The iconic Chicago Italian beef sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience. Imagine thinly sliced, seasoned beef, slow-cooked to tender perfection, piled high on a crusty roll, and dipped in a flavorful *jus*. It’s a symphony of savory goodness! If you’re craving this classic but can’t make it to the Windy City, don’t worry. This guide will walk you through exactly how to make Italian beef Chicago style right in your own kitchen.
What Makes Chicago Italian Beef Special?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s understand what sets Chicago Italian beef apart. The key is a combination of factors:
The Beef: Typically, a lean cut like top round or sirloin is used, allowing for thin slicing after cooking.
The Seasoning: A blend of Italian herbs, garlic, and spices infuses the beef with its characteristic savory flavor.
Slow Cooking: This is essential for tenderizing the beef and developing a rich, flavorful *jus*.
The Roll: A sturdy, crusty Italian roll is crucial for holding the juicy beef and standing up to the dipping process.
The Toppings: Giardiniera (pickled vegetables) and sweet peppers are the traditional accompaniments, adding a tangy and slightly spicy kick.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of what you’ll need to create your Italian beef masterpiece:
3-4 pound top round or sirloin roast
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried marjoram
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups beef broth
1 cup water
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
Italian rolls
Giardiniera (hot or mild)
Sweet peppers (roasted or canned)
Equipment
Large Dutch oven or pot
Slow cooker (optional, but recommended)
Sharp knife or meat slicer (for slicing the beef)
Tongs
Soup ladle
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps for authentic Chicago Italian beef:
Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef roast on all sides until nicely browned. This adds depth of flavor. Remove the roast and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Spices and Liquids: Stir in the oregano, basil, thyme, marjoram, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices. Pour in the beef broth, water, and red wine vinegar. Bring to a simmer.
Slow Cook the Beef: Return the beef roast to the pot. Ensure it’s mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and either simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours, or transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be fork-tender.
Shred or Slice the Beef: Remove the beef from the pot and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Using a sharp knife or meat slicer, thinly slice the beef against the grain. Alternatively, you can shred the beef with two forks.
Soak the Beef: Return the sliced or shredded beef to the pot with the cooking liquid (*jus*). Let it soak for at least 30 minutes. This infuses the beef with even more flavor and moisture.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice the Italian rolls lengthwise. Spoon a generous amount of the juicy beef onto each roll. Top with giardiniera and/or sweet peppers, according to your preference.
Dip (Optional): For the full Chicago experience, dip the entire sandwich in the *jus* before eating. This is known as a “wet” Italian beef. For an extra-wet sandwich, ask for “dipped.” For a sandwich with the *jus* on the side, order it “dry.”
Tips for Success
Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the beef is crucial for developing a rich, flavorful base for the *jus*.
Thin Slices are Key: Thinly sliced beef is much more tender and easier to eat.
Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the *jus* and adjust the salt, pepper, and spices to your liking.
Use Quality Ingredients: Good quality beef broth and fresh, flavorful spices will make a big difference.
Make it Ahead: Italian beef is even better the next day. The flavors meld together and the beef becomes even more tender.
Variations and Substitutions
Beef Cut: If you can’t find top round or sirloin, you can use chuck roast, but be aware that it will be fattier.
Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference. You can also add a bay leaf to the cooking liquid for extra flavor.
Peppers: If you don’t like giardiniera or sweet peppers, you can use pepperoncini or other pickled vegetables.
Rolls: If you can’t find Italian rolls, you can use French rolls or hoagie rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Chicago Italian beef sandwiches are a complete meal on their own, but you can also serve them with:
French fries
Coleslaw
Pasta salad
Potato salad
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make Italian beef in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes! Sear the beef as directed, then add all ingredients to the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 60-70 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.
Q: Can I freeze Italian beef?
A: Absolutely. Let the beef cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag with some of the *jus*. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: How do I reheat Italian beef?
A: Thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little extra beef broth or water if needed.
Q: What is giardiniera?
A: Giardiniera is an Italian relish of pickled vegetables in vinegar or oil. It typically includes cauliflower, carrots, celery, peppers, and olives. You can find it in hot or mild varieties.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: While this recipe is traditionally made with beef, you could try substituting with hearty mushrooms like portobellos. Season them well and slow cook in vegetable broth with the same spices for a similar, though not identical, flavor profile.
Enjoy Your Homemade Chicago Italian Beef!
With this recipe, you’re now equipped to make authentic Chicago Italian beef right at home. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare for a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to the heart of Chicago. Enjoy!