Italian beef is a famous Chicago-style sandwich, originated in the 1930s, made with juicy and tender roasted beef, seasoned with Italian spices and served with a side of giardiniera or spicy peppers, all on crusty bread rolls. The sandwich has always been a staple in the Windy City, but nowadays, it is enjoyed all over the country due to its unique and irresistible flavor.
While the focus of the Italian beef sandwich is always on the beef, the sides that accompany it are just as important to complete the meal. Whether it is a refreshing salad or a warm bowl of soup, the right combination of sides can take the taste of the sandwich to the next level. Therefore, in this article, we will explore some of the most popular and delicious sides that are traditionally served with Italian beef to enhance its flavor and experience.
Classic Italian beef sandwich accompaniments
Classic Italian beef sandwich accompaniments refer to those sides that traditionally pair well with Italian beef sandwiches. These sides are mostly chosen based on their ability to complement the flavors of the sandwich and provide a balance of taste. The most popular side for an Italian beef sandwich is giardiniera, a relish made of pickled vegetables that adds a tangy, zesty flavor to the sandwich. The vegetables used in giardiniera include celery, carrots, cauliflower, bell peppers, and olives, among others.
Another classic side that pairs well with Italian beef sandwiches is French fries. Whether they are plain or seasoned with herbs and spices, fries add a crispy texture to the sandwich and are a great way to balance out its rich and meaty flavor. Other popular sides for Italian beef sandwiches include coleslaw, potato chips, and onion rings. Ultimately, the choice of side largely depends on an individual’s personal preference and the availability of ingredients in their region.
Vegetarian and vegan options to serve with Italian beef
When it comes to serving Italian beef, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options to pair it with. For starters, you can serve Italian sautéed greens such as spinach, kale, or chard, or you can also go for grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, and eggplant. Charred and roasted vegetables like mushrooms, brussels sprouts, and bell peppers are also a great option.
If you’re looking for something more carb-centric, try pairing your Italian beef with a classic Italian dish like a Caprese salad, a simple panzanella salad, or a light mushroom risotto. You can also serve garlic bread or vegan garlic bread on the side to soak up all the tasty juices. All of these side dishes provide the right balance of flavors that complement the savory and rich Italian beef dish, making your meal feel complete and well-rounded.
Regional Italian side dishes that pair well with beef
Regional Italian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and ingredients that are sourced locally. When it comes to pairing side dishes with Italian beef, there are many options to choose from. Some of the most popular regional Italian side dishes that pair perfectly with beef include roasted potatoes, risotto, and polenta.
In Northern Italy, roasted potatoes are a classic side dish that is often served with beef. Typically sliced thin and roasted with olive oil, rosemary, and garlic, this dish provides a textural contrast to the juicy and tender beef. In Central Italy, risotto is a popular side dish that is creamy and indulgent, making it a perfect accompaniment to beef. In Southern Italy, polenta is a popular side dish that is made from cornmeal and is often served as a base for stews, braised meats, and other hearty dishes. These regional Italian side dishes are versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your taste and preferences.
The best wines to serve with Italian beef
Italian beef is a flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of wines. To complement the richness of the beef, a bold red wine such as Chianti or Barolo is a great choice. These wines have a high tannin content that can cut through the fat of the beef, while their fruity and spicy notes complement the dish’s flavor.
For those who prefer a lighter wine, a Pinot Noir or Sangiovese might be a better option. These wines are less bold and have a lower tannin content, making them a good choice for those who want something smoother and fruitier. Additionally, if you’re serving Italian beef with a tomato-based sauce, a Chianti or other Tuscan red wine can be an excellent match, as the acidity in the sauce and wine can complement each other well. Regardless of your preference, choosing the right wine can elevate your Italian beef meal to a truly unforgettable experience.
Light and refreshing salads to balance the richness of beef
When it comes to pairing sides with Italian beef, it’s important to remember that balance is key. While the beef may be rich and savory, a light and refreshing salad can provide the perfect contrast. A mix of fresh greens, crisp vegetables, and tangy dressing can help to cut through the richness of the beef, cleansing the palate and leaving you feeling satisfied but not weighed down.
Some great salad options to pair with Italian beef include classic Caesar salad with homemade dressing, mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinaigrette, or a simple arugula salad with lemon and olive oil. These salads can be great on their own or paired with a smaller portion of beef to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. So next time you’re serving Italian beef, don’t forget to add a light and refreshing salad on the side for the perfect balance of flavors.
Homemade sauces and dips to enhance the flavors of Italian beef
Homemade sauces and dips can truly elevate the flavors of Italian beef. While the meat itself is delicious, adding a homemade sauce or dip can bring out new flavors and create a unique culinary experience. One popular sauce for Italian beef is giardiniera, a mixture of pickled vegetables and spices. This tangy, slightly spicy sauce pairs perfectly with the rich, savory taste of beef.
Another great sauce option is a homemade tomato sauce. Tomatoes are a key ingredient in many Italian dishes, and adding a fresh, homemade tomato sauce to your Italian beef can take the dish to the next level. For those who prefer a creamy texture, a garlic aioli or horseradish sauce can be a delicious addition to Italian beef. These rich, smooth sauces provide a nice contrast to the texture of the beef and add a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Creative ideas for repurposing leftover Italian beef in side dishes
Using leftover Italian beef in side dishes is an excellent way to avoid food waste and create new and exciting meals. One of the best ways to repurpose leftover Italian beef is by mixing it with pasta. You can toss your beef with some cooked spaghetti, adding some parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning for an incredible meal. You can also add the beef to a hearty soup, chili, or stew to create more bulk and add protein to the meal.
Another excellent way to use leftover beef is by incorporating it into a salad. You can chop it into small pieces and mix it with lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and other vegetables of your choice, and top it all off with your favorite dressing. You can also add the beef to scrambled eggs or roasted vegetables, create a delicious sandwich, or even use it as a topping for your pizza. The possibilities are endless, and you can let your creativity run wild with repurposing leftover Italian beef in your side dishes.
The Bottom Line
Italian beef is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. The choice of sides that accompany the beef can make a significant difference in the overall taste of the meal. With the numerous options available, it’s essential to experiment with different sides and find the ones that complement the beef best.
Some classic sides like giardiniera and Italian bread are popular choices, but other sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and salad can also enhance the dish’s flavor. Ultimately, the ideal side dish for Italian beef comes down to personal preference. Whether it’s a classic or unconventional choice, as long as it enhances the flavor, it’s the perfect side to accompany the dish. So, experiment with different sides and create a delicious meal that you truly enjoy.