The Philly steak sandwich, also known as the Philadelphia cheesesteak, is a mouth-watering dish that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This iconic sandwich consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, sautéed with onions and bell peppers, and served on a hoagie roll with melted cheese. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making a delicious Philly steak sandwich that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family.
History of the Philly Steak Sandwich
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the history of the Philly steak sandwich. The origins of this sandwich date back to the 1930s, when a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers in Philadelphia. Olivieri’s hot dog stand eventually became a restaurant, and his steak sandwich gained popularity among locals and visitors alike.
The Evolution of the Philly Steak Sandwich
Over the years, the Philly steak sandwich has undergone several transformations. In the 1940s, a restaurateur named Steve Prince added cheese to the sandwich, which became a staple ingredient. Today, the Philly steak sandwich is a beloved dish that can be found in restaurants and food trucks across the United States.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make a delicious Philly steak sandwich, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1 pound thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 large bell peppers, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 4 slices cheese (such as Cheez Whiz or provolone)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- A large skillet or griddle
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
- A cheese slicer (optional)
Choosing the Right Cheese
When it comes to choosing the right cheese for your Philly steak sandwich, there are several options to consider. Cheez Whiz is a popular choice, as it melts easily and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich. Provolone cheese is another popular option, as it has a mild flavor and a smooth texture. You can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, but Cheez Whiz and provolone are the most traditional choices.
Preparing the Steak
Before you start cooking the steak, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here’s how:
Slicing the Steak
To slice the steak, place it on a cutting board and slice it against the grain into thin strips. You can use a sharp knife or a meat slicer to get the job done. Make sure to slice the steak evenly, so that it cooks consistently.
Seasoning the Steak
Once you’ve sliced the steak, season it with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder or paprika, but salt and pepper are the most traditional choices.
Cooking the Steak
Now that the steak is prepared, it’s time to cook it. Here’s how:
Heating the Skillet
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
Adding the Steak
Add the sliced steak to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be at least 130°F (54°C).
Adding the Onions and Bell Peppers
Once the steak is cooked, add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that the steak and vegetables are cooked, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s how:
Buttering the Hoagie Rolls
Butter the hoagie rolls on the inside and outside. This will help the cheese melt evenly and add flavor to the sandwich.
Adding the Steak and Vegetables
Add the cooked steak and vegetables to the hoagie rolls. Make sure to add the steak and vegetables evenly, so that each sandwich has a similar amount of filling.
Adding the Cheese
Add a slice of cheese to each sandwich. You can use a cheese slicer to slice the cheese thinly, or you can simply place a slice of cheese on top of the steak and vegetables.
Melting the Cheese
Place the sandwiches under the broiler for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also use a panini press or a grill to melt the cheese.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the perfect Philly steak sandwich:
Using Different Types of Cheese
As mentioned earlier, Cheez Whiz and provolone are the most traditional cheeses used in Philly steak sandwiches. However, you can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar.
Adding Other Toppings
You can add other toppings to your Philly steak sandwich, such as sautéed mushrooms or jalapeños. Just be sure to add them in moderation, so that they don’t overpower the other flavors in the sandwich.
Using Different Types of Bread
While hoagie rolls are the most traditional bread used in Philly steak sandwiches, you can also use other types of bread, such as Italian bread or French bread. Just be sure to choose a bread that is sturdy enough to hold the filling.
Conclusion
Making a delicious Philly steak sandwich is easier than you think. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a mouth-watering sandwich that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, cook the steak to the right temperature, and add the right amount of cheese and toppings. With a little practice, you’ll be making Philly steak sandwiches like a pro!
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak | 1 pound |
| Large onion | 1 |
| Large bell peppers | 2 |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Hoagie rolls | 4 |
| Cheese | 4 slices |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
- Prepare the steak by slicing it against the grain into thin strips.
- Cook the steak in a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, adding the onions and bell peppers towards the end of cooking.
What is a traditional Philly steak sandwich?
A traditional Philly 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. The sandwich is often associated with the city of Philadelphia and is a popular dish in many restaurants and eateries throughout the city.
The traditional Philly steak sandwich is made with a specific type of beef, known as ribeye or top round, which is sliced into thin strips and cooked on a griddle or grill. The onions and bell peppers are sautéed with the beef, adding a sweet and crunchy texture to the sandwich. The hoagie roll is typically a crusty Italian roll that is lightly toasted to add crunch and texture to the sandwich.
What type of cheese is best for a Philly steak sandwich?
The type of cheese that is best for a Philly steak sandwich is a matter of personal preference. However, some popular cheese options include Cheez Whiz, provolone, and mozzarella. Cheez Whiz is a classic choice for Philly steak sandwiches, as it melts well and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich.
Provolone and mozzarella are also popular cheese options, as they melt well and add a rich, buttery flavor to the sandwich. Some people also like to use a combination of cheeses, such as Cheez Whiz and provolone, to create a unique flavor profile. Ultimately, the type of cheese that is best for a Philly steak sandwich is the one that you enjoy the most.
How do I slice the beef for a Philly steak sandwich?
Slicing the beef for a Philly steak sandwich is an important step in creating a delicious and authentic sandwich. The beef should be sliced into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. This will help the beef cook evenly and quickly, and will also make it easier to chew.
To slice the beef, use a sharp knife and slice against the grain. This will help to create tender and flavorful strips of beef. You can also use a meat slicer to slice the beef, if you have one. Simply place the beef on the slicer and adjust the thickness to 1/4 inch.
What is the best way to cook the beef for a Philly steak sandwich?
The best way to cook the beef for a Philly steak sandwich is to use a griddle or grill. This will help to create a crispy crust on the outside of the beef, while keeping the inside tender and juicy. To cook the beef, heat a griddle or grill over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beef, and cook to at least 135°F for medium-rare.
Can I use frozen steak for a Philly steak sandwich?
While it is possible to use frozen steak for a Philly steak sandwich, it is not recommended. Frozen steak can be tough and lacking in flavor, which can negatively impact the overall quality of the sandwich.
If you do choose to use frozen steak, make sure to thaw it first and pat it dry with paper towels before slicing and cooking. This will help to remove excess moisture and create a more tender and flavorful sandwich. However, for the best results, it is recommended to use fresh steak.
How do I assemble a Philly steak sandwich?
Assembling a Philly steak sandwich is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients. To assemble the sandwich, start by slicing the hoagie roll in half and toasting it lightly. This will help to add crunch and texture to the sandwich.
Next, add a layer of cheese to the bottom half of the roll, followed by a layer of sautéed onions and bell peppers. Then, add the sliced beef on top of the vegetables, and finish with the top half of the roll. You can also add additional toppings, such as ketchup or hot peppers, to create a unique flavor profile.
Can I customize a Philly steak sandwich to suit my tastes?
Yes, you can customize a Philly steak sandwich to suit your tastes. While the traditional Philly steak sandwich is made with beef, onions, and bell peppers, you can add or substitute different ingredients to create a unique flavor profile.
Some popular customization options include adding mushrooms, jalapenos, or bacon to the sandwich. You can also use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or American, or add a sauce, such as marinara or ranch dressing. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to find your perfect Philly steak sandwich.