Italian beef is a popular sandwich in Chicago, made with thinly sliced beef that has been slow-cooked in a seasoned broth until tender and flavorful. Here’s a recipe for preparing Italian beef at home:

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 pounds beef sirloin or rump roast
  • 1 quart beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 6-8 crusty Italian rolls
  • Giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables) for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large slow cooker, combine the beef broth, red wine, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine.
  2. Add the beef roast to the slow cooker and turn to coat with the broth mixture.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the beef is very tender.
  4. Remove the beef from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
  5. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer and use it to make au jus for dipping.
  6. To serve, pile the sliced beef onto the Italian rolls and spoon some of the au jus over the top. Add giardiniera to taste, if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Italian beef sandwich!

Image from Wikipedia