The Philly sandwich, also known as the Philadelphia cheesesteak, is a mouth-watering dish that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It typically consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all served on a crusty roll. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making a delicious Philly sandwich that will satisfy your taste buds.
Understanding the History and Evolution of the Philly Sandwich
The Philly sandwich has a rich history that dates back to the 1930s. According to legend, the sandwich was invented by a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri, who began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers. The drivers loved the sandwich, and soon, Olivieri’s hot dog stand became a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Over time, the Philly sandwich evolved to include cheese, which was added by Olivieri’s rival, Geno Vento. Vento’s restaurant, Pat’s King of Steaks, still serves some of the best Philly sandwiches in the city. Today, the Philly sandwich is enjoyed not only in Philadelphia but also all over the world.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
To make a delicious Philly sandwich, you need to choose the right ingredients. Here are some tips to help you select the best ingredients:
Meat
The meat is the star of the show in a Philly sandwich. You can use either ribeye or top round steak, but ribeye is preferred because of its tenderness and flavor. Look for thinly sliced steak, preferably 1/4 inch thick. You can also use frozen steak, but fresh steak is always better.
Why Ribeye Steak is the Best Choice
Ribeye steak is the best choice for a Philly sandwich because of its marbling, which is the intramuscular fat that is dispersed throughout the meat. The marbling adds flavor and tenderness to the steak, making it perfect for a Philly sandwich.
Cheese
Cheese is an essential component of a Philly sandwich. You can use either Cheez Whiz or provolone cheese, but Cheez Whiz is the traditional choice. Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese spread that is made from a blend of natural cheese, milk, and whey. It has a creamy texture and a mild flavor that complements the steak perfectly.
Why Cheez Whiz is the Best Choice
Cheez Whiz is the best choice for a Philly sandwich because of its creamy texture and mild flavor. It melts easily and adds a richness to the sandwich that is hard to beat.
Onions
Onions are a crucial component of a Philly sandwich. You can use either raw or sautéed onions, but sautéed onions are preferred because of their sweetness and depth of flavor. Look for yellow onions, which are sweeter than white onions.
Why Sautéed Onions are the Best Choice
Sautéed onions are the best choice for a Philly sandwich because of their sweetness and depth of flavor. They add a richness to the sandwich that is hard to beat.
Rolls
The roll is the foundation of a Philly sandwich. You can use either a hoagie roll or a Italian roll, but a hoagie roll is preferred because of its crustiness and texture. Look for a roll that is lightly toasted and has a soft interior.
Why a Hoagie Roll is the Best Choice
A hoagie roll is the best choice for a Philly sandwich because of its crustiness and texture. It provides a sturdy base for the sandwich and adds a nice crunch to each bite.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that you have chosen the right ingredients, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you assemble the perfect Philly sandwich:
Step 1: Slice the Steak
Slice the steak into thin strips, preferably 1/4 inch thick. You can use a meat slicer or a sharp knife to slice the steak.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Sauté the onions in a pan with some oil until they are soft and translucent. You can add some salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Cook the steak in a pan with some oil until it is browned and cooked to your liking. You can add some salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
Assemble the sandwich by placing the steak on the roll, followed by the sautéed onions and cheese. You can add some ketchup or mustard if you like.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the perfect Philly sandwich:
Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients to ensure that your sandwich tastes great.
- Cook the steak to your liking, whether it’s rare, medium rare, or well done.
- Use a thermometer to ensure that the cheese is melted to perfection.
- Add some ketchup or mustard to give the sandwich a tangy flavor.
Variations
- Add some bell peppers or mushrooms to give the sandwich a crunchy texture.
- Use different types of cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella.
- Add some hot peppers to give the sandwich a spicy kick.
- Use a different type of meat, such as chicken or pork.
Conclusion
Making a delicious Philly sandwich is not rocket science, but it does require some skill and attention to detail. By choosing the right ingredients and following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a sandwich that is sure to please even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just a fan of the sandwich, this guide will help you make the perfect Philly sandwich every time.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Steak | 1 pound |
| Cheese | 1 cup |
| Onions | 1 cup |
| Rolls | 4 |
By following this guide, you’ll be able to create a delicious Philly sandwich that’s sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious taste of Philadelphia!
What is a Philly Sandwich?
A Philly sandwich, also known as a Philadelphia cheesesteak, is a popular American 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 Philly sandwich has a rich history, dating back to the 1930s when it was first created by a hot dog vendor in Philadelphia. Over time, the sandwich gained popularity and spread throughout the United States, with various variations and interpretations emerging. Today, the Philly sandwich remains a beloved classic, enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.
What type of meat is best for a Philly Sandwich?
The best type of meat for a Philly sandwich is thinly sliced beefsteak, preferably ribeye or top round. These cuts of meat are tender, flavorful, and have a good balance of fat and lean meat, which makes them ideal for sautéing and serving on a hoagie roll.
When selecting the meat, look for slices that are about 1/4 inch thick and have a good marbling of fat throughout. This will ensure that the meat stays juicy and flavorful when cooked. You can also use other types of meat, such as chicken or pork, but beefsteak is the traditional and most popular choice for a Philly sandwich.
What cheese is best for a Philly Sandwich?
The best cheese for a Philly sandwich is a matter of personal preference, but the most traditional and popular options are Cheez Whiz, provolone, and mozzarella. Cheez Whiz is a classic choice, as it melts well and adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the sandwich.
Provolone and mozzarella are also popular choices, as they melt well and add a rich, buttery flavor to the sandwich. You can also use other types of cheese, such as cheddar or American, but Cheez Whiz, provolone, and mozzarella are the most traditional and widely used options.
How do I cook the meat for a Philly Sandwich?
To cook the meat for a Philly sandwich, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced meat and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat, and cook it to at least 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 155°F for medium-well or well-done. Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly and serving it on a hoagie roll.
Can I add other toppings to a Philly Sandwich?
Yes, you can add other toppings to a Philly sandwich to suit your taste preferences. Some popular toppings include sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and hot peppers. You can also add condiments, such as ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise, to add extra flavor to the sandwich.
Other toppings you might consider adding include bacon, ham, or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or zucchini. However, be careful not to overload the sandwich with too many toppings, as this can make it difficult to eat and may overpower the flavor of the meat and cheese.
How do I assemble a Philly Sandwich?
To assemble a Philly sandwich, start by slicing the cooked meat thinly against the grain. Then, slice the hoagie roll in half and place it under the broiler for a few minutes to toast it lightly.
Once the roll is toasted, spread a layer of cheese on the bottom half of the roll, followed by a layer of meat, and then any additional toppings you like. Place the top half of the roll on the sandwich and serve it immediately, while the cheese is still melted and the meat is still hot.
Can I make a Philly Sandwich in advance?
While it’s possible to make a Philly sandwich in advance, it’s best to assemble and serve it immediately for optimal flavor and texture. However, you can prepare some of the components in advance, such as slicing the meat and cheese, and sautéing the onions and bell peppers.
If you need to make a Philly sandwich in advance, consider assembling the sandwich just before serving, or keeping the components separate and assembling the sandwich just before serving. This will help ensure that the sandwich stays fresh and flavorful, and that the cheese stays melted and the meat stays hot.