Buona Beef Tuna Genovese Recipe: A Delicious Italian-American Fusion
A masterful fusion of Italian-American flavors, this sandwich combines tender slow-cooked beef Genovese with a zesty tuna salad and crisp, vibrant toppings. It's a bold, satisfying bite perfect for lunch, dinner, or any special gathering.
Ingredients
For the Genovese Beef:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast (or pre-cooked Italian beef for shortcuts)
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Tuna Salad:
- 1 (5 oz) can high-quality tuna in olive oil, drained
- 1 tbsp capers, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, minced
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
For Assembly:
- 4 crusty Italian rolls or ciabatta
- 4 slices provolone cheese (optional)
- Giardiniera (spicy or mild pickled vegetables)
- Fresh arugula (optional for freshness)
Instructions
Step 1: Slow-Cook the Genovese Beef & Onions
- Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat before searing the beef. After adding salt and pepper to the meat, sear it for four to five minutes on each side, or until it is browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Add the celery, carrots, and onions to the same pot and caramelize them. Cook on low heat for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized.
- Deglaze & simmer: Add garlic, then pour in white wine (if using) to scrape up browned bits. Put the beef back in the pot, add the bay leaf and beef broth, cover, and simmer on low for two and a half to three hours, or until the steak shreds easily.
- Shred the beef: Take the steak out and use forks to shred it, then add it back to the onion sauce. Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes to thicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Tuna Salad
In a bowl, combine:
- Drained tuna
- Chopped capers
- Minced parsley
- Lemon juice
- Garlic
- Mayonnaise (if using)
- Stir thoroughly, then chill until you're ready to use it.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- Toast the bread: Slice rolls and lightly toast them for crunch.
- Layer the beef: Cover the bottom half with a thick layer of onion sauce and shredded beef.
- Add the tuna mixture: Top the steak with a dollop of tuna salad.
- Melt the cheese (optional): Add provolone and broil for 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
- Top with giardiniera & greens: Finish with pickled veggies and arugula for freshness.