Crazy Beef Sandwich (Sanduíche de Carne Louca) is a traditional Brazilian comfort food made with slow-cooked, shredded beef seasoned with onions, peppers, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Served inside a soft bread roll, this sandwich is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a satisfying homemade meal.
This Brazilian shredded beef sandwich combines tender, slow-cooked meat with a rich sauce full of vegetables and herbs. The name "Carne Louca" means "Crazy Meat" because of its intense mix of flavors and colorful appearance. It is a popular street food in Brazil and a delicious choice for anyone who loves hearty sandwiches.
Cook Time: 2 hours
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8 sandwiches
Ingredients
For the shredded beef:
- 2.2 lbs (1 kg) beef chuck roast or beef brisket
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced into thin strips
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine or water (optional)
- 3 tablespoons vinegar
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
For serving:
- 8 French rolls or sandwich buns
- Sliced mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
- Pickled vegetables (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the beef
Season the beef with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sear the meat on all sides until browned.
Add half of the onions and garlic, then pour in the beef broth and red wine or water. Add bay leaves, cover, and cook over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the meat becomes very tender.
2. Shred the meat
Remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat.
Reserve the cooking liquid for the sauce.
3. Prepare the flavorful sauce
In the same pot, sauté the remaining onions and peppers until soft. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, vinegar, and the reserved cooking liquid.
Cook for about 15 minutes until the vegetables create a rich and aromatic sauce.
4. Combine everything
Return the shredded beef to the sauce and mix well. Cook for another 10 to 15 minutes so the meat absorbs all the flavors.
Finish with fresh parsley and green onions.
5. Assemble the sandwiches
Slice the bread rolls and fill them generously with the shredded beef mixture. Add mozzarella cheese or fresh toppings if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy this classic Brazilian sandwich.
Cooking Tips 🍽️
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Use a well-marbled cut of beef | Creates a softer and juicier texture |
| Cook slowly over low heat | Allows the meat fibers to break down |
| Prepare the filling one day ahead | The flavors become even stronger |
| Toast the bread lightly | Prevents it from becoming too soggy |
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