to use it in your cooking.
What is Au Jus?
Au Jus is a French term that translates to 'with juice'. It is a thin, flavorful sauce made from the meat drippings left over after cooking beef. It is typically served as a dipping sauce for beef dishes or used as a base for gravies and soups. Au Jus is simple to make and can add a rich depth of flavor to a variety of dishes.
Calories in Au Jus
One serving of Au Jus (85 g) contains roughly 50 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie addition to your meal, especially when compared to other sauces like gravy.
In addition to being low in calories, Au Jus is also high in sodium and protein, which can help to satisfy hunger and keep you feeling full for longer. One serving of Au Jus contains roughly 800mg of sodium and 6g of protein.
Vitamins and Minerals
Au Jus also contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy blood cells, supporting your immune system, and facilitating brain function.
Benefits of Au Jus
Aside from its nutritional benefits, Au Jus can add a rich depth of flavor to a variety of dishes. It is particularly well-suited to beef dishes and can be used as a dipping sauce or base for gravies and soups. The high sodium content in Au Jus can also make it a good option for athletes and active individuals who need to replace lost electrolytes.
How to Use Au Jus
Au Jus can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the flavor and texture of your dishes. Some common uses include:
- As a dipping sauce for beef dishes
- As a base for gravies and soups
- As a marinade for beef
- As a flavoring agent for roasted vegetables
Au Jus Recipe Ideas
If you're looking for inspiration on how to use Au Jus in your cooking, here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
- French Dip Sandwiches
- Beef Stew
- Roast Beef with Au Jus Gravy
- Grilled Steak with Au Jus Sauce
Au Jus vs Gravy: What's the Difference?
While Au Jus and gravy are both flavorful sauces used to enhance the taste of meat dishes, there are some key differences between the two. Here are a few things to keep in mind when deciding between Au Jus and gravy:
- Gravy is thicker and creamier than Au Jus
- Au Jus is made from meat drippings, while gravy is typically made from flour, butter, and broth
- Gravy is often used as a standalone sauce, while Au Jus is typically used as a dipping sauce or base for other sauces and soups
Health Concerns with Au Jus
While Au Jus can be a flavorful addition to your meal, it is important to keep in mind its high sodium content. Consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure, which can increase your risk for heart disease and stroke. It is important to use Au Jus in moderation and pair it with other low-sodium foods.
Safe Storage and Consumption
To ensure the safety and freshness of your Au Jus, it is important to store it properly. You should refrigerate or freeze Au Jus within 2 hours of cooking and use it within 3-4 days if refrigerated or 3-4 months if frozen. When reheating Au Jus, make sure it is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any harmful bacteria.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Au Jus
1. What exactly is Au Jus?
Au Jus is a French term meaning 'with juice.' It refers to a thin and flavorful sauce made by reducing meat juices, often served as a dip for roasted or grilled meats like beef, pork or lamb.
2. Is Au Jus healthy?
Since Au Jus is made from meat drippings, it can contain a lot of fat and sodium. However, most of the calories in Au Jus come from protein, which can be beneficial for a balanced diet. It's recommended to use Au Jus in moderation as a condiment rather than a main dish.
3. How do you make Au Jus?
To make Au Jus, first remove the meat from the roasting pan and set it aside to rest. Pour the drippings into a saucepan and add beef broth, wine, and seasonings like garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. Cook the mixture over medium-high heat until it simmers, then reduce the heat and let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. What dishes are commonly served with Au Jus?
Au Jus is commonly served with roasted or grilled meats like prime rib, roast beef, beef tenderloin, and steak. It's also delicious with roasted or grilled vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers.
5. Can you buy Au Jus in stores?
Au Jus can be found in grocery stores in the form of instant mixes, canned or bottled sauces. It's also available in powdered form or as a concentrate that can be diluted with water or broth.