Cheese And Meat: The Perfect Italian Beef Pairing

There are many opinions on what kind of cheese to use for an Italian beef sandwich, with some arguing that cheese does not belong on this type of sandwich at all. However, the cheeses that are most commonly mentioned are provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar. Provolone is the most popular choice, as it has a mild flavour that pairs well with the tangy peppers that are often included in Italian beef sandwiches. Mozzarella is another mild option that can be used in place of provolone, while cheddar offers a stronger flavour that may overpower the other ingredients.

Mozzarella or provolone are good cheese options

Provolone is a traditional choice for Italian beef sandwiches, as its mild flavour pairs well with the tangy peppers that are commonly used in this dish. It is also a good melting cheese, which means it will become nice and gooey when heated. Mozzarella is another cheese that melts well and can add a similar savoury note to the sandwich.

To make an Italian beef sandwich, you can start by searing a chuck roast and then transferring it to a slow cooker with beef broth, pepperoncini peppers, and seasonings such as Italian salad dressing mix, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. After cooking the beef until it is tender, you can shred it and assemble your sandwiches. Spread some butter on hoagie rolls and toast them until golden brown. Then, pile on the juicy shredded Italian beef and add your cheese. You can pop the sandwiches back under the grill to help the cheese melt.

Some people also like to add other toppings to their Italian beef sandwiches, such as giardiniera (a mix of pickled vegetables), roasted garlic aioli, or hot peppers.

Cheddar is not a good option

While some people may enjoy cheddar on their Italian beef sandwiches, it is generally not a good option for several reasons.

Firstly, cheddar has a strong flavour and can overpower the other ingredients in the sandwich. Italian beef sandwiches typically feature a variety of flavours and textures, such as tangy peppers, juicy beef, and pickled vegetables. The mild flavour of provolone or mozzarella cheese pairs better with these ingredients without being too overwhelming.

Secondly, cheddar has a firmer texture compared to other cheeses, which can make it difficult to melt evenly. Provolone and mozzarella, on the other hand, melt smoothly and create a cohesive sandwich that is easier to eat.

Additionally, cheddar may not complement the spices and seasonings typically used in Italian beef sandwiches. The sharp, salty taste of cheddar can clash with the Italian seasonings, whereas provolone or mozzarella enhance the flavours without overpowering them.

Finally, tradition plays a role in the choice of cheese for Italian beef sandwiches. While there is no standard recipe, the sandwich is often associated with Chicago, and locals tend to prefer provolone or mozzarella. Using cheddar may be seen as a deviation from the classic Italian beef sandwich that is beloved by many.

In conclusion, while personal preference plays a role in choosing the cheese for an Italian beef sandwich, cheddar is generally not the best option due to its strong flavour, texture, and cultural considerations. Provolone and mozzarella are more popular choices that complement the sandwich's ingredients and uphold the traditions associated with this classic dish.

Beef and cheddar croissants are a tasty alternative

Beef and Cheddar Croissants: A Tasty Alternative

Italian beef sandwiches are a popular dish, but for those looking for something a little different, beef and cheddar croissants are a tasty alternative. This combination of flaky pastry, melted cheese, and tender meat creates a delicious snack or meal.

A Hearty Snack

Beef and cheddar croissants are a filling snack or meal option. The combination of protein-rich beef and the sharpness of cheddar cheese creates a satisfying flavour profile. The flakiness of the croissant adds a textural contrast to the sandwich, making it a tasty treat.

Customisation Options

Like Italian beef sandwiches, beef and cheddar croissants can be customised to suit individual tastes. Some people enjoy adding hot peppers or sweet peppers for an extra kick of flavour. Others might prefer to dip their croissant in au jus for added juiciness. The customisation options allow people to create their ideal sandwich.

A Chicago Favourite

Beef and cheddar croissants are a well-known dish in Chicago, made famous by restaurants such as Portillo's. This combination of flavours and textures has gained a loyal following, with many people considering it a must-try item when visiting the city. The sandwich's popularity has even inspired home cooks to create their own versions, adding their unique twists.

A Simple Delight

Preparing beef and cheddar croissants is a straightforward process. Starting with a base of croissant dough, layers of roast beef and cheddar cheese are stacked and then baked until the cheese melts. This simple recipe makes it accessible for home cooks to recreate this delicious treat in their own kitchens.

Beef and cheddar croissants offer a tasty alternative to Italian beef sandwiches, combining flaky pastry, melted cheese, and tender meat to create a satisfying and flavourful snack or meal. With customisation options and a simple recipe, it's no wonder this sandwich has gained a loyal following, especially in Chicago.

Horseradish aioli is a great addition

The key ingredient in horseradish aioli is, of course, horseradish, which is a large, beige-colored root vegetable known for its pungent and spicy taste. When paired with the other ingredients in the aioli, such as mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, it creates a bold and flavorful condiment.

One of the reasons why horseradish aioli works so well with Italian beef sandwiches is its ability to enhance the flavor of the meat. The creamy texture of the aioli complements the texture of the beef, while the spice from the horseradish adds a pleasant kick that elevates the overall taste experience. Additionally, the aioli can help to moisten the sandwich, ensuring that each bite is juicy and flavorful.

For those who enjoy experimenting with flavors, horseradish aioli offers a versatile base that can be customized to personal preferences. Some like to add sour cream for an even richer consistency, while others might prefer to use Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can also be added to give the aioli a brighter, more herbaceous flavor.

When assembling an Italian beef sandwich with horseradish aioli, it is essential to consider the type of cheese used. Traditional choices include provolone or smoked provolone, which have mild flavors that pair well with the tangy peppers often found in Italian beef sandwiches. However, some people also enjoy using Swiss cheese or shredded mozzarella, depending on their taste preferences.

Provolone and pepperoncini peppers are a good combination

Provolone and pepperoncini peppers are a great combination for Italian beef sandwiches. Provolone is a type of cheese with a mild flavour that pairs well with the tangy and spicy pepperoncini peppers. The cheese is creamy and slightly sharp, complementing the cured meats in an Italian sub perfectly.

Pepperoncini peppers are pickled sweet chili peppers that add a tangy and spicy kick to the sandwich. They are similar in appearance to banana peppers but are smaller, more wrinkled, and have a yellow-green hue. When combined with provolone cheese, they create a delicious and flavourful sandwich experience.

In addition to provolone and pepperoncini peppers, Italian beef sandwiches typically include other ingredients such as Italian salad dressing, hoagie rolls, and various meats like salami, capicola, and mortadella. Some people also add giardiniera, which is a mix of Italian pickled vegetables.

The combination of provolone cheese and pepperoncini peppers is a classic choice for Italian beef sandwiches, offering a delightful contrast of flavours and textures. The mild and creamy provolone complements the tangy and spicy peppers, creating a well-rounded and satisfying bite.

You can further customise your Italian beef sandwich by toasting the hoagie rolls, adding extra vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and red onions, or even spreading mayonnaise on the bread. This combination of provolone and pepperoncini peppers provides a versatile base for customisation while retaining the classic Italian sub flavours.

Frequently asked questions