The Chicago beef sandwich, also known as the Italian beef sandwich, is a staple of Chicago’s culinary scene. This mouth-watering sandwich consists of thinly sliced roast beef, served in a crusty roll and topped with giardiniera, a spicy pickled vegetable mix, and au jus, a savory beef broth. In this article, we will take you through the steps to make a classic Chicago beef sandwich, just like the ones served at Al’s Beef, Mr. Beef, and other iconic Chicago eateries.
A Brief History of the Chicago Beef Sandwich
The Chicago beef sandwich has its roots in the city’s Italian-American community. The sandwich is believed to have originated in the 1930s, when Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the United States. The sandwich quickly gained popularity in Chicago’s Little Italy neighborhood, where it was served at local delis and restaurants.
The Key Components of a Chicago Beef Sandwich
A classic Chicago beef sandwich consists of the following components:
- Thinly sliced roast beef
- A crusty roll
- Giardiniera, a spicy pickled vegetable mix
- Au jus, a savory beef broth
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
The type of beef used in a Chicago beef sandwich is crucial to its flavor and texture. The most commonly used cut of beef is top round or round tip. This cut is lean and tender, making it perfect for slicing thinly.
Preparing the Beef
To prepare the beef, you will need to roast it in the oven until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Here’s a basic recipe for roasting beef:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 3-4 pound top round or round tip roast | Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). |
| 2 tablespoons olive oil | Season the beef with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. |
| 1 onion, sliced | Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. |
| 3 cloves garlic, minced | Sear the beef on all sides until it is browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. |
| 1 cup beef broth | Transfer the beef to the oven and roast until it reaches your desired level of doneness. |
| 1 tablespoon dried oregano | Let the beef rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing it thinly. |
Making the Giardiniera
Giardiniera is a spicy pickled vegetable mix that is a key component of a Chicago beef sandwich. Here’s a basic recipe for making giardiniera:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 1 cup chopped hot peppers | Combine the chopped hot peppers, celery, and cauliflower in a bowl. |
| 1 cup chopped celery | In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, and pickling spice. |
| 1 cup chopped cauliflower | Bring the pickling liquid to a boil over medium-high heat. |
| 1 cup white vinegar | Pour the pickling liquid over the chopped vegetables and let it cool to room temperature. |
| 1/2 cup granulated sugar | Refrigerate the giardiniera for at least 24 hours before serving. |
| 1/4 cup salt | |
| 1 tablespoon pickling spice |
Making the Au Jus
Au jus is a savory beef broth that is served with a Chicago beef sandwich. Here’s a basic recipe for making au jus:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 2 cups beef broth | Combine the beef broth, beef drippings, and Italian seasoning in a saucepan. |
| 1/4 cup beef drippings | Bring the au jus to a simmer over medium heat. |
| 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning | Reduce the heat to low and let the au jus simmer for at least 10 minutes. |
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that you have prepared the beef, giardiniera, and au jus, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide to assembling a classic Chicago beef sandwich:
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain.
- Split the roll in half and toast it until it’s lightly browned.
- Assemble the sandwich by placing the sliced beef on the roll, followed by a spoonful of giardiniera and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Serve the sandwich with a side of au jus for dipping.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the perfect Chicago beef sandwich:
- Use a high-quality roll that is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Add some melted mozzarella cheese to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
- Use a different type of hot pepper, such as jalapeños or serranos, to give the giardiniera an extra kick.
- Add some sliced onions or bell peppers to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making a Chicago beef sandwich:
- Overcooking the beef, which can make it tough and dry.
- Not toasting the roll, which can make it soggy and unappetizing.
- Not using enough giardiniera, which can make the sandwich bland and flavorless.
- Not serving the sandwich with au jus, which can make it dry and unappetizing.
Conclusion
Making a Chicago beef sandwich is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and authentic Chicago beef sandwich that is sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a native Chicagoan or just a fan of the city’s culinary scene, the Chicago beef sandwich is a must-try dish that is sure to become a favorite.
What is a Chicago Beef Sandwich?
A Chicago Beef Sandwich is a type of sandwich that originated in Chicago, Illinois. It typically consists of thinly sliced roast beef, served in a crusty roll, and topped with giardiniera, a spicy pickled vegetable mix, and au jus, a savory beef broth. The sandwich is often associated with Italian-American cuisine and is a staple of Chicago’s culinary scene.
The key to a great Chicago Beef Sandwich is the quality of the ingredients. The roast beef should be tender and flavorful, the giardiniera should be spicy and tangy, and the au jus should be rich and savory. When all of these elements come together, the result is a sandwich that is both delicious and satisfying.
What type of bread is traditionally used for a Chicago Beef Sandwich?
The bread traditionally used for a Chicago Beef Sandwich is a crusty Italian roll, often referred to as a “Turano roll.” This type of bread is lightly sweetened and has a soft interior, but a crispy crust that holds up well to the juices of the sandwich. The roll is typically lightly toasted or grilled to give it a crispy texture.
Using the right type of bread is essential to creating an authentic Chicago Beef Sandwich. The crusty roll helps to keep the sandwich together, while the soft interior absorbs the juices of the au jus and the flavors of the giardiniera. If you can’t find a Turano roll, you can substitute it with a similar type of Italian bread.
How do I make the giardiniera for my Chicago Beef Sandwich?
Giardiniera is a spicy pickled vegetable mix that is a key component of a Chicago Beef Sandwich. To make giardiniera, you will need a variety of vegetables, including hot peppers, onions, cauliflower, and carrots. These vegetables are typically pickled in a spicy brine made with vinegar, garlic, and hot peppers.
To make giardiniera, simply chop the vegetables and combine them in a bowl. Then, create the brine by combining vinegar, garlic, and hot peppers in a saucepan. Bring the brine to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Pour the brine over the vegetables and let them cool to room temperature. The giardiniera can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
What is au jus, and how do I make it?
Au jus is a savory beef broth that is served with a Chicago Beef Sandwich. It is made by simmering beef bones and vegetables in water, then straining the liquid and seasoning it with salt and pepper. The au jus is an essential component of the sandwich, as it adds flavor and moisture to the roast beef.
To make au jus, simply combine beef bones and vegetables in a large pot. Add enough water to cover the bones, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the liquid has reduced and the flavors have melded together. Strain the liquid and season it with salt and pepper to taste. The au jus can be served hot or cold, depending on your preference.
How do I slice the roast beef for my Chicago Beef Sandwich?
The roast beef for a Chicago Beef Sandwich should be sliced thinly, against the grain. This will help to ensure that the meat is tender and easy to chew. To slice the roast beef, use a sharp knife and slice it into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick.
It’s also important to slice the roast beef when it is cold, as this will help to prevent it from tearing. You can slice the roast beef ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the sandwiches. Simply slice the meat, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.
Can I use a slow cooker to make the roast beef for my Chicago Beef Sandwich?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker to make the roast beef for your Chicago Beef Sandwich. In fact, a slow cooker is a great way to cook the roast beef, as it allows the meat to cook slowly and evenly. Simply season the roast beef with salt and pepper, then place it in the slow cooker with some beef broth and cook on low for 8-10 hours.
Using a slow cooker is a great way to make the roast beef for your Chicago Beef Sandwich, as it allows you to cook the meat while you are busy with other tasks. Simply cook the roast beef in the slow cooker, then slice it thinly and assemble the sandwiches. The slow cooker is also a great way to keep the roast beef warm, as you can simply leave it in the cooker until you are ready to serve.
How do I assemble a Chicago Beef Sandwich?
Assembling a Chicago Beef Sandwich is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients. To assemble the sandwich, simply slice the roast beef thinly, then place it in a crusty Italian roll. Add some giardiniera on top of the roast beef, then spoon some au jus over the top.
Finally, place the top of the roll on the sandwich and serve immediately. You can also add some melted mozzarella cheese to the sandwich, if desired. The key to assembling a great Chicago Beef Sandwich is to use high-quality ingredients and to assemble the sandwich just before serving. This will help to ensure that the sandwich is fresh and flavorful.