Imagine yourself walking into the bustling Portillo’s restaurant in Chicago, the aroma of savory beef and spices filling the air. The iconic Italian beef sandwich is a staple in Chicago cuisine, known for its tender beef, flavorful au jus, and crusty Italian bread. Now, you can recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen with this step-by-step guide.
Tastes Just Like the Original
This homemade version of the Portillo’s Italian beef sandwich tastes just like the one you would get at the restaurant. The tender beef, seasoned to perfection, paired with the savory au jus and soft Italian bread, will transport you straight to the streets of Chicago.
Reasons to Make This Dish
- Experience the authentic flavors of Chicago cuisine in your own home.
- Ideal for a crowd-pleasing meal at gatherings or parties.
- Simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Why My Family Loves This Meal
Every time I make this Italian beef sandwich for my family, it brings us together around the dinner table. The rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a comforting and satisfying meal that we all enjoy. It has become a favorite in our household for its delicious taste and nostalgic connection to our visits to Chicago.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast – provides the tender and flavorful base for the sandwich.
- 1 cup beef broth – adds depth of flavor to the au jus.
- 1 onion, sliced – enhances the savory profile of the beef.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – adds a fragrant and aromatic element to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – infuses the beef with classic Italian flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste – enhances the overall seasoning of the dish.
- 6 Italian rolls – serves as the vessel for the beef and au jus.
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you begin cooking, make sure to trim any excess fat from the beef chuck roast and season it generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Slice the onion and mince the garlic to add to the flavor profile of the dish.
Cutting Techniques
When slicing the beef chuck roast, make sure to cut against the grain to ensure tenderness in each bite. Thinly slice the beef for optimal texture and flavor in the sandwich.
Kitchen Tools Required
To make the Portillo’s Italian beef sandwich, you will need a slow cooker or Instant Pot to cook the beef to tender perfection. A sharp knife for slicing the beef, a cutting board for prep work, and a large skillet for searing the beef are also essential tools for this recipe.
Temperature and Timing Guide
Cook the beef chuck roast in the slow cooker on low for 8-10 hours or in the Instant Pot on high pressure for 60 minutes. Allow the beef to rest before slicing and assembling the sandwiches.
Common Issues and Solutions
- If the beef is tough, it may need more time to cook until it reaches a tender consistency.
- If the au jus is too salty, dilute it with additional beef broth or water to balance the flavors.
Instructions
- Season the beef: Trim excess fat from the beef chuck roast and season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook the beef: Place the seasoned beef in the slow cooker or Instant Pot with beef broth, onion, and garlic. Cook until tender.
- Slice the beef: Remove the beef from the cooking liquid and thinly slice it against the grain.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Pile the sliced beef onto Italian rolls and serve with a side of au jus for dipping.
Prep and Cooking Time
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker) or 60 minutes (Instant Pot)
Nutritional Value
Each serving of the Portillo’s Italian beef sandwich contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying and hearty meal option.
Tips for Restaurant Quality Results
- Use high-quality beef chuck roast for the best flavor and texture in the sandwich.
- Allow the beef to rest before slicing to retain its juices and tenderness.
- Adjust the seasoning of the au jus to suit your taste preferences.
Alternative Ways to Change the Recipe
For a twist on the classic Italian beef sandwich, try adding sliced peppers and melted provolone cheese for a Philly cheesesteak-inspired variation. You can also experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor profile of the dish to your liking.
Final Thoughts
The Portillo’s Italian beef sandwich is a beloved classic that captures the essence of Chicago cuisine. By following this comprehensive guide, you can recreate this iconic dish in your own kitchen and enjoy the rich flavors and comforting taste of this hearty sandwich. Whether you’re a fan of Chicago cuisine or simply looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and bring a taste of the Windy City to your home.
