The Ultimate Roast Beef on Focaccia: A Symphony of Simple Flavors

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a sandwich that feels both rustic and refined. I remember stumbling upon a recipe for roast beef on focaccia, tucked away in the yellowed pages of a local newspaper’s weekend supplement, many years ago. It was a simple affair, nothing overly complicated, but the promise of warm, yielding focaccia cradling savory roast beef, crisp bacon, and juicy tomatoes just sang to me. It’s become a staple for casual gatherings, a quick yet impressive lunch, or even a delightful picnic offering. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an experience, a testament to how a few quality ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create something truly memorable.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (assuming cooked turkey bacon is used)
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 1 Focaccia Sandwich
• Dietary Type: Contains Gluten, Dairy (mayonnaise)

Ingredients

This recipe celebrates the beauty of simplicity, letting the quality of each component shine.

• 1 (12 ounce) focaccia bread: Look for a good quality, airy focaccia, perhaps with a hint of rosemary or olive oil baked into the crust.
• 1/2 cup low-fat mayonnaise: This serves as our creamy base, binding the flavors together.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons prepared horseradish: A touch of horseradish adds a welcome zing and cuts through the richness.
• 3/4 – 1 lb sliced roast beef (from deli): Opt for thinly sliced, good quality roast beef. The amount is flexible, depending on how generously you like to pile it on.
• 1 large tomatoes, sliced: Ripe, flavorful tomatoes are key here. Roma or beefsteak varieties work wonderfully.
• 6-8 slices turkey bacon, cooked: Crispy turkey bacon provides a smoky, savory crunch without being too heavy. Ensure it’s cooked to your preferred crispness.
• Lettuce leaf: A crisp lettuce leaf, like romaine or butter lettuce, adds freshness and a pleasing textural contrast.

Equipment Needed

For this straightforward assembly, you’ll only need a few basic kitchen tools:

• A sharp knife for slicing the focaccia and tomatoes.
• A cutting board.
• A small bowl for mixing the mayonnaise and horseradish.
• A spoon or spatula for spreading the mayonnaise mixture.

Instructions

Crafting this delicious roast beef on focaccia is wonderfully uncomplicated. It’s more about careful assembly than complex cooking techniques.

1. Prepare the Focaccia: Begin by taking your 12-ounce focaccia bread. Using a sharp knife, slice the focaccia bread horizontally, as if you were making a large sub sandwich. You want to create two distinct halves – a bottom base and a top lid.

2. Create the Spread: In a small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of low-fat mayonnaise with the 1 1/2 teaspoons of prepared horseradish. Stir these ingredients together until they are thoroughly mixed and well-emulsified. This mixture will form the creamy, zesty layer that enhances all the other components.

3. Assemble the Base: Take the bottom slice of the focaccia. Using a spoon or spatula, spread the mayonnaise and horseradish mixture evenly across the entire cut surface of this bottom half. Ensure you get close to the edges to maximize flavor in every bite.

4. Layer the Fillings: Now comes the exciting part – building the delicious layers!

   • First, arrange the sliced tomatoes over the mayonnaise-covered focaccia. Overlap them slightly for even coverage.
   • Next, add the 6-8 slices of cooked turkey bacon. Distribute them evenly across the tomatoes.
   • Then, generously pile on the 3/4 to 1 lb of sliced roast beef. Don’t be shy; a good amount of roast beef is essential for this sandwich.
   • Finally, place the lettuce leaf (or leaves) on top of the roast beef. This adds a fresh, crisp element.

5. Complete the Sandwich: Carefully place the top half of the focaccia bread onto the assembled fillings. Gently press down to help meld the layers together.

6. Portion and Serve: With your sharp knife, cut the entire focaccia sandwich into 4 servings. This makes it easy to share and handle.

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate this already delightful sandwich, consider these culinary insights:

• Focaccia Choice: The quality of your focaccia is paramount. A freshly baked focaccia with a good crust and an open, airy crumb will make a world of difference. If you find a focaccia studded with olives or herbs, it can add another dimension of flavor.
• Horseradish Kick: The amount of horseradish is a personal preference. If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add a touch more. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, start with the lower end of the range.
• Roast Beef Quality: When purchasing roast beef from the deli, ask for it to be sliced thinly. This allows for better texture and distribution within the sandwich. If you have a roast beef you’ve cooked yourself, thinly slicing it will also work beautifully.
• Tomato Ripeness: Use the ripest, most flavorful tomatoes you can find. A truly ripe tomato will add a burst of juicy sweetness that complements the savory meats. Consider slicing them slightly thicker if they are very juicy to prevent sogginess.
• Bacon Bliss: Ensure your turkey bacon is cooked to a perfect crispness. It should snap when bitten, providing that essential textural contrast. You can cook it ahead of time and have it ready for assembly.
• Lettuce Crispness: Wash and thoroughly dry your lettuce leaves before adding them to the sandwich. Excess moisture can make the bread soggy.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Roast Beef on Focaccia is best enjoyed fresh, when the focaccia is still soft and the fillings are at their peak.

• Serving: Serve immediately after cutting into four portions. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, a cup of hearty soup, or even some crispy potato chips.
• Storage: Due to the fresh ingredients like tomatoes and mayonnaise, this sandwich is not ideal for long-term storage. If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for no more than 1 day. Be aware that the bread may become softer and the tomatoes might release more moisture over time, potentially affecting the texture. It’s best to assemble this just before serving if possible.

Nutritional Information

Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimation and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	216.3 kcal
Calories from Fat	103 kcal
Total Fat	11.5 g	17%
Saturated Fat	3.8 g	18%
Cholesterol	79.2 mg	26%
Sodium	309.6 mg	12%
Total Carbohydrate	2.3 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.6 g	2%
Sugars	1.7 g	6%
Protein	26.3 g	52%

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is fantastic as is, it’s always fun to explore variations:

• Cheese Please: For an extra layer of indulgence, consider adding a slice or two of provolone, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar cheese.
• Herbaceous Twist: Mix some finely chopped fresh chives, parsley, or dill into the mayonnaise mixture for an added herbaceous note.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the mayonnaise, or even a few slices of pickled jalapeños, would be a delicious addition.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the roast beef and turkey bacon for thick slices of roasted portobello mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinegar and soy sauce, and perhaps some grilled halloumi cheese.
• Gluten-Free Focaccia: If you require a gluten-free option, seek out a high-quality gluten-free focaccia bread. Ensure your mayonnaise is also gluten-free.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
A: It’s best to assemble this sandwich just before serving. The tomatoes and mayonnaise can make the focaccia soggy if left for too long.

Q: What kind of roast beef is best?
A: Thinly sliced, good quality deli roast beef is ideal for this recipe.

Q: My focaccia is very crusty, how can I soften it?
A: You can lightly toast the cut sides of the focaccia under a broiler for a minute or two, or warm it gently in a toaster oven before spreading the mayonnaise.

Q: Is low-fat mayonnaise the only option?
A: You can use regular mayonnaise if you prefer. The recipe calls for low-fat for a lighter touch, but full-fat mayonnaise will add richness.

Q: Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer the flavor of regular bacon, simply cook 6-8 slices until crisp and use them in place of the turkey bacon.

Final Thoughts

This Roast Beef on Focaccia is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients, prepared with care, can create a truly satisfying meal. It’s a recipe that’s accessible to all skill levels and always impresses. Whether you’re packing a lunch, hosting a casual get-together, or simply treating yourself to something delicious, this sandwich is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try, and I’m confident it will become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. Don’t hesitate to share your creations and any delightful twists you discover!