Chicago's iconic Italian beef sandwich: a culinary masterpiece of tender, slow-cooked beef, bathed in a rich, savory au jus, and piled high on a crusty Italian roll. This isn't just a sandwich; it's an experience. The perfect blend of juicy meat, tangy giardiniera, and the satisfying soak of the au jus creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the Windy City. Forget everything you think you know about roast beef – this is a whole other level of deliciousness, a testament to the power of simple ingredients elevated by masterful preparation.
This recipe, inspired by the legendary Chicago-style sandwich, walks you through the process of creating this flavorful masterpiece from scratch. We'll break down the steps, ensuring you achieve that tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef and a perfectly balanced au jus. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's get started with our step-by-step guide!
Tools Needed
- Slow cooker
Ingredients
- Chuck roast
- Salt
- Pepper
- Beef broth
- Pepperoncini peppers
- Pepperoncini brine
- Giardiniera
- Italian seasoning
- Granulated garlic
- Granulated onion
- Rolls
- Provolone cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Beef
- Remove any large fat pieces from the chuck roast and chop it into large chunks (for faster cooking).
- Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper.
- Add beef broth to the slow cooker for flavor and juiciness.
- Add pepperoncini peppers and some of their brine to the slow cooker.
- Add giardiniera (pickled vegetables) to the slow cooker.
- Add Italian seasoning, granulated garlic, and granulated onion (fresh garlic and onion can be used as well).
- Mix everything well in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4-5 hours, or until the beef shreds easily.
Step 2. Shred and Season
- Shred the cooked beef.
Step 3. Toast and Melt
- Toast your favorite rolls and add provolone cheese until it melts.
Step 4. Assemble the Sandwich
- Add the shredded beef to the toasted rolls with provolone. Add extra giardiniera or pepperoncini peppers, as desired.
Read more: Classic Beef Spiedini: Italian-Style Kebabs Recipe
Tips
- Save leftover beef broth in the freezer for future use.
- Make sure to toast the rolls well to soak up the juices.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-800
- Fat: 30-50g
- Carbs: 50-70g
- Protein: 40-50g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of beef?
Yes! While chuck roast is traditional, you can substitute with other cuts like bottom round or even sirloin, just adjust cooking time accordingly. Tougher cuts are better as they become more tender during the long cooking process.
2. How do I make the au jus thicker?
Reduce the au jus on the stovetop after cooking the beef. Simmer it uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken it more quickly.
3. What if I don't have giardiniera?
Giardiniera adds a delicious crunch and acidity, but it's not essential. You can substitute with pickled peppers, or even just some finely chopped sweet or hot peppers. A simple mix of sautéed onions and peppers would also work well.
So there you have it – your very own delicious, Bear-inspired Italian beef sandwiches! From tender beef to rich au jus, this recipe delivers an authentic Chicago taste experience right to your kitchen table. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and savor every bite of this satisfying and flavorful masterpiece.