If you’ve ever visited Chicago, chances are you’ve heard of Portillo’s. Founded in 1963 by Dick Portillo, the restaurant chain has become a staple of the city’s food scene, known for its classic Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and more. But perhaps the most iconic item on the menu is the Portillo’s Big Beef sandwich. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes this sandwich so special and why it’s a must-try for any foodie visiting the Windy City.
Table of Contents
What is Portillo’s Big Beef?
The Big Beef sandwich is a classic Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich, made with thinly sliced roast beef that’s been slow-cooked in a seasoned broth until it’s tender and juicy. The beef is then piled high on a soft French roll and topped with sweet peppers or hot giardiniera, a spicy pickled vegetable mix. The sandwich can also be ordered with melted cheese, if desired.
What Makes It So Special?
The secret to the Big Beef’s deliciousness lies in the beef itself. Portillo’s uses high-quality cuts of beef that are slow-cooked for hours until they’re incredibly tender and flavorful. The seasoning mix used in the broth is also a closely guarded secret, but it’s said to include a blend of spices and herbs that give the beef its signature taste.
Another key factor in the sandwich’s appeal is the bread. Portillo’s French rolls are soft and chewy, with just the right amount of crustiness to hold up to the juicy beef and toppings. The sweet peppers and giardiniera add a burst of flavor and texture to the sandwich, with the giardiniera providing a spicy kick that’s not for the faint of heart.
Where Can You Find It?
Portillo’s has dozens of locations across the Midwest, with the majority located in the Chicago area. You can also order the Big Beef sandwich online for delivery or pick-up through the Portillo’s website or various food delivery apps.
What Do People Think?
The response to Portillo’s Big Beef has been overwhelmingly positive, with many people calling it the best Italian beef sandwich in Chicago (which is high praise, considering the city’s love for this sandwich). Visitors and locals alike rave about the tender, flavorful beef and the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors from the peppers and giardiniera.
FAQs
What is the nutritional information for Portillo’s Big Beef?
While the Big Beef sandwich is undoubtedly delicious, it’s not exactly a health food. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information for a regular-sized sandwich with sweet peppers:
| Calories | 810 |
| Total Fat | 35g |
| Saturated Fat | 16g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 2,170mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 68g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 9g |
| Protein | 44g |
As you can see, this sandwich packs quite a punch in terms of calories, fat, and sodium. If you’re watching your diet, it’s probably best to enjoy a Big Beef sandwich as an occasional treat rather than a regular meal.
What’s the best way to order a Big Beef sandwich?
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to Italian beef sandwiches, but here are a few tips for ordering a Big Beef at Portillo’s:
- Ask for your beef “dipped” or “wet” for an extra juicy sandwich.
- Order your sandwich with hot giardiniera for a spicy kick.
- Get it “maxed” with melted cheese and extra sweet peppers for a truly indulgent experience.
Is the Big Beef sandwich gluten-free?
Unfortunately, the French rolls used for the Big Beef sandwich are not gluten-free, so this sandwich is off-limits for anyone with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. However, Portillo’s does offer a gluten-free bun for their burgers and sandwiches, so you can still enjoy some of their other menu items.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a lifelong Chicagoan or just visiting for the first time, a trip to Portillo’s for a Big Beef sandwich is a must. This classic sandwich is a true representation of Chicago’s food culture and is sure to leave you feeling satisfied and full (if not a little bit stuffed). Just be sure to bring your appetite and a healthy dose of napkins!
