Buona Beef, a Chicago institution, is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural experience. And like any cultural experience, it comes with its own unique language. You might hear phrases like “Italian beef,” “sweet peppers,” “hot giardiniera,” and of course, “baptized.” But what does “baptized” actually mean when ordering your Italian beef sandwich at Buona Beef? The answer is simpler than you might think, yet critical to crafting the perfect Chicago-style sandwich.
Decoding the “Baptized” Term
At its core, “baptized” refers to the level of “wetness” you want in your Italian beef sandwich. More specifically, it describes how much au jus, the flavorful beef broth, your sandwich will be drenched in. It’s a crucial element in customizing your order and achieving the precise taste and texture you desire.
The Importance of Au Jus
The au jus is the heart and soul of the Italian beef sandwich. It’s the rich, savory broth created from slowly roasting the beef itself, infused with herbs and spices. The au jus not only adds flavor but also keeps the beef moist and tender. A well-made au jus is essential for a truly authentic Italian beef experience. Without it, the sandwich can become dry and bland.
Beyond “Baptized”: The Spectrum of Wetness
While “baptized” is a common term, it’s not the only way to specify your desired level of au jus. You might also hear these alternatives:
- Dry: This means you want very little au jus on your sandwich. The beef will be slightly moist, but the bread will remain relatively dry.
- Wet: A “wet” sandwich is the standard. The beef is thoroughly soaked in au jus, and the bread will be noticeably saturated.
- Dipped: This is the next level up from “wet.” The entire sandwich, after being assembled, is briefly dipped into the au jus. This results in a very juicy and flavorful sandwich, but it can also be quite messy.
- Extra Dipped: As the name suggests, this is even wetter than “dipped.” The sandwich is submerged in the au jus for a longer period, ensuring maximum saturation. This is for those who truly love the au jus and don’t mind a very soggy (but delicious) sandwich.
Why “Baptized” Matters: Tailoring Your Perfect Sandwich
The level of “wetness” you choose can dramatically alter the overall taste and texture of your Italian beef sandwich. It’s not just about personal preference; it’s about understanding how the au jus interacts with the other ingredients.
The Bread Factor
The type of bread used in an Italian beef sandwich is crucial. It’s typically a sturdy, crusty Italian roll that can withstand the moisture without completely falling apart. However, even the sturdiest roll has its limits. A “baptized” or “dipped” sandwich will soften the bread significantly. Some people love this texture, while others prefer a firmer bite.
Flavor Enhancement
The au jus intensifies the beef flavor and blends with the sweetness of the peppers or the heat of the giardiniera. A “dry” sandwich will allow you to taste the individual components more distinctly, while a “baptized” sandwich will create a more unified and intense flavor profile.
The Mess Factor
Let’s be honest: Italian beef sandwiches can be messy. The more au jus, the messier it gets. If you’re eating on the go or prefer a cleaner eating experience, a “dry” or “wet” sandwich might be a better choice. But if you’re willing to embrace the mess, a “dipped” or “extra dipped” sandwich can be incredibly rewarding.
Buona Beef’s History and the Italian Beef Tradition
To truly appreciate the “baptized” phenomenon, it’s helpful to understand the history of Buona Beef and the Italian beef sandwich itself.
The Origins of Buona Beef
Buona Beef is a family-owned restaurant chain that has been serving Chicago since 1981. Founded by Joe and Peggy Buonavolanto, the restaurant quickly gained popularity for its high-quality Italian beef sandwiches and commitment to family values. Buona Beef has since expanded to multiple locations throughout the Chicago area and beyond, becoming a symbol of Chicago’s culinary identity.
The Evolution of the Italian Beef Sandwich
The Italian beef sandwich has its roots in Chicago’s early 20th-century Italian immigrant community. It’s believed to have originated as a way to stretch out less expensive cuts of beef by slow-roasting them and slicing them thinly. The au jus was created from the roasting process and used to keep the beef moist and flavorful. Over time, the sandwich evolved to include sweet peppers, hot giardiniera, and the various levels of “wetness” we know today.
How to Order Your “Baptized” Italian Beef at Buona Beef
Ordering at Buona Beef can be a bit intimidating for first-timers, but it’s actually quite straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Specify your beef: Start by stating that you want an Italian beef sandwich.
- Choose your toppings: Decide whether you want sweet peppers, hot giardiniera, or both.
- Declare your “wetness”: This is where you use the term “baptized” or one of its alternatives (dry, wet, dipped, extra dipped) to specify how much au jus you want.
- Add cheese (optional): Some Buona Beef locations offer mozzarella or provolone cheese as an additional topping.
- Enjoy! Once you have your sandwich, find a comfortable spot and savor the authentic Chicago flavor.
Buona Beef vs. The Competition: A Matter of Taste
While Buona Beef is a popular choice, it’s not the only place to get an Italian beef sandwich in Chicago. There are many other restaurants and delis that offer their own versions of this classic sandwich. Each establishment has its own unique take on the recipe, from the type of beef used to the blend of spices in the au jus. Some prefer Buona Beef’s subtle flavors and family-friendly atmosphere, while others prefer a more traditional experience from one of the smaller mom-and-pop shops. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
Key Differentiators
Here are some key aspects that differentiate Italian beef establishments:
- Beef Quality: The cut of beef and its preparation can vastly alter the taste and texture of the sandwich.
- Au Jus Recipe: The blend of herbs, spices, and roasting techniques creates a unique flavor profile for each establishment’s au jus.
- Bread Selection: The sturdiness and texture of the bread are crucial for holding up to the au jus.
- Topping Options: The availability and quality of sweet peppers, hot giardiniera, and other toppings can vary significantly.
- Atmosphere: The overall ambiance and customer service can contribute to the overall dining experience.
