How To Make Italian Beef

Introduction

Italian beef is a popular dish in Chicago, known for its savory, thinly sliced beef that is slow-cooked in a flavorful broth. This dish is typically served on a crusty Italian roll and topped with giardiniera or sweet peppers. Making Italian beef at home is a delicious and satisfying process that can be enjoyed by the whole family. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to make your own Italian beef at home.

Ingredients

Before you begin making your Italian beef, gather all the necessary ingredients:

• 3-4 pounds of beef chuck roast
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 cup of beef broth
• 1 cup of water
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Giardiniera or sweet peppers for topping
• Crusty Italian rolls for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Beef

1. Season the beef chuck roast on all sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 2: Prepare the Broth

1. Add beef broth, water, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, and thyme to the Dutch oven.
2. Bring the broth to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low.
3. Cook the beef for 3-4 hours, or until it is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 3: Shred the Beef

1. Remove the beef from the Dutch oven and shred it using two forks.
2. Return the shredded beef to the broth in the Dutch oven.
3. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Slice the crusty Italian rolls in half lengthwise.
2. Fill each roll with a generous portion of the shredded beef and top with giardiniera or sweet peppers.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

Making Italian beef at home can be a rewarding experience, but here are some additional tips to ensure the best results:

• For added flavor, you can sear the beef in a separate pan before adding it to the Dutch oven.
• Adjust the seasoning of the broth to suit your taste preferences.
• Italian beef is often served with au jus for dipping—reserve some of the cooking liquid for this purpose.
• Leftover Italian beef can be refrigerated and reheated for future meals.

Conclusion

Creating your own homemade Italian beef is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy this classic dish. By following these simple steps and tips, you can easily make flavorful and tender Italian beef in the comfort of your own kitchen. Serve it on a crusty roll with your favorite toppings for an authentic Chicago-style experience. Buon Appetito!