For a richer flavor, use beef broth instead of chicken broth. If you prefer a spicier sandwich, add more red pepper flakes. The beef can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.
Embark on a culinary journey to the Windy City with this Italian Beef Sandwich, a symphony of tender beef, tangy giardiniera, and aromatic broth, all nestled within a crusty ciabatta roll. This hearty sandwich is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Season beef with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a heavy pot over high heat. Cook and stir beef in hot oil until browned, 5 to 8 minutes.
Stir garlic, vinegar, oregano, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, thyme, rosemary, 1 teaspoon black pepper, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes into beef. Pour enough chicken broth into beef mixture to cover the meat by 1 inch and bring to a simmer.
Cover pot with a lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer until meat is fork-tender, 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Transfer meat with a strainer or slotted spoon to a separate pot; pour about 1/4 cup of meat broth into pot. Use a wooden spoon to gently break meat into smaller chunks. Cover pot with a lid or aluminum foil and keep warm.
Skim excess grease from top of broth remaining in the first pot; season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover pot with a lid or aluminum foil and keep broth warm.
Lay halves of a roll out on a work surface and spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons meat broth over each half. Top bottom half of roll with a generous portion of meat and a spoonful of pickled vegetables. Place tops on sandwich. Repeat with remaining buns, broth, meat, and pickled vegetables to make 3 more sandwiches.
Spoon hot meat broth into ramekins and top each ramekin with 1/2 teaspoon parsley. Serve sandwiches with hot broth for dipping.
For a richer flavor, use beef broth instead of chicken broth. If you prefer a spicier sandwich, add more red pepper flakes. The beef can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.
Joey Weissnat
Apr 3, 2025I added a little bit of Dijon mustard to the rolls for extra flavor.
Rosalinda Labadie
Aug 21, 2024So easy to make and tastes incredible!
Ramon Simonismurray
Jul 31, 2024I made this for a party, and it was a huge hit! Everyone loved it.
Lola Torp
Jun 11, 2024The giardiniera really makes this sandwich special. I wouldn't skip it.
Margret Dach
Mar 24, 2024This recipe is fantastic! The beef was so tender and flavorful.
Waldo Grady
Feb 28, 2024This is my new go-to recipe for Italian beef sandwiches!
Flo Hammes
Dec 19, 2023My family devoured these! Will definitely make again.
Gabe Senger
Dec 11, 2023The broth is amazing! I could drink it on its own.