If you’re a fan of Arby’s roast beef sandwiches, you may have heard the urban legend that their meat isn’t actually beef at all.
According to the rumor, Arby’s roast beef is made from gels, liquids, or pastes that are formed into a meat-shaped lump and then roasted.
But is there any truth to this story?
We did some digging to find out the real story behind Arby’s roast beef.
In this article, we’ll explore the origins of this urban legend and uncover the truth about what goes into Arby’s signature sandwiches.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to sink your teeth into some juicy information about one of America’s favorite fast food chains.
Does Arby’s Roast Beef Come In A Paste?
Let’s start by addressing the rumor head-on: No, Arby’s roast beef does not come in a paste.
This urban legend has been circulating for years, but it simply isn’t true. Arby’s Quality Assurance has confirmed that their roast beef is made entirely of beef and a self-basting solution that contains just enough water to keep the product juicy throughout their 3-hour roasting process.
So where did this rumor come from?
It’s unclear exactly how this urban legend started, but it’s likely that it was fueled by misconceptions about how fast food is made. Many people assume that fast food chains use low-quality ingredients and questionable cooking methods, which can lead to rumors like this one.
However, Arby’s has always prided itself on using high-quality ingredients and preparing their food in a way that preserves its flavor and texture.
The Origins Of The Arby’s Roast Beef Paste Rumor
Despite Arby’s assurances that their roast beef is made of real beef, the rumor that it is actually a paste made from gels, liquids, or pastes has persisted for years. The origins of this rumor are unclear, but it’s possible that it was started by someone who misunderstood the process of making roast beef.
It’s true that Arby’s roast beef is shipped to franchises in an air-tight bag, but this is simply to keep it fresh. In the past, the roast beef was pre-cooked before being shipped, but now it is cooked in the bag at the franchise. This change in process may have contributed to the misconception that the roast beef is actually a paste.
Additionally, the texture of Arby’s roast beef may be different from what some people expect from traditional sliced roast beef. Because of the self-basting solution used during the roasting process, the meat may have a slightly softer texture than what some people are used to. This could also contribute to the idea that it is a paste or gel-like substance.
Despite these misconceptions, there is no evidence to support the claim that Arby’s roast beef is anything other than real beef. The company takes pride in their high-quality ingredients and preparation methods, and their Quality Assurance team has confirmed that their roast beef is made entirely of beef and a self-basting solution.
What Actually Goes Into Arby’s Roast Beef?
Arby’s roast beef is made from 100% USDA-inspected beef that is slow-roasted in its own juices. This unique cooking process gives the roast beef its signature flavor and tenderness that sets it apart from other fast food chains.
The roast beef arrives at the restaurant pre-packaged in a self-basting solution, which is a gelatinized broth that contains just enough water to keep the product moist throughout the shipping, roasting, and slicing process. The self-basting solution is not a paste, gel, or liquid as some rumors suggest.
Once the roast beef arrives at the restaurant, it is cooked in the oven for three hours and sliced to order. This ensures that each sandwich is made fresh and with the highest quality ingredients.
It’s important to note that while Arby’s roast beef is made from real beef, it is still considered ultra-processed. This means that it has been heavily modified from its original form and may contain additives and preservatives.
While Arby’s does offer some healthier options like salads, their menu items are generally high in sodium and should be consumed in moderation. It’s always a good idea to balance out your diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to ensure you’re getting all the nutrients your body needs.
The Process Of Making Arby’s Roast Beef
Now that we’ve cleared up the myth, let’s take a closer look at how Arby’s roast beef is actually made.
The process begins with high-quality cuts of beef that are trimmed and marinated in a blend of seasonings. The beef is then placed in a self-basting solution that contains water, salt, and sodium phosphates. This solution helps to keep the meat tender and juicy throughout the roasting process.
The beef is then slow-roasted for three hours until it reaches the perfect level of tenderness. Once it’s fully cooked, the roast beef is removed from the oven and allowed to cool before being sliced and served.
It’s worth noting that Arby’s has changed their cooking process over the years. In the past, the roast beef was shipped to franchises pre-cooked and unsliced. However, now it’s cooked in the bag at each franchise location.
To replicate the texture of Arby’s roast beef at home, it’s important to heat the meat properly. While a microwave or skillet might seem like an obvious choice, they can actually cause the beef to become rubbery or crispy. Instead, dunking slices of roast beef in hot water for about 10 seconds can help to warm it up without altering its texture.
What Makes Arby’s Roast Beef So Delicious?
Arby’s roast beef is known for its delicious flavor and juicy texture. So, what makes it so tasty?
Firstly, Arby’s uses high-quality beef in their roast beef sandwiches. The beef is shipped to the franchise unsliced and in an air-tight bag to keep it fresh. This ensures that the meat is of the highest quality and retains its natural flavor.
Secondly, Arby’s uses a self-basting solution during the roasting process that contains just enough water to keep the beef juicy. This solution also contains a blend of spices and seasonings that enhance the flavor of the meat.
But it’s not just the quality of the ingredients that makes Arby’s roast beef so delicious. Arby’s also offers a variety of sauces that perfectly complement the flavor of the beef. The zesty and tangy Arby’s Sauce, made with tomato, garlic, spices, and vinegar, adds a unique barbecue vibe to the sandwich. And for those who like a little kick, Arby’s Horsey Sauce, made with eggs, mustard, spices, and horseradish, is creamy and tangy with just the right amount of heat.
Debunking The Arby’s Roast Beef Paste Myth: The Truth Revealed
To put it simply, there is no truth to the claim that Arby’s roast beef is made from gels, liquids, or pastes. In fact, the roast beef is shipped to the franchise unsliced in an air-tight bag to keep it fresh. It is then cooked in the bag at the franchise instead of being pre-cooked.
Arby’s Quality Assurance has also confirmed that their roast beef does not arrive as a paste, gel, or liquid. The cynics may argue that they would say that, but this has been confirmed independently by Arby’s employees who have worked both behind the counter and in the kitchen.
Furthermore, Arby’s has always been transparent about their ingredients and cooking methods. They have even gone so far as to address this rumor on their website, stating that their roast beef is made from “100% beef with no fillers, additives or preservatives.”
