The Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a beloved American classic that has been satisfying the taste buds of meat lovers for decades. This mouth-watering sandwich, which originated in Philadelphia, typically consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all piled high on a crusty hoagie roll. While it may seem like a daunting task to recreate this iconic sandwich at home, fear not – with the right ingredients and a bit of know-how, you can make a delicious Philly cheesesteak sandwich that rivals those found in the City of Brotherly Love.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to making a Philly cheesesteak sandwich, the quality of the ingredients is paramount. Here are a few key components to focus on:
The Beef
The type of beef used in a Philly cheesesteak is crucial. You’ll want to opt for a thinly sliced cut of beef, such as ribeye or top round. Look for slices that are about 1/16 inch thick – this will ensure that the beef cooks quickly and evenly. If you can’t find pre-sliced beef at your local grocery store, you can also purchase a whole cut of beef and slice it yourself.
Why Ribeye?
Ribeye is a popular choice for Philly cheesesteaks due to its rich flavor and tender texture. The marbling in the meat (the streaks of fat that run throughout) adds a depth of flavor and helps to keep the meat moist as it cooks.
The Cheese
Cheese is a vital component of the Philly cheesesteak, and there are several options to choose from. The most traditional choice is Cheez Whiz, a type of processed cheese spread that melts easily and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich. Other popular options include provolone, white American, and mozzarella.
Why Cheez Whiz?
Cheez Whiz is a classic choice for Philly cheesesteaks due to its ease of use and melted texture. It’s also a nod to the sandwich’s roots – Cheez Whiz has been a staple in Philadelphia for decades.
The Onions
Sautéed onions add a sweet and savory flavor to the Philly cheesesteak. You’ll want to use a sweet onion, such as a Vidalia or a yellow onion, and slice it thinly so that it cooks quickly.
The Hoagie Roll
The hoagie roll is the foundation of the Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Look for a crusty roll with a soft interior – this will provide a nice textural contrast to the sandwich. You can also toast the roll lightly to add crunch.
Cooking the Philly Cheesesteak
Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a delicious Philly cheesesteak sandwich:
Slicing the Beef
If you haven’t already, slice the beef into thin strips. You’ll want to slice it against the grain, which means slicing in the direction of the lines of muscle in the meat. This will help the meat to be more tender and easier to chew.
Heating the Skillet
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want to use a skillet that’s large enough to hold all of the ingredients in a single layer. Add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
Cooking the Beef
Add the sliced beef to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. You’ll want to stir the beef frequently to ensure that it cooks evenly.
Cooking the Onions
Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they’re softened and translucent.
Assembling the Sandwich
To assemble the sandwich, place a few slices of the cooked beef onto the hoagie roll. Add a spoonful of the sautéed onions on top of the beef, followed by a slice or two of cheese. Place the sandwich under the broiler for a minute or two, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your Philly cheesesteak game to the next level:
Using a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer can help you to ensure that the beef is cooked to a safe internal temperature. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be at least 130°F.
Adding Aromatics
Adding aromatics, such as garlic or bell peppers, can add depth and complexity to the sandwich. Simply sauté the aromatics along with the onions and beef.
Using Different Types of Cheese
While Cheez Whiz is a classic choice, you can also experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone and mozzarella are popular options, but you can also try using cheddar or gouda.
Adding Spices
Adding spices, such as paprika or cayenne pepper, can add a boost of flavor to the sandwich. Simply sprinkle the spices over the beef and onions as they cook.
Conclusion
Making a Philly cheesesteak sandwich at home is easier than you think. With the right ingredients and a bit of know-how, you can create a delicious sandwich that rivals those found in the City of Brotherly Love. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just a lover of good food, the Philly cheesesteak is a classic sandwich that’s sure to please. So go ahead, give it a try, and see why this iconic sandwich has been a favorite for decades.
What type of steak is best for a Philly cheesesteak?
The best type of steak for a Philly cheesesteak is thinly sliced ribeye or top round. These cuts of meat are tender, flavorful, and have a good balance of fat and lean meat, which makes them perfect for sautéing. You can also use other types of steak, such as sirloin or flank steak, but ribeye and top round are the most traditional choices.
When selecting a steak, look for one that is at least 1/4 inch thick and has a good marbling of fat throughout. This will help to keep the steak juicy and flavorful as it cooks. You can also ask your butcher to slice the steak thinly for you, or you can slice it yourself at home using a sharp knife.
What type of cheese is best for a Philly cheesesteak?
The best type of cheese for a Philly cheesesteak is Cheez Whiz, a type of processed cheese spread that is made by Kraft Foods. Cheez Whiz has a creamy, melted texture that is perfect for a Philly cheesesteak, and it has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the steak and other ingredients.
However, if you don’t like Cheez Whiz or can’t find it in your area, you can also use other types of cheese, such as provolone, mozzarella, or white American. These cheeses have a similar texture to Cheez Whiz and will melt well when heated. You can also use a combination of cheeses, such as a blend of provolone and mozzarella, for a unique flavor.
What type of bread is best for a Philly cheesesteak?
The best type of bread for a Philly cheesesteak is a crusty, slightly sweet Italian roll, also known as an Amoroso roll. This type of bread is traditional in Philadelphia and is specifically designed to hold up to the juices and fillings of a cheesesteak.
When selecting a bread, look for one that is fresh and has a slightly crispy crust. You can also toast the bread lightly before assembling the cheesesteak to give it a crispy texture. Avoid using a bread that is too dense or heavy, as it can overpower the other ingredients in the cheesesteak.
How do I cook the steak for a Philly cheesesteak?
To cook the steak for a Philly cheesesteak, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Slice the steak into thin strips and add it to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, and cook it to at least 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well. Avoid overcooking the steak, as it can become tough and dry. Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
How do I assemble a Philly cheesesteak?
To assemble a Philly cheesesteak, start by slicing the cooked steak into thin strips and placing it onto the bread. Add a slice or two of cheese, depending on your preference, and place it on top of the steak. Add any additional toppings, such as sautéed onions or bell peppers, and place them on top of the cheese.
Finally, place the other half of the bread on top of the cheesesteak and serve immediately. You can also add a drizzle of ketchup or hot sauce to the cheesesteak for extra flavor. Avoid overloading the cheesesteak with too many toppings, as it can become overwhelming.
Can I make a Philly cheesesteak in advance?
While it’s best to make a Philly cheesesteak fresh, you can make some of the components in advance to save time. For example, you can slice the steak and cheese ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the cheesesteak.
You can also cook the steak and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before assembling the cheesesteak. However, it’s best to assemble the cheesesteak just before serving, as the bread and cheese can become soggy if they’re left to sit for too long.
Can I customize a Philly cheesesteak with different toppings?
Yes, you can customize a Philly cheesesteak with different toppings to suit your taste. Some popular toppings include sautéed onions and bell peppers, mushrooms, and hot peppers. You can also add different types of cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella, or use a combination of cheeses for a unique flavor.
Avoid adding too many toppings, as it can overpower the other ingredients in the cheesesteak. Stick to 2-3 toppings at most, and choose ingredients that complement the steak and cheese. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as a hoagie roll or a sub roll, for a unique twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak.