The Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a beloved American classic that has been satisfying the taste buds of locals and visitors alike in Philadelphia 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’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making a authentic Philly cheesesteak sandwich that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Philadelphia.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the history of the Philly cheesesteak. The origins of this iconic sandwich are disputed, but the most widely accepted story is that it was invented by a South Philadelphia hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri in the 1930s. Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers and construction workers, who would ask him to add cheese to the sandwich. The Philly cheesesteak was born, and it quickly became a staple of the city’s culinary scene.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make a authentic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, you’ll 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, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: ketchup, mustard, pickles, hot peppers
Equipment:
- Large skillet or griddle
- Cutting board
- Meat slicer (optional)
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Spatula
- Tongs
Preparing the Steak
The key to a great Philly cheesesteak is the quality of the steak. You’ll want to use a thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak, preferably from a local butcher or high-end grocery store. If you can’t find thinly sliced steak, you can also use a meat slicer to slice the steak yourself.
Slicing the Steak:
If you’re using a meat slicer, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. If you’re not using a meat slicer, you can also slice the steak by hand using a sharp knife. Slice the steak into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
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, and add a tablespoon of butter to the pan. Once the butter is melted, add the sliced steak to the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking the Onions:
While the steak is cooking, you can also cook the onions. Slice the onions thinly and add them to the pan with the steak. Cook the onions for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re softened and translucent.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that the steak and onions are cooked, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Slice the hoagie rolls in half and place them on a baking sheet. Place a slice of cheese on the bottom half of each roll, followed by a few slices of steak and some sautéed onions.
Melting the Cheese:
Place the baking sheet under the broiler for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Adding Toppings:
Once the cheese is melted, you can add any toppings you like to the sandwich. Some popular toppings include ketchup, mustard, pickles, and hot peppers.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the perfect Philly cheesesteak sandwich:
Using the Right Cheese:
The type of cheese you use can make a big difference in the flavor of the sandwich. Cheez Whiz is a classic choice, but you can also use provolone, mozzarella, or even American cheese.
Adding Other Toppings:
In addition to the classic toppings, you can also add other ingredients to the sandwich to give it more flavor. Some ideas include sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or bacon.
Using a Different Type of Bread:
While hoagie rolls are traditional, you can also use other types of bread to make the sandwich. Some ideas include Italian bread, French bread, or even a crusty baguette.
Conclusion
Making a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and authentic Philly cheesesteak sandwich that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Philadelphia. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just a fan of the sandwich, this guide will help you make the perfect Philly cheesesteak every time.
| 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 |
- Slice the steak into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season the steak with salt and pepper to taste.
What is a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
A traditional Philly cheesesteak 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 cheesesteak 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 to include cheese, onions, and bell peppers.
What type of cheese is best for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
The type of cheese best suited for a Philly cheesesteak 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. Provolone and mozzarella are also popular choices and offer a slightly different flavor profile.
When choosing a cheese for your Philly cheesesteak 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 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 cheesesteak sandwich?
The type of bread best suited for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a crusty, slightly sweet Italian bread, such as a hoagie roll or an Amoroso roll. This type of bread is traditional in Philadelphia and provides a sturdy base for the sandwich. The crusty exterior and soft interior of the bread help to hold the sandwich together and add texture and flavor.
When selecting a bread for your Philly cheesesteak sandwich, look for a bread that is fresh and has a slightly crispy crust. Avoid using a bread that is too dense or heavy, as it can overpower the other flavors in the sandwich. A good hoagie roll or Amoroso roll should be lightly toasted to bring out the flavors and textures of the bread.
How do I slice the steak for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
Slicing the steak for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is an important step in achieving the right texture and flavor. The steak should be sliced thinly, against the grain, to create a tender and easy-to-chew texture. Use a sharp knife to slice the steak into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
When slicing the steak, make sure to slice it against the grain, which means slicing in the direction of the lines of muscle in the meat. This will help to create a tender and easy-to-chew texture. Slice the steak just before assembling the sandwich, as slicing it too far in advance can cause the meat to become tough and dry.
How do I cook the steak for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
Cooking the steak for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a crucial step in achieving the right flavor and texture. The steak should be cooked quickly over high heat to create a crispy exterior and a tender interior. Use a hot skillet or griddle to cook the steak, and cook it for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
When cooking the steak, make sure to use a hot skillet or griddle to achieve a crispy exterior. Add a small amount of oil to the pan to prevent the steak from sticking, and cook the steak over high heat to create a nice sear. 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 cheesesteak sandwich with chicken or other meats?
While traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwiches are made with beef, it is possible to make variations using chicken or other meats. Chicken cheesesteak sandwiches are a popular alternative, and can be made by substituting chicken breast for the beef. Other meats, such as pork or lamb, can also be used to make a Philly cheesesteak sandwich.
When making a Philly cheesesteak sandwich with chicken or other meats, keep in mind that the cooking time and method may vary. Chicken breast, for example, may need to be cooked for a shorter amount of time than beef, and may require a lower heat to prevent drying out. Experiment with different meats and cooking methods to find the combination that works best for you.
How do I assemble a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
Assembling a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a straightforward process that requires a few simple steps. Start by slicing the steak and cooking it in a hot skillet or griddle. While the steak is cooking, toast the bread by grilling it lightly or baking it in the oven. Once the steak is cooked, assemble the sandwich by placing the steak on the bread, followed by the cheese, onions, and bell peppers.
When assembling the sandwich, make sure to add the cheese to the sandwich while the steak is still hot, so that it melts and becomes gooey. Add the onions and bell peppers on top of the cheese, and serve the sandwich hot and toasted. Consider adding other toppings, such as ketchup or hot peppers, to give the sandwich extra flavor and spice.