How to Cook Shaved Beef for Delicious Sandwiches: The Ultimate Guide

Shaved beef sandwiches are a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. With thinly sliced, tender beef and flavorful toppings piled high, these sandwiches are sure to please. But cooking shaved beef properly is key to creating the perfect sandwich. Follow this complete guide to learn the best techniques for cooking shaved beef and assembling incredible sandwiches every time.

Selecting the Right Cut of Beef

The first step is choosing the right cut of beef for shaving Here are some top options

• Sirloin – A lean and budget-friendly choice. Ensure it is trimmed of excess fat and sinew before shaving.

• Ribeye – This well-marbled cut provides great flavor and tenderness. Have your butcher slice it thinly against the grain.

• Flank steak – When sliced against the grain, flank steak can be budget-friendly. It has a distinct beefy flavor.

• Top or bottom round – Very lean so slice it paper-thin. Cut against the grain for maximum tenderness.

No matter the cut, choose beef that is bright red and well marbled for the best results. For convenience, many grocery stores now sell packs of presliced shaved steak.

Proper Shaving and Slicing Technique

If you need to slice the beef yourself, here are some tips:

• Partially freeze the beef for 30-60 minutes to firm it up for easier slicing.

• Use a sharp knife to cut very thin slices against the grain of the meat. Aim for 1/8 inch thick or less.

• If cutting a sirloin tip or round steak, try “chipping” away slices by cutting at an angle.

• Consistent slices are key for even cooking. Discard or repurpose any uneven slices.

Take your time with slicing to end up with uniform pieces of shaved beef. This ensures the meat cooks quickly and evenly.

Seasoning the Shaved Beef

Seasoning is what takes shaved beef from bland to bold. Consider these seasoning ideas:

• Salt and pepper – This classic combo is a must for enhancing flavor. Be generous.

• Garlic powder – Its savory aroma adds depth without overpowering.

• Onion powder – A bit of subtle onion flavor can really wake up the beef.

• Worcestershire sauce – The umami accent of Worcestershire is perfect on shaved beef.

• Soy sauce – Just a dash adds salty flavor. Opt for low-sodium if avoiding too much salt.

• BBQ dry rub – For a touch of smoky sweetness, try a barbecue-style blend.

Taste the raw seasoned beef to ensure the flavors are balanced before cooking. Adjust seasonings as needed.

Choosing the Best Cooking Method

The cooking method greatly impacts the flavor and texture of shaved beef. Consider these options:

• Pan-searing – This is the most common and foolproof cooking method. Use a cast iron or nonstick pan over high heat with a touch of oil. Cook the beef in batches if needed to get an even sear.

• Grilling – If you want smoky charred bits, grill the beef over direct high heat, continually flipping. Ensure the grill is thoroughly cleaned and oiled first.

• Griddling – Cook on a flat griddle to mimic diner-style flavor. Use a little oil and keep the beef moving as it cooks.

• Slow cooker – For ultra-tender beef, layer ingredients in a slow cooker with 1/4 cup broth. Cook on low 4-6 hours.

No matter the cooking method, watch the beef closely since shaved beef cooks very quickly. About 1-3 minutes per side is usually perfect.

Choosing Buns and Toppings

While the shaved beef is the star, choosing the right companions is key too.

Buns: Go for soft rolls or sub-style buns. Some good options are:

• Italian rolls
• Hoagie rolls
• French rolls
• Ciabatta rolls
• Soft Kaiser rolls

Lightly toasting the buns in butter or olive oil makes them nicely golden and crisp.

Toppings: Get creative with tasty toppings! Consider:

• Melted cheese (provolone, cheddar, Swiss, etc.)
• Caramelized onions
• Roasted peppers
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Lettuce, tomato, pickles
• Condiments like mayo, mustard, or ketchup

Stack up your favorite ingredients but be strategic so flavors are balanced. Spread condiments on both bun halves to prevent sogginess.

Helpful Serving Suggestions

What pairs well with these tasty sandwiches? Here are some ideas:

• Shoestring fries or tater tots
• Potato chips or pretzels
• Pickles, olives, or pickled veggies
• Pasta salad or potato salad
• Hearty soup like minestrone or chili
• Fresh fruit like pineapple slices or grapes

A crisp pale ale or lager makes a nice beverage pairing too. Get creative with sides and drinks to round out the meal.

Safely Storing Leftovers

Like any meat, properly storing leftover shaved beef is important. Follow these guidelines:

• Let sandwiches cool completely before refrigerating.

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.

• Use leftover beef and toppings within 3-4 days.

• Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat.

With proper storage, leftovers can be safely enjoyed for days after cooking. Simply assemble into sandwiches as needed.

Key Takeaways for Delicious Shaved Beef

Cooking up incredible shaved beef sandwiches is easy when you follow these tips:

• Choose well-marbled cuts like sirloin, ribeye or flank steak.

• Slice the beef paper-thin against the grain for tenderness.

• Season boldly with salt, pepper, garlic, Worcestershire, etc.

• Use high heat to quickly sear the exterior while leaving the interior juicy.

• Pile the beef generously on soft toasted buns.

• Add cheese plus veggies, condiments, and other toppings.

• Pair with comforting sides like fries, chips, or potato salad.

• Refrigerate leftovers promptly and safely enjoy for days after.

With the right techniques, ingredients, and enthusiasm, you can now create the ultimate shaved beef sandwiches at home. Experiment until you craft your signature masterpiece!