The Ultimate Beef on Weck Sandwich Recipe by Chef John

1. Season beef with salt and black pepper.

2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook beef roast in hot oil until browned on all sides on each side, 4 to 5 minutes per side. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 125 degrees F (52 degrees C). Transfer beef to a plate to rest.

3. Remove skillet from heat and whisk flour into skillet until flour taste cooks off, about 1 minute. Pour cold beef broth into skillet; place skillet over medium-high heat. Stir balsamic vinegar, black pepper, and any accumulated juices from the roast beef plate into beef broth mixture; cook until jus reduces slightly, about 5 minutes. Season with salt.

4. Slice sirloin as thinly as possible against the grain. Pile meat onto the base of each roll. Spread a thick layer of horseradish on the top bun and place top bun over meat. Serve with jus for dipping.

   

Cook’s Notes:

There are many cuts of beef used for this, including top round, rump roast, and brisket, but I like to use a nice, thick top-sirloin roast. Instead of cooking it in the oven, I like to pan-roast this on the stove top. Since top sirloin roasts are only a couple inches thick, they cook relatively fast. They’re also tender, flavorful, and because of their shape, very easy to slice thinly, which is one of the keys to this amazing sandwich.

Make your own caraway rolls with Chef John’s Kummelweck recipe.