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.
Cooking 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.
Resting the Steak:
Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness.
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 and sauté until they are softened and translucent. This should take about 5 minutes.
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 and add it to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Let the cheese melt and bubble for a few minutes.
Adding the Steak:
Add the cooked steak to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions, garlic, and cheese.
Assembling the Sandwich:
Split the hoagie rolls in half and place them under the broiler for a few minutes to toast. Then, add the steak, onions, garlic, and cheese to the rolls.
Toppings and Variations
The Philly cheese steak sandwich is a versatile sandwich that can be customized to your liking. Here are a few topping ideas:
- Ketchup and mustard: Add a dollop of ketchup and mustard to the sandwich for a classic flavor combination.
- Pickles: Slice up some dill pickles and add them to the sandwich for a tangy crunch.
- Hot peppers: Add some sliced hot peppers to the sandwich for an extra kick of heat.
Conclusion
The Philly cheese steak sandwich is a delicious and iconic American classic that is easy to make and customize to your liking. With this recipe, you can create a mouth-watering sandwich that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and experience the magic of the Philly cheese steak sandwich for yourself.
Additional Tips and Tricks
- Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of the steak, cheese, and bread will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the sandwich.
- Slice the steak thinly: Thinly sliced steak will cook more evenly and be more tender.
- Use a meat slicer: If you have a meat slicer, use it to get even thinner slices of steak.
- Don’t overcook the steak: Cook the steak to your desired level of doneness, but don’t overcook it. Overcooked steak can be tough and dry.
- Add some acidity: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of vinegar can add brightness and balance out the richness of the sandwich.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the steak: Overcooking the steak can make it tough and dry.
- Not slicing the steak thinly: Thick slices of steak can be chewy and difficult to cook evenly.
- Not using high-quality ingredients: Using low-quality ingredients can result in a sandwich that is lacking in flavor and texture.
- Not toasting the bread: Toasting the bread can add crunch and texture to the sandwich.
Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich Variations
- Buffalo chicken Philly cheese steak: Add some shredded buffalo chicken to the sandwich for a spicy twist.
- Veggie Philly cheese steak: Use sliced vegetables such as bell peppers and onions instead of steak.
- Mushroom Philly cheese steak: Add some sautéed mushrooms to the sandwich for an earthy flavor.
- Italian Philly cheese steak: Add some sliced Italian meats such as salami and ham to the sandwich.
Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich Nutrition Information
- Calories: 500-700 per sandwich
- Fat: 20-30g
- Saturated fat: 10-15g
- Cholesterol: 60-80mg
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
- Carbohydrates: 40-60g
- Fiber: 2-4g
- Protein: 30-40g
Note: Nutrition information will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
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!