The Philly cheese steak sandwich is a beloved American classic that has been satisfying the taste buds of people for decades. This mouth-watering sandwich consists of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all piled high on a crusty roll. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making a delicious Philly cheese steak sandwich that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the history of this iconic sandwich. The Philly cheese steak sandwich originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the 1930s. According to legend, a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers. One day, a customer asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly cheese steak was born.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make a delicious Philly cheese steak sandwich, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 4 slices of cheese (such as Cheez Whiz, provolone, or mozzarella)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: ketchup, mustard, pickles, and hot peppers
Equipment:
- Large skillet or griddle
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Meat slicer (optional)
Preparing the Steak
The key to a great Philly cheese steak sandwich is the quality of the steak. You want to use a thinly sliced cut of beef that is tender and flavorful. Ribeye or top round steak works well for this recipe.
Slicing the Steak:
To slice the steak, you will need a sharp knife and a cutting board. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. You can also use a meat slicer to get even thinner slices.
Seasoning the Steak:
Once the steak is sliced, season it with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add any other seasonings you like, such as garlic powder or paprika.
Cooking the Steak
Now that the steak is sliced and seasoned, it’s time to cook it. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt.
Searing the Steak:
Add the sliced steak to the skillet and sear it for 1-2 minutes on each side. You want to get a nice brown crust on the steak.
Cooking the Steak to Desired Doneness:
After searing the steak, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook it to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be at least 130°F.
Preparing the Onions and Garlic
While the steak is cooking, you can start preparing the onions and garlic. Slice the onion into thin strips and mince the garlic.
Sautéing the Onions and Garlic:
Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the skillet with the steak. Cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that the steak, onions, and garlic are cooked, it’s time to assemble the sandwich.
Adding the Cheese:
Slice the cheese into thin strips. You can use a cheese slicer to get even thinner slices.
Assembling the Sandwich:
To assemble the sandwich, place a few slices of the cooked steak onto the hoagie roll. Add a few slices of cheese on top of the steak. Then, add a spoonful of the sautéed onions and garlic on top of the cheese.
Adding Optional Toppings
If you want to add some extra flavor to your Philly cheese steak sandwich, you can add some optional toppings. Some popular toppings include ketchup, mustard, pickles, and hot peppers.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the perfect Philly cheese steak sandwich:
Using Different Types of Cheese:
While Cheez Whiz is the traditional cheese used in Philly cheese steak sandwiches, you can also use other types of cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella.
Adding Some Spice:
If you like a little heat in your sandwich, you can add some hot peppers or red pepper flakes to the steak and onions.
Using a Panini Press:
If you want to get a crispy crust on your sandwich, you can use a panini press to grill the sandwich.
Conclusion
Making a delicious Philly cheese steak sandwich is easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a sandwich that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just a fan of the sandwich, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak | 1 pound |
| Hoagie rolls | 4 |
| Cheese (such as Cheez Whiz, provolone, or mozzarella) | 4 slices |
| Large onion | 1 |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
By following this recipe and using the tips and variations provided, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect Philly cheese steak sandwich. So go ahead, give it a try, and taste the deliciousness for yourself!
What is a traditional Philly cheese steak sandwich?
A traditional Philly cheese steak sandwich is a type of sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It typically consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, sautéed with onions and bell peppers, and served on a hoagie roll with melted cheese. The cheese is usually Cheez Whiz, provolone, or mozzarella, and the sandwich is often served hot and toasted.
The traditional Philly cheese steak sandwich is a staple of Philadelphia cuisine and is often associated with the city’s rich history and culture. The sandwich is said to have been invented in the 1930s by a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri, who began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers. Over time, the sandwich gained popularity and evolved into the delicious and iconic dish we know today.
What type of cheese is best for a Philly cheese steak sandwich?
The type of cheese best suited for a Philly cheese steak sandwich is a matter of personal preference. However, the most traditional and popular cheese options are Cheez Whiz, provolone, and mozzarella. Cheez Whiz is a classic choice and is often considered the most authentic option, while provolone and mozzarella offer a slightly different flavor profile.
When choosing a cheese for your Philly cheese steak sandwich, consider the flavor and texture you want to achieve. Cheez Whiz has a creamy, processed flavor that melts well and adds a rich, velvety texture to the sandwich. Provolone and mozzarella, on the other hand, have a more natural flavor and a slightly firmer texture. Experiment with different cheese options to find the one that works best for you.
What type of bread is best for a Philly cheese steak sandwich?
The type of bread best suited for a Philly cheese steak sandwich is a crusty, slightly sweet Italian roll, often referred to as a hoagie roll. This type of bread is ideal because it provides a sturdy base for the sandwich and can hold up to the juices and fillings without becoming soggy.
When selecting a bread for your Philly cheese steak sandwich, look for a roll that is lightly toasted and has a slightly crispy crust. This will help to add texture and flavor to the sandwich. You can also consider using a Amoroso roll, which is a type of Italian roll that is specifically designed for Philly cheese steak sandwiches.
How do I thinly slice the steak for a Philly cheese steak sandwich?
To thinly slice the steak for a Philly cheese steak sandwich, you will need a sharp knife and a cutting board. Start by freezing the steak for about 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to slice. Then, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
It’s also important to slice the steak in a consistent manner, so that all of the slices are roughly the same size and thickness. This will help to ensure that the steak cooks evenly and that the sandwich is balanced. You can also consider using a meat slicer or having your butcher slice the steak for you.
How do I cook the steak for a Philly cheese steak sandwich?
To cook the steak for a Philly cheese steak sandwich, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Then, add the sliced steak to the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
It’s also important to cook the steak in batches, so that it has enough room to cook evenly. You can also consider adding sliced onions and bell peppers to the pan with the steak, which will add flavor and texture to the sandwich. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, and cook it to your desired level of doneness.
Can I make a Philly cheese steak sandwich in advance?
While it’s possible to make a Philly cheese steak sandwich in advance, it’s best to assemble and cook the sandwich just before serving. This will help to ensure that the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted, and that the sandwich is served hot and fresh.
If you need to make the sandwich in advance, you can consider cooking the steak and preparing the toppings ahead of time. Then, assemble the sandwich just before serving and cook it in a pan or under the broiler until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Can I customize a Philly cheese steak sandwich to suit my tastes?
One of the best things about a Philly cheese steak sandwich is that it can be customized to suit your tastes. Consider adding your favorite toppings, such as sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or bacon, to give the sandwich a unique flavor.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, or try using a different type of bread, such as a baguette or ciabatta. The key is to find a combination of ingredients that you enjoy and that work well together. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things – it’s all part of the fun of making a Philly cheese steak sandwich!