Deli-Style Roast Beef: A Game-Changer for Sandwich Lovers
Deli-style roast beef at home is a game-changer for sandwich enthusiasts. Not only does it save money, typically costing around $16 per pound at the deli, but it also allows you to customize flavors and achieve that perfect pink hue throughout. Following a few simple steps ensures that your roast is tender, juicy, and ideal for sandwiches.
Essential Ingredients for Deli-Style Roast Beef
- 1 (3-4 lb) beef roast (eye of round or similar)
- Worcestershire sauce
- Angry BBQ salt, pepper, and garlic rub
Equipment Needed for Smoking
- Smoker or Pellet Grill (e.g., Camp Chef Woodwind Pro)
- Wood Pellets (I recommend Bear Mtn BBQ Savory)
- Reliable meat thermometer (e.g., ThermoWorks RFX wireless)
- Meat slicer for thin slices
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
- A sharp knife for trimming
Step-by-Step Guide to Prepare Perfect Deli-Style Roast Beef
1. Trim the Beef Roast
- Remove any silver skin or excess fat.
- Pat the roast dry with paper towels.
2. Season the Beef Roast
- Coat the roast with Worcestershire sauce.
- Generously apply Angry BBQ salt, pepper, and garlic rub.
- Let it rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes.
3. Smoking the Roast Beef
- Preheat your smoker or pellet grill to 250°F.
- Insert the meat thermometer into the center of the roast.
- Place the roast directly on the grates.
- Smoke until the internal temperature reaches 125°F, usually around 2 hours.
- Avoid flipping or rotating during cooking.
4. Let the Roast Beef Rest
- Wrap the roast tightly in foil as soon as you remove it from the smoker.
- If serving hot, let it rest for 1 hour; for cold serving, refrigerate for 3 hours before slicing.
5. Slice the Deli-Style Roast Beef
For a true deli-style presentation, slice the roast thinly against the grain using a quality meat slicer. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife will suffice, although thinner slices yield a better taste and texture. The ideal roast beef has a bright pink interior, making it perfect for sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic French Dip Sandwich served with Au Jus
- Roast Beef and Cheddar Sandwich
Recipe Variations
- Traditional Roast Beef: Use a 250°F oven instead of a smoker, flavored with rosemary and thyme.
- Peppered Roast Beef: Increase pepper in the rub and add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
- Herb-Crusted Roast Beef: Incorporate fresh basil, thyme, and rosemary with the rub and substitute olive oil for Worcestershire sauce.
