Chicago-Inspired Italian Beef Sandwich
If you’re a fan of hearty sandwiches that pack a punch of flavor, this Chicago Italian Beef Recipe will surely win you over. Inspired by the traditional Italian beef sandwich and the classic French dip, this recipe offers a unique twist by using stew beef for a rich and tender taste. With just a hint of a pulled pork sandwich, it’s a delightful fusion that promises to tantalize your taste buds.
What is a Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich?
A Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich is a culinary staple from the Windy City. It consists of thinly sliced, seasoned roast beef piled high on a crusty roll, typically served with a flavorful jus or gravy. It’s an iconic part of Chicago’s food scene, well-known for its taste and the immersive experience it provides. For this recipe, we opt for hearty stew beef, offering a different yet equally satisfying texture and flavor profile.
Yield and Preparation Details
This Chicago Italian Beef Recipe takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes to prepare from start to finish. With a total yield of four hearty sandwiches, it’s perfect for serving your family or sharing with friends.
Ingredients
To recreate this Chicago-inspired treat, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1½ pounds boneless beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 6 cloves garlic, sliced
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1½ teaspoons salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
- 3 cups chicken broth, or as needed
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 1 cup chopped giardiniera (pickled Italian vegetables)
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Chicago-Inspired Italian Beef Sandwich:
- Start by seasoning the beef chuck pieces with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and sear until browned on all sides.
- Add the garlic slices to the pot and sauté briefly to release their aroma.
- Pour in the white vinegar and stir to deglaze the pot, ensuring you scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in the oregano, thyme, and rosemary, then season with the remaining salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Add the bay leaf and the red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Pour in enough chicken broth to just cover the beef. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and let it cook for about one hour, or until the beef becomes fork-tender.
- Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and let the beef rest before shredding it gently with forks.
- Toast the ciabatta rolls lightly, and then pile the shredded beef onto the bottom halves. Top with chopped giardiniera and fresh parsley.
- Place the top half of the ciabatta rolls on the sandwich, slice, and serve with some of the cooking broth as jus for dipping.
Healthier Cooking Option
If you’re looking for a healthier twist, consider using an air fryer to dry-toast the ciabatta rolls or steaming them to maintain the texture without added fats. Additionally, using a low-sodium chicken broth can help reduce the sodium content, making this dish even more heart-friendly without compromising the flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Above all, this Chicago Italian Beef Recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures. Firstly, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Secondly, it brings together the best of traditional and modern sandwich-making for a satisfying meal. Most importantly, it’s packed with deliciously seasoned beef and vibrant giardiniera, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. Try it today and relish the flavors of Chicago right in your home.
