If you’ve ever had an Italian beef sandwich, you know that the bread is just as important as the juicy, flavorful beef and toppings.
But what kind of bread is used for this iconic sandwich?
Traditionally, Italian beef sandwiches are made with a type of bread called ciabatta. This light and airy bread has a crispy crust that perfectly soaks up all the delicious juices from the beef and toppings.
However, there are other options out there, and some people have their own preferences.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of bread that can be used for Italian beef sandwiches and what makes each one unique.
So, whether you’re a die-hard ciabatta fan or open to trying something new, keep reading to learn more!
What Kind Of Bread Is Used For Italian Beef Sandwiches?
As mentioned earlier, ciabatta is the traditional bread used for Italian beef sandwiches. This bread is known for its light and airy texture, which makes it perfect for soaking up all the flavorful juices from the beef and toppings. It also has a crispy crust that adds a nice crunch to the sandwich.
However, some people prefer other types of bread for their Italian beef sandwiches. French rolls are a popular alternative, especially in Chicago where Italian beef sandwiches are a staple. These rolls are sturdy enough to hold up to the juicy beef and toppings without getting soggy.
Other options include hoagie rolls and Italian bread rolls. Hoagie rolls are similar to French rolls but have a slightly softer texture, while Italian bread rolls are denser and have a chewy texture.
Ultimately, the type of bread you choose for your Italian beef sandwich comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the traditional ciabatta, while others like the sturdiness of French rolls or the chewiness of Italian bread rolls.
Ciabatta: The Traditional Choice
Ciabatta bread is the traditional choice for Italian beef sandwiches. This bread originated in Italy in the 1980s and quickly became popular for its light and airy texture, which is perfect for soaking up all the flavorful juices from the beef and toppings. The dough used to make ciabatta is very wet, which gives it its irregularly-shaped air pockets and crispy crust.
Ciabatta bread is versatile and can be used for a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, toast, and even pizza crust. It’s also a good choice for soup or chili bread bowls because it soaks up the liquid without getting soggy.
When using ciabatta for Italian beef sandwiches, it’s important to lightly toast the slices to give them a bit of crunch. The bread can also be brushed with olive oil before toasting to create an extra crispy crust. Once toasted, the bread can be topped with sautéed or grilled onions, peppers, and mushrooms, along with melted provolone cheese.
French Bread: A Popular Alternative
French bread is also a popular alternative for Italian beef sandwiches. While it may not be the traditional choice, its crusty exterior and soft interior make it a great option for soaking up the flavorful juices from the beef and toppings. French bread also has a narrower shape than ciabatta, making it easier to handle and eat.
In addition, French bread is widely available and can be found at most bakeries and supermarkets. This makes it a convenient choice for those who may not have access to specialty breads like ciabatta.
It’s worth noting that while French bread may not be the traditional choice for Italian beef sandwiches, it’s still a delicious option that many people enjoy. So if you’re looking to switch things up or can’t find ciabatta, give French bread a try and see how it enhances the flavor of your sandwich.
Hoagie Rolls: A Hearty Option
Hoagie rolls are a great option for those who want a heartier bread for their Italian beef sandwich. These rolls are larger and denser than traditional ciabatta or French rolls, which means they can hold up to even the juiciest and messiest of sandwiches.
One of the benefits of using hoagie rolls is that they provide a substantial base for the sandwich. The bread itself has a slightly chewy texture, which adds to the overall satisfaction of biting into a hearty sandwich. Additionally, hoagie rolls are often toasted or warmed up before being used for an Italian beef sandwich, which adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Another advantage of using hoagie rolls is that they can be filled with more toppings than other types of bread. The larger size and sturdier texture means that you can pile on more meat, cheese, and vegetables without worrying about the bread falling apart.
Sourdough: A Tangy Twist
If you’re looking to add a tangy twist to your Italian beef sandwich, consider using sourdough bread. Sourdough bread is made with a sourdough starter, which gives it a distinct tangy flavor. This flavor pairs well with the rich and savory flavors of the beef and toppings.
Sourdough bread also has a chewy texture and a crispy crust, which makes it a great choice for Italian beef sandwiches. The chewiness of the bread helps to hold the sandwich together, while the crispy crust adds a nice crunch.
To use sourdough bread for your Italian beef sandwich, simply slice it in half and toast it lightly. Then pile on the shredded beef, peppers, giardiniera, and provolone cheese. Top it off with the other half of the bread and enjoy!
Gluten-Free And Other Variations
For those who follow a gluten-free diet, finding the right bread for an Italian beef sandwich can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are many gluten-free bread options available on the market today. Against The Grain Gourmet is one brand that offers a gluten-free French bread that is perfect for Italian beef sandwiches. This bread is frozen and can be heated up in the oven or toaster for a crispy texture.
Other variations of Italian beef sandwiches include different types of cheese and toppings. Provolone cheese is the classic choice, but some people prefer mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor. Toppings like sweet or hot peppers, pickles, and onions can also be added to customize the sandwich to your liking.
Tips For Choosing The Perfect Bread For Your Italian Beef Sandwich.
When choosing the perfect bread for your Italian beef sandwich, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, the bread should be sturdy enough to hold up to the juicy beef and toppings without getting soggy. Ciabatta, French rolls, hoagie rolls, and Italian bread rolls are all great options.
Another important factor to consider is the texture of the bread. Ciabatta has a light and airy texture, while French rolls have a crispy crust and a soft interior. Hoagie rolls are similar to French rolls but have a slightly softer texture, while Italian bread rolls are denser and have a chewy texture.
It’s also important to consider the size of the bread. You want a roll that is large enough to hold all of your toppings without falling apart. If you’re using smaller rolls, you may need to hollow out the bottom slightly to make room for the beef and toppings.
Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your bread choices. You can try different types of rolls or even use a baguette or sourdough bread for a unique twist on the classic Italian beef sandwich. Just be sure to choose a bread that complements the flavors of the beef and toppings without overpowering them.