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 the perfect Philly cheese steak sandwich.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheese Steak
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the history of the Philly cheese steak. The origins of this sandwich are disputed, but it is widely believed to have been invented in the 1930s by a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri in Philadelphia. Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers, and the sandwich quickly gained popularity. Over time, cheese was added 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 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, uniform 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 and onions 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, uniform 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.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few 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 Toppings:
Consider adding some toppings to your Philly cheese steak sandwich, such as ketchup, mustard, pickles, or hot peppers.
Using a Panini Press:
If you want to get a crispy crust on your hoagie roll, consider using a panini press. Simply place the sandwich in the press and cook until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
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 is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just a fan of the sandwich, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
| Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich Recipe | Servings: 4 |
|---|---|
| Ingredients: | 1 pound thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak, 4 hoagie rolls, 4 slices of cheese, 1 large onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon of butter, Salt and pepper to taste |
| Equipment: | Large skillet or griddle, Cutting board, Knife, Cheese slicer (optional), Meat slicer (optional) |
| Cooking Time: | 10-15 minutes |
| Difficulty: | Easy |
By following this recipe and using a few simple tips and variations, you can create a delicious Philly cheese steak sandwich that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
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 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 options are Cheez Whiz, provolone, and mozzarella. Cheez Whiz is a popular choice because it melts well and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich. Provolone and mozzarella are also good options because they have a mild flavor and melt well.
If you’re looking for a more authentic Philly cheese steak experience, Cheez Whiz is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more traditional cheese, provolone or mozzarella are good alternatives. You can also experiment with other types of cheese, such as cheddar or American, to find the combination 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, also known as a hoagie roll. This type of bread is ideal because it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling without getting soggy, and it has a slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory flavors of the steak and cheese.
When selecting a hoagie roll, look for one that’s fresh and has a slightly crispy crust. You can also toast the roll before assembling the sandwich to give it a crispy texture. Avoid using a soft or fluffy bread, as it will become soggy and fall apart when filled with the juicy steak and cheese.
How do I slice the steak for a Philly cheese steak sandwich?
Slicing the steak thinly is crucial for a Philly cheese steak sandwich. You want to slice the steak against the grain, using a sharp knife, to create thin strips that are easy to chew. The ideal thickness is about 1/8 inch, which will allow the steak to cook quickly and evenly.
To slice the steak, place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm it up. Then, use a sharp knife to slice the steak into thin strips, cutting against the grain. You can also use a meat slicer if you have one. Once you’ve sliced the steak, you’re ready to cook it and assemble the sandwich.
How do I cook the steak for a Philly cheese steak sandwich?
Cooking the steak for a Philly cheese steak sandwich is a matter of quickly sautéing it in a hot pan with some oil and seasonings. You want to cook the steak over high heat, using a small amount of oil, to create a crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
To cook the steak, heat a large skillet or griddle over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Then, add the sliced steak and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked to your desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, which should be at least 130°F for medium-rare.
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 is because the sandwich is best served hot and toasted, with the cheese melted and the steak juicy.
If you need to make the sandwich in advance, you can cook the steak and prepare the filling ahead of time, then assemble the sandwich just before serving. You can also toast the roll and melt the cheese in advance, then assemble the sandwich and serve. However, keep in mind that the sandwich will be best if it’s made fresh.
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’s highly customizable. You can add or subtract ingredients to suit your tastes, and experiment with different types of cheese, meats, and vegetables.
Some popular variations on the classic Philly cheese steak sandwich include adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or jalapeños to the filling, or using different types of cheese or meat. You can also try using a different type of bread, such as a ciabatta or a baguette, to give the sandwich a unique texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination.