Italian Beef Pizza

Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that pays tribute to Chicago’s iconic Italian beef sandwich—the Italian Beef pizza. This mouthwatering delight showcases slow-cooked beef, thinly shaved, and drenched in an au jus made from the braising juices, creating an explosion of flavors on a pizza. The Italian Beef is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Windy City, and its popularity alongside the renowned deep-dish pizza and hot dogs speaks volumes about its deliciousness. As you bite into this pizza, you’ll experience the succulence of American Wagyu bottom round, enriched with Italian seasonings and a luscious caramelized flavor. Join us as we explore the art of preparing this delectable pizza masterpiece.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons (28 grams) fine sea salt
• 1 tablespoon (8 grams) freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon (3 grams) Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon (10 grams) granulated garlic
• 1 tablespoon (8 grams) onion powder
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) olive oil
• 1 (5-to 6-pound/2.3-to 2.6-kilograms) American-Wagyu (Kobe-style) bottom round flat roast, preferably Snake River Farms
• 10 cloves garlic (30 grams)
• Olive oil, for rubbing and drizzling
• ⅓ cup (75 grams) hot water
• 2 tablespoons (32 grams) tomato paste, preferably Saporito Super Heavy Pizza Sauce
• 1 tablespoon (14 grams) fine sea salt
• 2 yellow onions (340 grams), quartered

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a small bowl, stir together salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, granulated garlic, and onion powder to make the seasoning paste. Add the oil and stir until a dry paste forms.
2. Trim any silver skin from the bottom round roast. Then, trim the fat cap to form an even layer ½ inch thick that covers the top of the roast.
3. Cut ten 1-inch slits in the fat-cap side of the beef and stuff a garlic clove into each slit.
4. Rub the top of the roast with 2 tablespoons of oil, then pat the seasoning mixture evenly over the top and slightly down the sides of the roast.
5. In a large Dutch oven, whisk together hot water, tomato paste, and salt. Place the seasoned beef, fat-cap side up, into the liquid. Use onion pieces to prop up any thinner sections of beef, making the top of the roast as level as possible.
6. Broil the uncovered pot in the oven for about 5 to 8 minutes until the top of the meat is charred.
7. Lower the oven temperature to 300°F and continue cooking for 1 hour, maintaining the original level of liquid.
8. Check the temperature of the roast in the center to gauge the remaining cooking time. The finished roast should be 130°F in the thickest part for medium-rare. The total cooking time will be about 1½ hours.
9. Let the meat cool in the liquid for 30 minutes after removing the pot from the oven. Then, let it cool at room temperature for about 1 hour before refrigerating for at least 6 hours or up to 2 days.
10. Strain the broth, bring it to a simmer, and reduce it to 7 to 8 cups. Strain into a storage container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
11. Trim and discard the fat from the meat before using it on a pizza or in a sandwich. Slice the meat very thinly or shave it using a meat slicer for the best results.

YIELD:

• Makes 3½ to 4 pounds (1.6 to 1.8 kilograms) of Italian beef.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• None specified.

TIPS:

• Use a meat slicer if possible to achieve the thinnest slices of beef.
• For the best results, shave the beef after it has been well chilled in the refrigerator.

The Italian Beef pizza is a true gem that celebrates the culinary tradition of Chicago’s beloved Italian beef sandwich. Through meticulous preparation and the finest ingredients, we’ve created a pizza that pays homage to the rich flavors and tender texture of this iconic dish.

The journey begins with a succulent American Wagyu bottom round roast, coated in a delightful seasoning paste, and charred to perfection. Slowly braised to preserve its juiciness and enhance its flavor, the beef emerges as a caramelized masterpiece, ready to take center stage on our pizza.

The Italian Beef pizza allows you to indulge in the deliciousness of this classic dish in a new and exciting format. The thinly shaved beef, enriched with flavorful au jus, harmonizes with the delectable cheese and crispy crust, creating a symphony of tastes that will transport you to the heart of Chicago’s culinary culture.

Whether you’re savoring it as a pizza topping or as a mouthwatering sandwich, the Italian Beef pizza is a celebration of culinary artistry and dedication to the craft of pizza-making. We invite you to take a bite and experience the rich heritage and passion that make this pizza an irresistible treat.

So, join us on this delightful journey to experience the magic of Italian beef in a whole new way. With each bite of the Italian Beef pizza, you’ll discover the essence of Chicago’s culinary soul—a city that cherishes its traditions and embraces culinary innovation with equal fervor.