Boston's Famous Roast Beef Sandwiches: Jr. Beef and Super Beef

Introduction:

Boston's iconic roast beef sandwiches, known as Jr. Beef and Super Beef, have captured the hearts and taste buds of locals in the area. In this recipe card, we'll guide you through the process of recreating these beloved sandwiches, highlighting the distinctive ingredients and flavors that make them so popular. Prepare to experience the deliciousness of thinly shaved roast beef, James River BBQ sauce (or a suitable alternative), and the perfect combination of toppings that make these sandwiches a Bostonian delight.

I. The Boston Roast Beef Sandwich Tradition:

Roast beef sandwiches have become a beloved part of Boston's culinary landscape. Originating in local roast beef joints, these sandwiches are renowned for their tender, thinly sliced roast beef and signature toppings. Bostonians have a particular affinity for the "three-way" combination of sauce, mayo, and cheese, elevating the sandwich’s flavor profile.

II. Ingredients and Assembly:

Ingredients:

• Thinly shaved top round warm (Microwave for 30 seconds) roast beef (rare)

• Jr. Beef:

  • Regular hamburger roll

  • James River BBQ sauce (or spicy BBQ sauce)

  • Mayonnaise

  • Cheese (American)

• Super Beef:

  • Large onion roll

  • James River BBQ sauce (or spicy BBQ sauce)

  • Mayonnaise

  • Cheese (American)

Instructions:

1. Begin by procuring thinly shaved top-round roast beef from your local deli. Ask them to slice it super thin, preferably rare, to achieve the best texture and flavor.

2. For the Jr. Beef sandwich, use a regular hamburger roll. For the Super Beef sandwich, opt for a large onion roll, which adds an extra layer of flavor.

3. On the top of the roll, spread a layer of mayonnaise.

4. 1 peice of American cheese on the bottom bun

5. Place 8oz of thinly shaved roast beef on top of the American cheese side of the roll.

6. Pour a healthy amount of James River BBQ Sauce over the warm, Rare Roast Beef. (It’s a messy sandwich, Don’t be shy)

7. Carefully place the bun on top.

8. Repeat the steps to make as many Jr. Beef and Super Beef sandwiches as desired.

9. Serve the sandwiches with your favorite accompaniments, such as pickles or a side of potato chips.

Note:

James River BBQ sauce is typically available only to restaurants and may not be easily accessible to the general public. If you can't find it, use a spicy BBQ sauce instead to replicate the distinctive flavor profile.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the authentic flavors of Boston's famous roast beef sandwiches, the Jr. Beef and Super Beef. These sandwiches, with their thinly shaved top round roast beef, James River BBQ sauce (or suitable alternative), and choice of cheese, encapsulate the essence of Boston's roast beef tradition. As you take a bite, savor the tender beef, tangy sauce, and creamy mayo, all nestled within a roll that adds its own unique touch. Whether you enjoy a Jr. Beef or go all-in with a Super Beef, these sandwiches are a culinary delight that pays homage to Boston's love affair with roast beef.