Mastering the “Baptized” Art: Tips and Tricks
Ordering a “baptized” Italian beef sandwich is more than just saying the word. It’s about understanding the nuances of the process and communicating your preferences effectively.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment
The best way to find your perfect level of “wetness” is to try different options. Start with “wet” and then gradually move towards “dipped” or “extra dipped” if you prefer a soggier sandwich.
Consider Your Eating Environment
If you’re eating in your car or at a public event, a “dry” or “wet” sandwich might be a more practical choice. If you’re sitting at a table with plenty of napkins, you can be more adventurous with the au jus.
Communicate Clearly
If you have any specific preferences, don’t hesitate to communicate them to the person taking your order. For example, you might say, “I want a baptized Italian beef with sweet peppers, but not too much au jus.”
Embrace the Mess
Ultimately, the best Italian beef sandwich is the one that you enjoy the most. Don’t be afraid to get a little messy and savor the authentic Chicago flavor.
Conclusion: “Baptized” is More Than Just a Word
The term “baptized” at Buona Beef is much more than just a word; it’s a gateway to customizing your perfect Italian beef sandwich. It reflects the rich history and culinary traditions of Chicago, and it’s a testament to the importance of personal preference. So, the next time you visit Buona Beef, don’t be afraid to ask for your sandwich “baptized” – you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy this iconic Chicago dish. It’s a key element in unlocking the full potential of this savory experience, allowing you to tailor the flavors and textures to your precise liking. Ultimately, the “baptized” option exemplifies the personalized approach that makes Buona Beef and the Italian beef sandwich such a beloved part of Chicago’s culinary landscape.
What exactly does “Baptized” mean when ordering a Buona Beef sandwich?
Baptized at Buona Beef refers to the level of gravy your Italian Beef sandwich is soaked in. Ordering your sandwich “Baptized” signifies you want the entire sandwich, including the bread, fully submerged in Buona Beef’s signature gravy. This results in an extremely wet and flavorful sandwich, appealing to those who enjoy a truly indulgent experience.
The “Baptized” level is the wettest option available at Buona Beef, exceeding both “Dry” and “Wet.” It’s a step beyond simply having the beef itself drenched in gravy; the entire sandwich becomes infused with the rich flavor, making it a quintessential Chicago-style experience for many patrons.
Is a “Baptized” Buona Beef sandwich very messy to eat?
Yes, a “Baptized” Italian Beef sandwich from Buona Beef is indeed very messy. The bread is completely saturated with gravy, making it quite soft and prone to falling apart. Prepare to use plenty of napkins and potentially a fork and knife to manage the abundance of liquid and the structural instability of the sandwich.
While the messiness is part of the experience, it’s essential to be aware of it beforehand. Consider your eating environment and whether you’re comfortable navigating a sandwich that will likely require a bit of effort to consume cleanly. Some choose to eat it over the wrapping paper to catch drips and minimize the mess.
What’s the difference between “Wet” and “Baptized” at Buona Beef?
The key difference between “Wet” and “Baptized” lies in the degree of gravy saturation. Ordering “Wet” means the beef itself is soaked in gravy before being placed on the bread. The bread is still exposed and retains some of its structural integrity.
“Baptized,” on the other hand, involves fully immersing the entire sandwich, bread and beef, in the gravy. The bread becomes completely saturated, creating a much wetter and more intensely flavored experience compared to “Wet”. It’s the wettest option, ideal for those craving maximum gravy absorption.
Who would typically order their Buona Beef “Baptized?”
Individuals who truly enjoy the flavor of Buona Beef’s gravy and don’t mind a very messy eating experience are likely to order their sandwich “Baptized”. It’s a popular choice for those seeking the most authentic and indulgent Chicago-style Italian Beef experience, prioritizing flavor over neatness.
Furthermore, those who appreciate a very soft texture in their sandwich may also opt for the “Baptized” option. The saturated bread almost melts in your mouth, offering a unique and satisfying sensation that complements the tender beef and flavorful gravy. It’s a preference rooted in both taste and texture.
Can I customize other toppings on a “Baptized” Buona Beef sandwich?
Absolutely! Customizing your “Baptized” Buona Beef sandwich with additional toppings is common and encouraged. You can add sweet peppers, hot giardiniera, or cheese to further enhance the flavor profile and personalize your sandwich to your liking. The “Baptized” designation only refers to the gravy level, not the available toppings.
Be mindful that adding wet toppings like extra giardiniera will contribute to the overall messiness of the sandwich. However, the combination of rich gravy, tender beef, and your favorite toppings can create a truly unforgettable Chicago culinary experience. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavor combinations.
Is the “Baptized” option available for all sizes of Buona Beef sandwiches?
Yes, the “Baptized” option is generally available regardless of the size of your Buona Beef sandwich order. Whether you’re ordering a small, medium, or large, you can request that it be prepared “Baptized,” ensuring that the entire sandwich is fully submerged in gravy.
The price of the sandwich will depend on the size you choose and any additional toppings you add, but the “Baptized” preparation itself does not usually incur an extra charge. It’s simply a matter of specifying your desired level of gravy saturation when placing your order.
Are there any potential drawbacks to ordering a Buona Beef “Baptized?”
The most significant drawback is the extreme messiness. Eating a “Baptized” sandwich can be a challenge, requiring multiple napkins and a willingness to get your hands (and possibly your clothes) a little messy. It might not be the best choice for a formal setting or if you’re looking for a quick and tidy meal.
Another potential drawback is the altered texture of the bread. The completely saturated bread loses its structural integrity and becomes very soft, which may not be to everyone’s liking. If you prefer a sturdier sandwich with a bit of chew, you might consider opting for the “Wet” or “Dry” option instead.