Braised Beef Sandwiches

Braised Beef Sandwiches Recipe

These braised beef sandwiches are perfect for a cozy meal, with tender, flavorful beef and a rich sauce, all nestled in a soft, hearty bun. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients:

• For the Braised Beef:
  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast (or brisket)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (or additional beef broth)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• For the Sandwiches:
  • Soft sandwich rolls or baguettes
  • 4 slices provolone or Swiss cheese (optional)
  • Pickles or other sandwich toppings (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
   • Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear it in the pot for about 4-5 minutes per side, until browned. This helps develop flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
   • In the same pot, add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Deglaze and Braise:
   • Stir in the tomato paste, then pour in the red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom.
   • Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and balsamic vinegar.
   • Return the beef to the pot, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid.
   • Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the pot and place it in a 300°F (150°C) oven to braise for about 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
4. Shred the Beef:
   • Remove the beef from the pot and shred it with two forks.
   • Discard the bay leaves and any large bits of fat.
   • Return the shredded beef to the pot, and stir to coat it in the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches:
   • Slice your rolls or baguettes and toast them lightly, if desired.
   • Pile the braised beef onto the rolls, and top with a slice of cheese if you like.
   • Optionally, add pickles or other sandwich toppings.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the sandwiches hot, with the delicious braised beef soaking into the bread.

Enjoy your hearty, flavorful braised beef sandwiches! These are great served with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad.