Sándwich Beef Recipe

Prep beef and aromatics

Trim any excess fat from the beef and cut into thin slices across the grain (about 1/8–1/4 inch). Thinly slice the onion and mince the garlic. Chop the cilantro and set aside.

Marinate

In a bowl combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, salt, lime juice and 1 teaspoon olive oil. Add the sliced beef and toss to coat. Let marinate 10–20 minutes at room temperature (or refrigerate up to 2 hours).

Cook beef and onions

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring, 3–4 minutes until softened and starting to brown. Push onions to the side and add the marinated beef in a single layer. Let sear without moving for 1 minute, then stir and continue cooking 3–4 more minutes until beef is browned and cooked through. Add minced garlic in the last 30 seconds and stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.

Finish filling

Remove pan from heat, stir in chopped cilantro and extra squeeze of lime if desired. Keep warm while toasting the bread.

In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, minced chipotle (or hot sauce), lime juice and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust spiciness or acidity; refrigerate until ready to assemble.

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) or heat a skillet. If desired, lightly toast the split rolls in the oven for 5–7 minutes or in a dry skillet 1–2 minutes cut-side down until golden.

Spread about 1 tablespoon of spicy mayo on both cut sides of each roll. On the bottom half, layer lettuce leaf, 2–3 slices of tomato, a portion of the warm beef and onions (about 1/4 of the cooked beef per sandwich), pickled jalapeños to taste and cheese if using.

Place the top half of the roll over the filling and press gently. If you prefer melted cheese, place assembled sandwiches on a sheet pan and warm in the oven 3–5 minutes until cheese softens.

Slice each sandwich in half and serve immediately while beef is warm. Offer extra lime wedges and hot sauce on the side.