Chicago Italian Beef?

Question

This Texan is looking to be enlightened…

I don't live in Chicagoland so recomendations are not going to do me any good. What are the characteristics of a GREAT Chicago Italian Beef???

Answer 1

good beef, and lots of sauce. You need to have your bread soggy. A good french style bread is where its at... if you get served italian beef on a keiser roll, just leave it be and walk away. Add sweet peppers or hot pepper mix. Mozz cheese is good but not authentic.

Answer 2

First of all its large at least on 8" french bread. Its a little bit spicy but not hot. The beef is juicy and plentfull and its all dipped in the beef gravy and served with a generous portion of french fries and your favorite soft drink. If your ever in town, try Portillo's or Al's Italian beef or Buona Beef you can't go wrong with any of these. Best regards to you all in the Lone Star State...

Answer 3

Some of the key factors are thin slices of beef with very little seasoning added.  Mostly garlic and onion.

You need a great bun and it has to be soggy.  IN my opinion, it is the bun that makes the sandwhich.

Some people melt white cheeses on theirs, I love ketchup on mine!